2009 Ford Flex: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Ford Flex is an all-new midsize SUV. This boxy 4-door wagon shares some of its basic design with Ford's Edge and Taurus X crossover SUVs and is available in three trim levels: base SE, midlevel SEL, and top-line Limited. All trim levels come with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available on the SEL and Limited. Flex is distinguished not only by its squared-off shape but by contrasting roof and body colors and use of exterior chrome accents. Flex seats either six or seven on three rows of seats. Power comes from a 262-hp 3.5-liter V6 mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Some of Flex's other features include a rearview camera, power liftgate, voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic and weather updates, four-panel glass roof, and refrigerated center console. Other available features include Ford's Sync, which is a voice-activated system that controls some cell phone and MP3 player functions, and a capless fuel filler.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to eight-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buy choices are the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, GMC Acadia, Mazda CX-9, and Saturn Outlook. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Toyota Highlander.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Traverse, Dodge Journey, Ford Flex, Kia Borrego, Nissan Murano, and Toyota Venza. The Hummer H3 adds a crew-cab pickup truck bodystyle for 2009, while the Dodge Durango adds a gas/electric hybrid model.