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Ford Flex - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 Ford Flex ranks 5 out of 27 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.

Introduced in 2009, the Flex is Ford's largest crossover yet. Test drivers are already calling this young retro-styled SUV a great alternative for families who want minivan features but not minivan style.

For 2010, the Flex gets a new engine with more power. The AWD SEL and Limited models are available with an "EcoBoost" turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that makes 355 horsepower. "The new EcoBoost engine will hopefully be a winner; its output numbers certainly look favorable next to one of our favorite twin-turbo sixes, the 300-hp, 3.0-liter inline unit from BMW," says Car and Driver.

Though it's still a young model, the Flex has already racked up several honors. The 2010 Flex is one of Edmunds' Editors Most Wanted picks and one of 10 Automobile Magazine All Stars (for the second year straight). Last year's debut model was one of Road & Travel's top three nominees for 2009 International Car of the Year. 

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.

• "Unlike recently introduced Fords that were long on function and short on style, Flex has both, in spades. While styling is subjective, Flex's spacious cabin and cargo area meet high objective standards. Add to the mix good handling and sufficient power and you have a people mover that merits serious consideration in this class." - Consumer Guide
• "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
• "Reading between the lines, or maybe between the grooves, the new Ford Flex has 'road trip' written all over it." -- AutoWeek
• "Overall, the Flex is an impressive package. It takes the quirky, modern designs of the Mini Cooper and Scion xB, then manages to squeeze six or seven people (two interiors will be offered) inside the thing with nearly endless headroom." -- Automobile Magazine
• "In combination, the pleasant interior, roominess, handling, towing capacity, gadgets and EcoBoost make the Flex a thumbs-up proposition. And that's before you throw the fridge in the back seat, which apparently 52% of buyers order. Ford pitches the Flex at the full-sized SUV set, and unless you need the extra room, it's an easy checklist to review; what you gain in power and space with most full-sized SUVs you lose on price and fuel economy." -- Autoblog

Flex Performance - 7.8 (Good)

Reviewers praise the Flex's powerful V6 engine and smooth ride. With the addition of the new EcoBoost engine, acceleration should improve even more. However, the driving experience is still a bit too predictable for most reviewers. Of the base engine (which is unchanged for 2010), Car and Driver writes: "Although looking at a Flex might get people excited, driving it won't. With its 262-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 with 248 pound-feet of torque, it is far from slow, but it's also far from fun." Read More

Flex Exterior - 8.4 (Very Good)

The 2010 Ford Flex's retro-inspired exterior is especially distinctive. "The ribbed doors recall classic American 'woodie' station wagons, but not in a cheesy, retro sort of way," writes Automobile Magazine. "The roof -- available in white or silver -- is very cool, and standard eighteen inch wheels (with nineteens optional) finish the package." Read More

Flex Interior - 8.3 (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 long list of options. "The cabin presents well, with most hard plastic surfaces hidden from view," says Consumer Guide. "Some testers find the mixture of textures and colors less than tasteful." 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 will likely come with Ford's five-year/60,000 mile powertrain warranty. Read More