Ford Flex SUV Review


SUV Reviewer

The 2012 Ford Flex SUV is a vehicle that will completely appeal to some while being completely unappealing to others. The styling gives it the extra space that accommodates a host of different needs. The flexibility and uniqueness of the Ford Flex SUV gives it three rows of seating in a roomy cabin that is comfortable all the way through the third row. It handles well, is responsive behind the wheel, and can be optioned in the EcoBoost model, which uses technology to deliver the power of a V6 engine with the fuel consumption of the smaller, less powerful four cylinder.

The seven passenger Ford Flex SUV is a full sized crossover SUV that has been redesigned to fit into a smaller area. This gives the vehicle the look of a boxy, almost trendy styling. What this truly does is provide a different dynamic for the interior, including the choice of Captain's chairs for the second row of seats.

The Ford Flex SUV is equipped with a range of technological features, including Ford's Sync element for offering voice control over the electronics. It also has the automatic parking feature which Ford fanatics truly appreciate. The eye scans for the appropriate parallel parking space and then takes over the steering to get you into the space snugly. You remain in control of the gas and brake pedals. Those who intend to use their Ford Flex SUV for trips, vacations, and long weekends will be happy to know there is, of course, a twin screen entertainment package. What makes this vehicle unique is that it also offers an optional refrigerator for the second row.

The base model will offer 17 inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, cruise control, rear parking sensors, automatic headlights, rear privacy glass, foglights, six way power adjustable front seating, manual lumbar adjustment for the front seats, leather encased steering wheel, tilt steering, telescoping steering column, second row seating with 60/40 split and convenient third row access through the power flip feature, and a sound system with CD player, auxiliary jack, and six speakers. The Ford Flex SUV standard list is actually rather extensive.

The standard engine on the 2012 Ford Flex SUV is the 3.5 liter V6. The 262 horsepower and 248 pounds of torque are well complimented by the six speed automatic transmission, as well as the standard front wheel drive. Buyers have the option to upgrade, though the standard engine gives the Flex enough power to go from 0 to 60 in 8.9 seconds.

Fuel efficiency for the Ford Flex SUV is not as competitive as some full size crossover SUVs. Combined driving figures out to about 19 miles to the gallon. The 19 city miles to the gallon and 24 highway miles to the gallon are not the worst efficiency, but the consumer is starting to demand (and receive) better.

With 83 cubic feet of cargo space and easy on the hands interior features, easy third row access, real seating for real adults in all three rows, and an upscale interior theme the Flex is an impressive package with a great interior space. If you load it with the optional entertainment features, you and the family can be on the road without a complaint to he heard.