2012 Ford Flex

The 2012 Ford Flex is targeted for families that want to have a midsize SUV that is affordable.

It is a good alternative to a minivan with its spacious cabin.

With its above average performance, families can surely have one SUV with great versatility.

Engine

The Flex comes with a standard V6 3.5 liter engine that delivers 262 horsepower and 248 lbs/ft of torque. It is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. What is surprising about what Ford did to the Flex is that they give the option of the EcoBoost, a 3.5 liter V6 twin turbocharged engine.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Crossover Base Price: $29,465.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.6 gallons (70 liters) MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 201.8 in. (512.5 cm) Wheel Base: 117.9 in. (299.5 cm)
Height: 68 in. (172.7 cm) Width: 75.9 in. (192.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 4471 lbs (2028 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 20.0 cu ft Maximum Seating: 7 people
Performance
Engine: 3.5L Duratec V6 DOHC Compression Ratio: 10.3: 1
Horsepower: 262 HP Max RPM: 6250 RPM
Torque: 248 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Auto
Max Towing Capacity: 4500 lbs (2041 kgs)* Maximum Speed: NA

*With Towing Package

Available Trims & Engine
Option:SEL MSRP: $32,100; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:Limited MSRP: $35,765; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:Titanium MSRP: $38,260; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy

It brings 355 horsepower and 350 lbs/ft of torque. Flex’s standard engine is more than enough to sustain the needs of the family; the additional power that the EcoBoost gives is just astounding. In fact, it is what the media and the market is excited about.

Performance

When the power provided by the EcoBoost is combined with power shifters, the Flex delivers a performance that is very sporty; which is very rare for its class. However, the EcoBoost is only available for the Titanium and the Limited trims.

That means if you want to enjoy the power that the EcoBoost brings, you must be willing to spend a little extra. There are reports from reviewers and car owners that driving the standard V6 is competent but boring.

Exterior

The 2012 Flex truly looks big from the outside and it effortlessly tells the beholder that it can carry a family well. It has a box style with straight lines. Those who go after organic curves and sporty lines may shy away from the Flex but those who love the classics will surely become a fan of the Flex at first sight.

Interior

The interior of the Flex is believed to be one of the largest in its class. It has a third row that can fit adults, has a better finish and is equipped with all the standard features. The Flex can seat seven persons unless the second row is converted into two captain’s chairs.

It has two LATCH connectors in the second row and one in the third row. The seats of the Flex are also considered as among the most comfortable in its group.

With all seats in use, the Flex can hold up to 20 cubic feet of cargo. Folding the third row will let you have 43.2 and stowing the second row will give you 83.2.

Safety

So far, the Flex has only been subjected to rollover tests by the federal government but nevertheless scored 4 out of 5 stars. It is a Top Safety Pick for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for scoring “good” in all its crash tests.

Reliability

The 2012 Flex comes with the standard 3-year warranty and a 5-year powertrain warranty. The reliability is average as most of the vehicles in its class provide the same.

Pros

The Flex comes with a genuine three rows and a very spacious cabin. It provides an excellent ride and offers good amount of safety features. Its styling is unique.

Cons

The EcoBoost and the coolest features are too expensive and the cargo space is a midget compared to its competitors.

Verdict

With its power, comfort and versatility, the 2012 Ford Flex is a good choice when it comes to large crossovers.

Competition

The segment shared by the Flex include the Honda Pilot (MSRP $31,470; 18 city / 25 hwy), Chevrolet Traverse (MSRP $29,510; 17 city / 24 hwy), and the base Buick Enclave (MSRP $36,350; 17 city / 24 hwy).

Overall Rating
84 out of 100

What others say:

“It looks quirky, but there’s nothing unconventional about the charming 2012 Ford Flex when it comes to space, comfort, and ride.”Car Connection

“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.”Consumer Guide

“The 2012 Ford Flex is not your typical 7-passenger CUV, at least not if looks count for anything. Where most CUVs attempt to mirror SUVs, the Flex takes a decidedly different approach.”KBB

“Spacious and versatile cabin with genuine three-row space; refined ride; excellent safety scores; high-tech features; turbocharged engine option; unique styling.”Edmunds

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