2014 Ford Flex Expert Review
Reviewed by Austin Lott
Vehicle Overview
The Flex is Ford's six- to seven-passenger crossover that fits above the seven-passenger Explorer and five-passenger Edge, and below the eight-passenger Expedition. The Flex's purpose is people hauling, and the crossover has numerous features that help it to excel at that task for buyers avoiding minivans.
Summary
The six- to seven-passenger 2014 Ford Flex walks the fine line between crossover and minivan, offering buyers a stylish alternative that has no shortage of options to make people-moving easier and more comfortable. The Flex offers a choice of two six-cylinder engines: The 3.5-liter V-6 comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission in front-drive form (AWD optional), making 287 hp and 254 lb-ft of torque, while delivering 17-18/23-25 mpg city/highway, depending on driveline choice. The Flex can also be had with the twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 that pumps out 365 hp and 350 lb-ft, nets 16/23 mpg, and only comes with AWD.
Some notable options include rear seatbelt airbags, second-row refrigerated console (can chill or freeze your drinks), PowerFold third-row seats, radar-enabled adaptive cruise control, and Ford's Curve Control (to keep the Flex under control when entering a turn). Mechanically related to the Lincoln MKT, the Ford Flex is available as a six-passenger model with second-row captain's chairs and in seven-passenger form as well. While the Flex isn't setting any sales records, it boasts the highest retention rate among any vehicle in the Ford family.
The 2014 Ford Flex has not been rated by the NHTSA, but in IIHS testing received a rating of good in the four categories for which it's been tested.
New for 2014
The Ford Flex was refreshed for the 2013 model year, so the notable changes for 2014 are limited to two new exterior colors: Sunset Metallic and Oxford White.
What We Think
In a First Drive review of a 2013 Ford Flex, we commented that "the added power and broader torque curve are readily noticeable on the base V-6, which steps off with greater authority, though we wish the shifts happened quicker and with less torque sag." The brakes were praised and the steering noted to be faultless, with natural weighting. "Interior noise levels are remarkably low, allowing front-seat conversation to be easily heard from the third row" we commented in the same review. Regarding the twin-turbo EcoBoost V-6, "dial all of the above impressions up several notches, with truly naughty acceleration rates and slightly crisper steering feel."
Key Competitors
Rating
A welcome alternative to the minivan.
