2010 Ford Flex
- 2009 Ford Flex
- Used Ford Flex
Based on analysis of 42 Flex reviews and test drives.
Ford Flex - What the Auto Press Says
The 2010 Ford Flex ranks 3 out of 26 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 42 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Flex, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The retro-styled Ford Flex is a great alternative for families who want minivan features without minivan style. Its unique exterior design, powerful engine options and spacious third-row seat make it a winner.
For 2010, the seven-passenger Flex becomes an even more attractive option with an available EcoBoost turbocharged engine. The new engine, optional for all-wheel-drive SEL and Limited models, pumps out the power of a V8 and still offers the fuel economy of a V6. Reviewers love the engine and say it makes the generally ho-hum Flex more fun to drive. However, since the EcoBoost is only available on higher trims and requires all-wheel drive, it’s quite an expensive option – in fact, it adds a whopping $11,500 to the Flex’s base price.
If you don’t opt for EcoBoost, the Flex is priced about average for its class, and its unique combination of elements makes it a great value. No other SUV, minivan or wagon looks nearly as cool or packs in so many family-friendly features. It offers an optional second-row refrigerated console, a dual-headrest DVD entertainment system, and a reclining and power-folding second row. In fact, the Flex’s only real weakness is that it doesn’t offer as much cargo space as a minivan.
The Flex has racked up several honors in its relatively short time on the market. The 2010 model is one of Edmunds' Editors Most Wanted picks and one of Automobile Magazine’s All Stars (for the second year straight). Last year's debut model was one of Road & Travel's nominees for 2009 International Car of the Year.
Other SUVs to Consider
If you can do without the Flex’s unique styling – after all, no SUV can match it – check out the Chevy Traverse. It costs a few hundred dollars more than the Flex, but it offers comparable fuel economy with a lot more cargo space and seating for eight. Like the Flex, it comes with an especially spacious third row. If you need the extra cargo space, the Traverse is a safe bet.
The other obvious choice is indeed a minivan – the well-reviewed Honda Odyssey. It doesn’t have the Flex’s cool looks, but it costs about $2,000 less and offers seating for up to eight along with even more cargo space than the Traverse. However, like the Traverse, it doesn’t improve upon the Flex’s fuel economy and won’t be as fun to drive or as powerful.
Details: Ford Flex
The major change for 2010 is the optional EcoBoost engine. In addition, base models get Ford’s SYNC infotainment system and a power-folding second-row bench as standard equipment, and leather upholstery as optional. The Flex comes standard with front-wheel drive, while the higher trim levels have optional all-wheel drive. It comes in several trims -- the base SE, SEL and top-of-the-line Limited. Be sure to check out current Ford deals that may be available on a new Flex.
- "Overall, the 2010 Ford Flex is a vehicle with few faults. Even if you're not wild about its hip-to-be-square styling, there's no denying its extensive capabilities as a practical family vehicle.” -- Edmunds
- "EcoBoost makes the Flex an attractive option for SUV shoppers accustomed to V-8 performance, even if they don't need V-8 capabilities. I suspect a lot of those shoppers will settle for a run-of-the-mill V-6 crossover, but for those who still want yesteryear's burly performance, Ford has a solution worth looking into." -- Cars.com
- "On the surface there's little in the way of aesthetic changes to the boxy sexy design of the 2010 Ford Flex, but the addition of Ford's much ballyhooed 3.5-Liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 below the surface offers a compelling reason for buyers in the market to give the Flex a second look." -- Jalopnik
- "The bottom line: Optioned up right, the 2010 Ford Flex SEL with EcoBoost impresses as a tech cruiser, and can haul around plenty of people or cargo in unique style.” -- CNET
- "We don't generally get excited about crossovers, but Ford's high-performance, decent value Flex pushes all the right buttons for enthusiasts, recreational users and families alike." -- Left Lane News
Flex Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)
Reviewers praise the Flex's powerful V6 engine and smooth ride. With the addition of the new EcoBoost engine, the Flex is even more powerful – and doesn’t suffer much in the way of fuel economy. However, the driving experience is still a bit too predictable for most reviewers. Read More
Flex Exterior - 8.2 (Very Good)
The 2010 Ford Flex's retro-inspired exterior is especially distinctive. In fact, it looks like nothing else on the road – and reviewers can’t get enough of it. Read More
Flex Interior - 8.4 (Very Good)
The 2010 Ford Flex can seat up to seven in a versatile, comfortable cabin. Standout features are the flat-folding seats, spacious third row and family-friendly options such as a second-row refrigerated console. Read More
Flex Safety - 9.9 (Excellent)
The federal government gives the 2010 Flex excellent scores in crash tests. The Flex comes with standard Roll Stability Control and three-row side and side-curtain air bags. Read More
Flex Reliability - 6.0 (Mediocre)
The 2010 Ford Flex reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Flex comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. Read More
