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Overview
The funky 2019 Flex is Ford's answer to those seeking a modern version of the old-school station wagon. It's an aging but still appealing SUV in a sea of similarly shaped family haulers, including the equally spacious Ford Explorer.
Engines, Ride, and Handling
Two V-6 engines are offered in the Ford Flex, both displacing 3.5 liters and mated to a six-speed automatic. The base engine makes 287 horsepower and can be had with either front- or all-wheel drive. The upscale Limited trim offers an optional twin-turbo V-6 that cranks out a stout 365 horsepower and comes standard with all-wheel drive. At our test track, the turbocharged Limited hustled to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. Because it's more hunkered down than a traditional SUV, the Flex offers a more carlike driving experience.
Interior and Technology
The Flex's cabin can be equipped with plenty of luxuries but very few are standard. For example, the base SE model doesn't even come with touchscreen infotainment. Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system comes on midrange SEL and top-spec Limited models; it includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability. Three rows of seats are standard and the Flex can accommodate seven passengers with room to spare. With both rows of the rear seats folded flat, the Flex is a cargo-hauling champ with a large, flat load floor. Adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and a 12-speaker Sony audio system are optional extras, but more modern rivals offer more advanced driver-assistance features.
