The Ford Flex is offered in SE, SEL and Limited models. Base SE models are front-wheel drive, while SEL and Limited models have a choice between front- and all-wheel drive. At the top of the lineup is the all-wheel-drive-only Limited EcoBoost model.
Most of the Flex lineup is powered by a 3.5L V6 engine that makes 287 hp and 254 pound-feet of torque. The top-of-the-line Limited EcoBoost model instead has a 3.5L turbocharged V6, making 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque--essentially the output of a V8. Both engines are hooked up to a smooth-shifting and responsive 6-speed automatic transmission. Models with the base engine and front-wheel drive return 18 mpg city, 25 highway, while the top EcoBoost model returns 16/23 mpg.
The Flex shares some of its underpinnings with the Ford Taurus sedan, and it drives more like a car than a truck, even though it does have the somewhat taller seating position of a utility vehicle. A round of improvements last year brought better-responding electric power steering, along with improved braking and brake-pedal feel--as well as improved noise insulation. The Flex also comes with Torque Vectoring Control and Curve Control technology, imitating the effect of a limited-slip differential and making cornering feel more responsive.
The Flex's big and boxy exterior pays off inside, with three rows of seating, including a rearmost row that's doable for adults. The interior features two seats in each row, for a comfortable capacity of six. Additionally, the second and third rows can fold, for a total of 83 cubic feet of space behind the front seats.
Optional features of note include inflatable second-row seat belts, adaptive cruise control with collision warning and brake support, and the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert--a system that might help you avoid accidents in the first place.
Also available is MyFord Touch, a touch-screen-based system that helps connect smartphones and media devices and serves as a go-to-point for media, climate controls, navigation, and other vehicle controls. Most tasks can be performed several different ways--by using the screen menus, steering-wheel buttons and voice controls.
Standard equipment on the base SE includes SecuriLock keyless entry, air conditioning, cruise control, tilt/telescopic steering-wheel adjustment, a 6-speaker sound system, steering-wheel audio controls, Bluetooth and Sync, a USB input, back-up camera and multi-purpose MyFord display. SEL models step up to fog lamps, 18-inch painted alloy wheels, black heated folding side mirrors, bright stainless trim, dual-zone climate control, a universal garage-door opener and MyFord Touch. The Limited piles on more luxuries, with 19-inch painted aluminum wheels, HID headlamps, a satin aluminum grille, body-color mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, chrome door handles, a power liftgate, voice-operated navigation, heated perforated leather seats, remote start, power-adjustable pedals and 17-speaker premium Sony sound with HD Radio.
An Appearance Package available on either Limited or SEL models spruces up the look even more, with a 2-tone black roof and black mirrors, plus 20-inch machined alloy wheels, unique door-trim panels, leather seats and other upgrades.
Boxy Exterior Style Is Unique
Spacious, Passenger-friendly Interior
Smooth Ride
Handles Like A Big Sedan
Responsive EcoBoost Powertrain
All-weather All-wheel Drive
The Ford Flex enters into no significant changes for 2016, save for a standard back-up camera on all trims.
The 2016 Ford Flex remains an excellent choice for those who lament the absence of large station wagons on the market, yet want something far more stylish than truck-like SUVs or look-alike crossover vehicles. It drives responsively, rides smoothly and quietly and is a great highway vehicle. Plus, the Flex's boxy shape makes it one of the most spacious vehicles inside, especially from a passenger standpoint. Consider its excellent safety ratings and standout active-safety features and it makes a lot of sense from a family standpoint-- making a luxurious minivan alternative, too.
