Either you like it, or you don't--the styling of the 2010 Flex is quite polarizing, to be sure. While that may be the case, all can agree it's big on utility--and especially power--when it's packing the optional 3.5 Liter, twin-turbo charged 355 horsepower Ecoboost V6 engine under the hood.
To be fair, I don't particular like the styling of the Flex. To me, it worked much better as the higher-riding Ford Fairlane concept several years back. It simply looks better sitting higher off the ground. Now that I have that out of the way, I'll tell you the things I do like about it--which is actually a lot.
Back to the Ecoboost: what a blast! It's a smooth, gutsy power plant with plenty of muscle to get you where you need to go--and quickly. That's very impressive for a 4800 pound vehicle. The standard 3.5 Liter V6 touts 262 horsepower, but I didn't drive a Flex with that engine. However, based on the 2010 Taurus Limited I drove with the same engine (I'll feature that in an upcoming review), that weaker engine seriously lacks power in comparison to the Ecoboost V6.
The smooth six-speed automatic transmission (with paddle shifters) works well with the Ecoboost engine, too. Braking was decent--it could have been better, but decent. For people wanting a vehicle with high fuel economy, they may skip the Ecoboost Flex: the EPA ratings for city/highway driving: 16/22 mpg--not so good. In spite of its name, the Ecoboost could probably use some more economy. That's the price you'll have to pay for its strong rush of horsepower, though.
The Flex has comfortable seats, lots of leg and head room (excellent overall interior room, I must say), and good ergonomics. The dash seems generally well laid out. In fact, the interior is impressive--which shows just how far Ford has progressed the last several years. The quality--total fit and finish--is much better than Fords of old.
Other goodies include: a push-button ignition starter, the Microsoft SYNC system, heated seats and mirrors, BLIS mirror system (blind spot information system), a navigation system with rear backup camera, ambient lighting, moon roof, three-row seating (with rear climate controls), lots of cup holders and great outward visibility from all sides.
It sum it up, I was surprised how much I liked the 2010 Ford Flex SEL. Its exterior styling may leave a lot to be desired (its cousin--the Lincoln MKT--is less attractive) and the fuel economy isn't the best--but for those buyers who can get past those shortcomings, they will be rewarded with one heck of a crossover utility vehicle.
The Car Exam Grade: B+
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