In that sense, the most impressive part of this Ford is the strain-free powertrain. Although the C-Max uses a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and a relatively small engine (2.0-liter four cylinder with 141 horsepower), it was able to accelerate pretty easily in urban traffic or on moderately steep grades in the mountains surrounding Los Angeles. This isn’t the most demanding test possible, but frankly it is a tougher test than that presented by 90 percent of suburban US driving.
