The minivan is dead, and the SUV is on life-support. With that in mind, Ford calls its 2010 Flex a CUV (Crossover Utility Vehicle), otherwise known as a full-size crossover - something previously known as a “wagon.” Available in three trim levels - SE, SEL and Limited, with the SEL and Limited trims available with front- or all-wheel-drive - the four-door 2010 Ford Flex offers seating for up to seven passengers. With an optional twin-turbocharged engine, funky box design, and unique features like a four-panel glass roof, Ford is doing its best to inject some sex into what could be a boring entry.
The base engine for the Flex is a 262-hp, 3.5-liter Duratec V6, an engine that was named one of Ward’s 10 Best in 2007. Mated to a six-speed automatic, the naturally aspirated V6 manages EPA estimates of 19/24 mpg. For another option, Ford upgrades the 3.5-liter V6 with direct fuel injection and a twin-turbo setup for 355 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque - this engine is dubbed the EcoBoost.
Available in AWD SEL and Limited trims, the EcoBoost still manages a wildly impressive EPA estimate of 18/22, a small penalty for almost 100 extra horses. The use of the twin-turbo setup, combined with direct fuel injection, is supposed to eliminate the lag commonly found with turbocharged engines. The EcoBoost comes with a six-speed automatic with manual-shift capability.
The Flex seats seven passengers with a second-row split bench or six with the optional second-row buckets. 17-inch alloy wheels are standard on the SE, while the SEL and Limited trims get 18-inch alloys and 19-inch polished alloys, respectively. EcoBoost-equipped versions enjoy 20-inch alloys, with unique rims on the Limited trim, one of the only visual cues to its extra power. The Flex has several interesting options available, including a dual-screen DVD entertainment system, a refrigerator unit, and a tow package with a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 pounds.
Four-wheel antilock disc brakes come with an anti-skid system with rollover sensors, and you’ll also get a tire pressure monitor regardless of wheel size. A rear-obstacle detection system is also included, along with wiper-activated headlights, dual front airbags, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags with rollover deployment.
By Michael Perkins
