2017 Ford C-Max Energi

Ford’s C-Max Energi is a lone wolf in a class of small wagons and vans that includes cars like the Kia Rondo and Mazda5, two models that have been around longer and are better known among shoppers.

But the Energi stands out for its plug-in hybrid powertrain of a 2.0L gas engine and electric motor, which is similar to that in the C-Max Hybrid (covered in its own buyer’s guide entry) but can crank out a few extra horses, for a total of 195, thanks to a charge-depleting mode.

New this year is updated styling that includes a new grille, headlights and taillights, and a C-Max-first Titanium trim (replacing last year’s SEL model) many Ford owners will recognize from other of the company’s model lines.

The Energi’s drive differs little from that of its Hybrid sibling, aside from the fact it can motor along on electricity alone for something like 30 km on a full charge of its battery. Sharp handling and a grown-up feel belie the C-Max’s compact size, and the Energi feels a little more mature in electric mode thanks to a lack of noise and vibration from the inert gas engine. Once the battery runs out, the engine kicks in and the car carries on as long as the fuel in the tank will take it.

Practically-speaking, our only complaint about the C-Max is that the battery lives under the cargo area floor and steals some trunk space. There’s also no seven-seat option here or in the Hybrid model, which puts this car at a slight disadvantage relative to its direct competitors, which both offer three rows of seating.

Natural Resources Canada fuel consumption ratings are 5.8/6.5 on a combination of gasoline and electricity, and 2.7Le on electricity alone.

Standard features in the C-Max Energi SE trim ($29,828) include 17-inch wheels, six-way driver and four-way passenger manual front seat adjustments, cloth upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, six-speaker stereo with SYNC infotainment system, a 110-volt power outlet and two 12-volt outlets, cruise control, leather-trimmed shifter and tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel and keyless entry.

The new Titanium ($34,458) gets a unique 17-inch wheel design, leather seats and a 10-way power front passenger seat with lumbar. Among the available options is a foot-operated hands-free tailgate.