2014 Ford C-Max Energi Real-World Cargo Space

The two versions of Ford’s C-Max — the Hybrid and Energi plug-in hybrid — drive similarly but the Energi sets itself apart with its ability to drive an EPA-estimated 20 miles on electric power alone. The Energi’s extra stamina comes from a larger lithium-ion battery stuffed in the cargo area that unfortunately, eats into cargo volume; the resulting space is much smaller than the hybrid version’s.

Related: 2014 Ford C-Max Energi Review

Cars.com reviewer Aaron Bragman says in his review that “The C-Max Energi replaces the normal hybrid’s 1.4-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack with a much larger, 7.6-kwh battery in the cargo area, which does indeed cut into the rear storage area. It also eliminates the regular C-Max’s flat floor when the rear seats are folded.”

The C-Max’s cargo volume decreases from the Hybrid model’s 24.5 cubic feet to 19.2 cubic feet behind the backseat of the C-Max Energi. Below, see how well common items fit in the C-Max Engergi’s cargo area.

Cars.com photos by Evan Sears