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- Highs Spacious interior, powerful optional turbocharged V-6, shape that stands out in a crowd.
- Lows Poor fuel economy, outdated cabin, base SE trim is light on standard features.
- Verdict While it’s showing its age, the Flex remains a roomy and esoteric choice among wagons, minivans, and SUVs.
Overview
The Ford Flex has a spacious cabin and boxy exterior that continues to stand out in a crowded field of more sedately styled SUVs. Thanks to its lower wagon-like stance, the Flex doesn’t require a leap to get inside. The cargo bay’s load floor also doesn’t require a major lift to get hefty luggage onboard. There are two choices of engine, including a twin-turbo V-6 that comes standard with all-wheel drive. While it can be outfitted with all the mod-cons that car shoppers want, the Flex’s base trim is stingy when it comes to standard features. And if mileage is a sticking point, know that the Flex has a voracious appetite for fuel.
What's New for 2018?
The funky Flex rolls into the 2018 model year with no notable mechanical or cosmetic updates compared to the 2017 version.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- SE: $31,280
- SEL: $33,990
- Limited: $39,490
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
In its base configuration, the Flex comes with a 3.5-liter V-6 engine paired to a six-speed automatic transmission that sends 287 horsepower to the front wheels. All-wheel drive is optional. Available only in the Limited trim, a twin-turbocharged version of this same V-6 engine delivers 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque to all four wheels. This gives the Flex a real turn of speed, with the added benefit that its low stance (at least compared to more traditional SUVs) means this seven-passenger machine doesn’t feel tippy or unwieldy during hard cornering.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
At maximum capacity with a second-row bench seat, the Flex has room for seven. Available captain’s chairs drop headcount to six, though they make accessing the third row much easier. Better still, there’s room for adults in all three rows. The cabin, while outdated compared to rivals, can be decked out with niceties like heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, leather upholstery, and a handy power-folding third row. The base Flex SE is spartan, however, so it's worthwhile to upgrade to higher trims that add more comfort and safety features, wood and metal trim, a sunroof, and an upgraded infotainment system.
Infotainment and Connectivity
In an increasing rarity for the automotive world, the base Flex SE does without a touchscreen whatsoever. Instead, it's equipped with a small 4.2-inch display that includes basics like Bluetooth, one USB port, an auxiliary input, and a six-speaker stereo with CD player. Higher trims and options add the Ford Sync 3 system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, an extra USB port, and a 12-speaker Sony audio system with satellite radio. While the base infotainment system is outdated and clunky, the Sync 3 touchscreen is clear, easy to use, and on par with the Flex's rivals.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
For more information about the Ford Flex’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
