2010 Ford Flex: Road Test
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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 | 4.6 |
No powerhouse with the 262-horsepower 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. Turbo lag is minimal at worst.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 3.7 |
In Consumer Guide testing a 2WD Flex averaged 16.1 mpg in mostly city driving. A test AWD model with the 262-horsepower V6 averaged 19.8 in mostly highway driving. EcoBoost models averaged 15.8-16.6 mpg in mostly city driving. These results are fairly impressive given Flex's size, heft, and overall performance, especially in comparison to similar V8-powered midsize and large SUVs. The 262-horsepower 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 | 4.9 |
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 | 4.1 |
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. For a vehicle with such large dimensions, Flex has a surprisingly tidy turning radius.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.1 |
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 | 5.6 |
Big gauges are clearly marked and easy to read. Most controls are handy, large, and easy to find. The 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 | 5 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 6.4 |
A defining asset. Ample space for drivers of any size on very supportive seats. Large door openings and a low step-in height 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 | 5.5 |
With bench or bucket seats, Flex is generally adult friendly in back, as well. Larger riders in the 2nd row will have limited knee clearance behind a front passenger of similar size. Headroom is ample, though center passengers on the standard bench seat will have to contend with an awkward floor hump. The 3rd row is no penalty box for adults under 5-foot-8.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 7.5 |
The cargo area is vast. The load floor is completely flat with the seat backs folded, but collapsing the seats requires more steps and stretching than in most SUVs. In-cabin storage includes a roomy center console and small glove box.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 8 | 6 | 5.3 |
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 our Recommended approval.
Total Score
| 2WD SEL | AWD Limited | SEL EcoBoost | Limited EcoBoost w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 77 | 76 | 79 | 77 | 57.7 |
Total Score: 77
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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