The Ford C-MAX 2.0 (145/126 hp) CNG, produced between February 2006 and May 2007, represents a unique offering within the first generation (2003-2010) of Ford’s compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). This variant was specifically designed to cater to the growing European demand for alternative fuel vehicles, offering a bi-fuel capability – running on either gasoline or Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). Positioned as a practical and environmentally conscious option, it aimed to provide a balance between fuel efficiency and everyday usability. The C-MAX, in general, was Ford’s attempt to enter the increasingly popular compact MPV segment, competing with vehicles like the Renault Scenic and Opel/Vauxhall Zafira. This CNG version was primarily a European market offering, reflecting the more developed CNG infrastructure on the continent.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | C-MAX |
| Generation | C-MAX |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (145/126 Hp) CNG |
| Start of production | February, 2006 |
| End of production | May, 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | MPV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10 l/100 km (23.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 176 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (CNG) | 158 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 203 km/h (126.14 mph) |
| Maximum speed (CNG) | 193 km/h |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Power | 145 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.5 Hp/l |
| Power (CNG) | 126 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre (CNG) | 63 Hp/l |
| Torque | 185 Nm @ 4000 rpm (136.45 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | SYDA |
| Engine displacement | 1999 cm3 (121.99 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1620 l (57.21 cu. ft.) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4333 mm (170.59 in.) |
| Width | 1825 mm (71.85 in.) |
| Height | 1601 mm (63.03 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2640 mm (103.94 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine (ICE) drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the C-MAX 2.0 CNG is the SYDA engine, a 1.999-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Ford’s Duratec family, known for its relatively simple and robust design. The SYDA utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel to each cylinder independently. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, operating four valves per cylinder, which aids in efficient combustion and power delivery. When operating on CNG, the engine management system switches to a dedicated CNG fuel map, reducing power output to 126 hp. This reduction is due to the lower energy density of CNG compared to gasoline. The CNG system itself typically involves a separate fuel tank, a pressure regulator, and a CNG injector rail. The five-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option offered with this variant, providing a direct connection between the engine and the front wheels.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0-liter CNG C-MAX offered a driving experience that prioritized practicality and fuel economy over outright performance. With 145 hp on gasoline, acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.3 seconds, which was adequate for everyday driving but not particularly sporty. Switching to CNG reduced power to 126 hp, resulting in slightly slower acceleration. The five-speed manual transmission provided reasonable control, but the gear ratios were tuned for efficiency rather than spirited driving. Compared to the standard 2.0-liter gasoline C-MAX, the CNG version felt noticeably less responsive, especially when fully loaded. Compared to other C-MAX variants, such as the 1.6-liter models, the 2.0 CNG offered more torque, making it better suited for carrying passengers and cargo. However, it lacked the punch of the higher-performance versions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The C-MAX 2.0 CNG was typically offered in a mid-range trim level, often designated as ‘LX’ or a similar designation depending on the specific market. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Safety features included ABS brakes and front airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The focus was on providing a well-equipped, practical vehicle without excessive luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The C-MAX utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned for everyday use, prioritizing comfort over sporty handling. Brakes were disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The CNG variant did not receive any specific chassis or braking upgrades to accommodate the CNG system, as the weight distribution remained relatively similar to the gasoline-powered models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford C-MAX 2.0 CNG was generally well-received in European markets with established CNG infrastructure. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to conventional gasoline vehicles. However, the reduced power output when running on CNG was a common criticism. Compared to the standard 2.0-liter gasoline C-MAX, the CNG version offered comparable fuel economy on gasoline but significantly lower running costs when utilizing CNG. The 1.6-liter gasoline C-MAX offered better fuel economy overall but lacked the power and torque of the 2.0-liter engine. Reliability was generally good, with the SYDA engine proving to be a durable unit.
Legacy
The Ford C-MAX 2.0 CNG represents an early attempt by Ford to offer alternative fuel vehicles to the European market. While production was relatively short-lived, the CNG variant demonstrated Ford’s commitment to exploring alternative fuel technologies. Today, these vehicles are relatively rare, but those that remain are often sought after by environmentally conscious drivers and those looking for a cost-effective means of transportation. The SYDA engine, in general, has a reputation for reliability, and the CNG system, if properly maintained, can provide years of trouble-free service. The C-MAX 2.0 CNG serves as a reminder of a time when CNG was considered a viable alternative to gasoline and diesel fuel.
