New Arrivals - Ford Flex

Ford Flex

 

Exerpts from Canadian Driver and Ford.ca 

The Ford Flex has arrived as an interesting, appealing, clever and fresh take on the crossover class.  The key exterior design elements - its grooved side panels, the aluminum-look hatch, the straight lines, wrap-around lights, and prominent grille - are completely integrated and look great.

The exuberent exterior is not let down by the interior.  Open the door and you're immediately drawn into the detail and quality of its component parts.  The look and feel of the surfaces and materials, the operation of its controls and the availability of an unexpected array of amenities (like a compressor-driven fridge between the seats) speak to a determined effort on the part of Ford designers to get it right.

And, the powertrain and ride are more than adequate.  Power is just fine, the suspension is sporty but comfortable, and driving is engaging but relaxing.

So what is a Flex?  It's six or seven passenger crossover built on an extended (by 12.5 cm) Taurus/Freestyle platform.  Because of the extra length, occupants in its three-row seating have plenty of legroom in all positions, and especially in the second row (where you'll find available Rolls-Royce style carpeted foot rests;  its that spacious).  The rear seat folds into the floor when not required, significantly expanding the cargo area.

It's kind of an SUV from the outside (although lower, wider and cooler than you may expect), with the space and functionality of a minivan inside.  If you'd like to get out of a minivan, but want the room and practicality in a more stylish package, the Flex will be an obvious option.  Or if you want a fresh take on an SUV-style vehicle that drives like a car, and doesn't use as much fuel as a truck, the Flex will also work.  It will tow 4,500 pounds, as well, so you can easily haul your boat or trailer.

Flex's 265 horsepower is supplied by Ford's 3.5 litre Duratec V6 engine (as found in the Ford Edge), connected to a six-speed automatic transmission.  Two versions - SEL and Limited - are offered, in either two-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configurations.  Standard equipment is very generous, and includes Ford's AdvanceTrac vheicle stability control, side curtain airbags, dual zone automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, tilt steering column, heated power mirrors, heated seats, power driver's seat and Sirius satellite radio.  Second row seating consists of a choice between two bucket seats or a bench seat (no charge option).

The Limited version includes leather seating surfaces on the first two rows, 19-inch alloy wheels (SEL receives 18-inch alloys), power adjustable pedals, HID headlamps, power liftgate, Sony audio, and chrome exterior trim.

Optional extras include the contrasting white or silver roof, navigation system with rear backup camera, panorama sunroof, DVD entertainment, remote start, chrome roof rails, SYNC media system, and 20-inch wheels.

Notable Flex features are sills that are "built into" the base of the doors, which make it easier to enter and exit the vehicle, the black A-, B-, and C-pillars, and tinted glass which gives the impression that the roof is floating above the vehicle, a touch-pad that locks and unlocks the doors, and the fridge - very handy on a long trip.