2009 Ford Flex Review
MORE: Ford Specs, Comparisons and Prices – Ford Buyers Guide
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HEELS ON WHEELS
By Katrina Ramser
San Francisco Bureau
The Auto Channel
INTRO TO THE FLEX VEHICLE
Ford has revitalized the wagon market with the brand new 6-passenger,
third-row Flex. Reflecting styling cues from a Mini or Scion, the Flex
offers an unconventional – yet completely functional – approach
to family driving.
I drove a 6-passenger 2009 Ford Flex Limited with all-wheel drive and a 262-horespower 3.5-liter V6 engine. The top-of-the-line Limited standouts include xenon headlights, 19-inch wheels, power liftgate, power-adjustable pedals, driver seat memory, leather seating and Ford's Sync multimedia interface. Optional extras are second row heated seats ($870); the vista moonroof ($1,495); navigation system ($2,375); and the white two-tone roof ($395). Total vehicle price came to $42,390.
The Flex stands out as an interesting alternative if you've grown tired or confused at the flooded crossover market. It's hard to identify a competitor for the Flex; so well-deserved kudos to Ford for expanding on a shape that is not only unique, but pioneers how families want to get around.
HEELS ON WHEELS REVIEW CRITERIA
Stylish But Comfortable Results: Comfort experience inside feels more like a really big sedan than a minivan, making the Flex versatile for family or adult outings. Ford interiors – the leather seating, wood accents and user-friendly navigation system – have grown very impressive over the last couple years. I was able to fit six very well, including two car seats for children in 50/50-split third-row bench (however, a point was made the third-row seat belts were tucked in rather tight). Aside of a vista moonroof, there are three additional skylights – two on both sides of the second row and one farther back – but these do not open, most likely due to safety issues. Rear seats fold easily.
Reliability & Safety Factor: The Flex is a new vehicle, equipped with anti-lock brakes and front and rear airbags. The Flex also has Ford's AdvanceTrac with RSC, a stability control system, which helps apply brake pressure and reduces engine power if the vehicle senses the drive is out of control. The IIHS named the Flex a top safety pick for front and side crash tests, along with rear impact (which is what you want for a third-row vehicle). Ford products have always been sited as having somewhat long braking distances.
Cost Issues: The $42,390 price reflects the Limited edition price; even so, the navigation system and vista roof is still priced little high compared to other makers. You're going to pay just as much for a Highlander Limited or Acura MDX, however.
Activity & Performance Ability: Steering was exceptional – smooth, steady, and predictable on windy roads at higher speeds. The vehicle feels pretty roomy inside and it will take some practice using rear-park assist to parallel; however, you soon understand its boxy shape leaves little surprises. All-wheel drive is offered on the Limited and the SEL trims. I thought the turning radius was decent and more than acceptable. Overall, it is a very steady and exceptionally quite drive with excellent safety measures in tack.
The Green Concern: Estimated fuel economy for the Flex is 17-mpg city and 24-mpg highway driving for an average of 19-to-20-mpg, putting this on the same level – or in some cases, better – than most SUVs or crossovers with V6 engines.
FINAL PARTING WORDS
The Flex was an enjoyable, surprising experience on both the comfort and
safety levels. Ford has hit a consumer nerve with the Flex, striking in a
place that should help buyers see the unique shape as not just hi and
classy, but functional and capable.
Katrina's Car Tips For Women Drivers
- Katrina's 2009 Crossover Watch List
- Katrina's 2009 3-Row SUVs and SUVs
- Katrina's 2008 Top 10 Vehicles For Female Drivers
- Katrina's Basic Car Insurance Coverage For Women
- Katrina's Money Saving Car Tips For Women
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MORE: Ford Specs, Comparisons and Prices – Ford Buyers Guide
©2008 Katrina Ramser