I did a test drive on the CMax

I would not dispute your rationale. It is a perfect car for you.

 

In a test drive at highway speeds I was able to get 44mpg. I would compare it most generously to my first drive in a Prius.

 

The one thing I didn't like about the C-max was the turning radius. It was like navigating an aircraft carrier.

 

My wife test drove the C-Max while I rode in it. One shorter drive, one longer (45-60 min) drive.
- Only got a bit under 40mpg.
- Found the gas pedal over-responsive, at least at lower speeds. (But she wasn't unhappy and figured she'd get used to it).
- Liked the ride.
- Not sure on comfort since it was a day with a lot of driving.

She liked the car. If she/we tested it again I'd want to try an Energi since it could cover her commute.
I didn't like the car, because I judge cars by fuel economy and all-electric range.

 

I drove both the Hybrid and Energi C-Max models. The hybrid only returned 38 mpg.
The Energi returned 54 mpg on a 4 hour round trip to lunch in Carmel by the Sea. Needless
to say, I purchased the Energi and love it. I have no problem beating my Prius C mpg numbers
in hybrid mode, not using the EV range. Using the EV range, I get about 28 miles per charge.
My MPGe mileage is currently at 69 mpge and rising