2010 Ford Flex: Road Test
2010 Ford Flex ▼
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- MSRP: $28,550 - $42,065
- Invoice: $26,942 - $38,954
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Our road test for the 2010 Ford Flex includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Ford Flex from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Ford Flex, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Ford Flex help you decide if a 2010 Ford Flex is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 7 | 7 | 4.2 |
No powerhouse with the 262-hp V6, but Flex has adequate muscle to cope with most passing and merging needs, even with a full load of passengers. With the EcoBoost V6, Flex is strong and smooth with noticeably more power for nearly any situation.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.3 |
In Consumer Guide testing a 2WD Flex averaged 16.1 mpg in mostly city driving. A test AWD model averaged 19.8 in mostly highway driving. No opportunity to measure with EcoBoost. The 262-hp V6 uses regular-grade gas. Ford says the EcoBoost V6 is designed to run on regular as well, though the company recommends premium for best performance.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 4.5 |
Major road irregularities are easily absorbed, and Flex is compliant over most road imperfections. EcoBoost models come with specific suspension tuning and low-profile 20-inch tires; these changes have little effect on Flex's ride characteristics.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 3.7 |
Direct steering and controlled body lean in corners give Flex a fairly nimble feel. EcoBoost-equipped models have a specific steering system that is accurate and well weighted. But, some testers find the steering too light in models equipped with the base engine. Brakes feel strong and are generally responsive, but Flex tends to nose dive during aggressive stops.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 4.5 |
The overall sense of refinement is compromised only by modest noise from either engine during acceleration. Any Flex is otherwise quiet, with little wind or road noise penetrating into the cabin.
CONTROLS
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5 |
Big gauges are clearly marked and easy to read. Most controls are handy, large, and easy to find. Available navigation system absorbs only a few audio and climate functions.
DETAILS
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.4 |
The cabin presents well, with most hard plastic surfaces hidden from view. Some testers find the mixture of textures and colors less than tasteful.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 5.7 |
Ample space for the largest drivers on firm supportive seats. Large door openings and a relatively low step-in make for easy entry and exit. Narrow roof pillars allow for decent visibility in all directions. Kudos to Ford for adding a telescopic adjustment to the steering column.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 5 |
Flex is full-size adult friendly in back, as well. Ample headroom and legroom in the second row, though center passengers will have to contend with an awkward floor hump. The 3rd row is no penalty box for adults under 5'8".
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 6.7 |
Cargo area is vast. The load floor is completely flat with the seatbacks folded, but collapsing the seats requires more steps and stretching than in most SUVs. In-cabin storage includes a roomy center console and smallish glove box.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 4.8 |
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. In addition to added muscle, EcoBoost models include other worthwhile mechanical enhancements that only improve Flex's already solid package. Add to the mix good handling and refined behavior and you have a people mover that merits serious consideration in this class.
Total Score
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 74 | 73 | 77 | 76 | 51.8 |
Total Score: 75
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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