2016 Ford Flex has wheeled sophistication

Distinctive and different, the front-wheel-drive Ford Flex is like no other vehicle on the road. Combining impressive space and comfort with upscale features and clever flexibility, Flex delivers a contemporary interior environment full of class-leading technologies. In a world of vehicles that are easy to categorize, Flex is by choice difficult to define and polarizing.

From its planted stance and broad shoulders – flanked by signature side grooves – to its all black greenhouse and distinctive multi-panel Vista Roof, Ford designers have succeeded in creating a provocative vehicle. Capping the horizontal design cues in bold contrast is the unique roof of the Flex.

Upgrades and enhancements for 2016 include: first-ever Flex Appearance Package features black door handles, window sills, roof, liftgate appliqué and grille, along with standard 20-inch rims to provide a signature look; new colors include Shadow Black, Too Good to Be Blue and Kona Blue.

Available in SE, SEL, and Limited trim levels, SYNC 3 – Ford’s new communications and entertainment system – features faster performance, conversational voice recognition, intuitive smartphone-like touch screen and easier-to-understand graphical interface and is now standard for SEL and Limited trim levels.

Base power for the Flex is generated by the refined 3.5L V6 engine mated to a fuel-efficient six-speed automatic transmission. The automatic gearbox uses a wide 6.04:1 gear ratio to deliver good fuel economy and performance. The automaker’s 3.5L EcoBoost™ V-6 engine is an available option.

Torque is transferred to the street through a six-speed SelectShift Automatic™ transmission. This advanced gearbox offers the driver a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control. All-wheel drive (AWD) is optional on the base engine and standard with the EcoBoost engine.

Intelligent all-wheel drive continuously monitors vehicle and driver input, predicts traction, and automatically delivers the precise amount of engine torque needed to all four wheels – even before slippage occurs.

Inside the cabin offers impressive room for seven adults. The upscale and elegant interior is a place of contemporary, relaxed style. An example of “surprise and delight” items in the full-size Flex crossover is the class-exclusive refrigerated console. Mounted between the second-row captain’s chairs, the available compressor-driven refrigerator can cool up to seven 12-ounce cans, four half-liter bottles or two 20-ounce bottles from room temperature to 41 degrees in a little more than two-and-a-half hours – 40 percent faster than a standard home refrigerator.

Dimensions & specifications

Wheelbase: 117.9; overall length: 201.8; width: 75.9; height: 69.3

All vehicle measurements in inches.

Engine: 3.5L V6 – 287 hp at 6,500 rpm and 254 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm; 3.5L V6 EcoBoost – 365 hp at 5,500 rpm and 350 lbs-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm.

Transmission: six-speed automatic overdrive

EPA Fuel Economy: 3.5L V6 – 18 city/25 hwy (FWD), 17 city/23 hwy. (AWD); 3.5L EcoBoost V6 – 16 city/23 hwy.

Cargo capacity: 83.2 cubic feet

Towing capacity: 4,500 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, dual head curtain airbags, battery run-down protection, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, brake assist, fog lights, automatic headlamps, reverse sensing parking system, remote keyless entry, rollover protection sensors, rearview camera, SecuriLock theft deterrent system, traction control, and Advance Trac stability control. SEL adds SYNC 3 communications system, universal garage door opener. Limited adds high-intensity discharge headlamps, blind sport information system with cross traffic alert, power liftgate, navigation system, remote engine start, and power adjustable pedals.

Optional safety features include adaptive cruise control, collision warning with brake support, and active park assist.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, Bumper-to-bumper

Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited

Roadside Assistance: 5-year/60,000 mile, 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2016 Ford Flex crossover starts from $29,600 for SE, $32,300 for SEL and $37,800 for the Limited. Destination charges add $895.