Ford Flex 2016 crossover on the year

Ford Flex 2016 crossover on the year google doc

Ford Flex 

 Ford has make good on the Flex's look by giving it good handling and strong performance. The base 3.5-liter V-6 makes 287 hp, but the star of the lineup remains the turbocharged, 365-hp V-6, which runs off 0-60 mph times of under seven seconds and lightens up the Flex's footwork, making it faster than anything in the class. Thanks to an electric power steering system with a quick ratio, and a steering unit that's now locked onto the subframe, steering feel is more precise, while the Flex keeps its well-controlled ride and responsive brakes on tap.

It’s a pleasant vehicle to drive, a step up from the likes of the Chevy Traverse and Toyota Highlander. Mostly, it's because of the superior ride quality, descended way back from the Volvo XC90 that spun off the Flex' platform, the same one underpinning the Taurus, the Lincoln MKS and the MKT. Even the base Flex carries itself like a smaller wagon, with crisp steering feel and a compliant feel that comes from its long wheelbase, but great control over its body motions even when it's hustled in a way no family vehicle will ever be used. Trust us on this one.

As large as the Flex is (it's 202 inches long, with an also-long 118-inch wheelbase), it's surprisingly manageable to park and drive around the city. It doesn't exactly drive small, but it doesn't feel much more cumbersome than a mid-size sedan. All the seats in both the first and second rows are cozy, with limousine-like room in every direction, and a choice of buckets or a bench. The long wheelbase pays off most here, but even the third-row seat has leg room for smaller adults, though head room is scant for six-footers.

Ford Flex 2016 crossover on the year google doc

Ford Flex safety and features

 The Flex's comprehensive safety package includes six airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control with anti-rollover technology. A rearview camera is now standard, and parking sensors are available, as are a blind-spot warning system and adaptive cruise control. It also has options for inflatable second-row seat belts, adaptive cruise control (with forward-collision alert), and a blind-spot monitoring system. The Flex has earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, but hasn't been tested recently by the NHTSA.

The Flex doesn't skimp on features. In its top Limited guise, it feels like a full-fledged luxury model. The base Flex SE comes standard with three-row seating; an AM/FM CD player; power windows, mirrors and locks; capless fuel filling; and MyKey, which lets owners set pre-programmed levels for radio volume and vehicle speed, effectively putting an electronic leash on younger drivers. Upscale Flex crossovers can be fitted with the turbo-six engine; all-wheel drive; a leather interior; and a glass panoramic sunroof.

All Flex SEL and Limited SUVs get the latest Ford infotainment system, which replaces the unloved MyFord Touch setup.The new Sync 3 infotainment controller responds more quickly and its screens have a less cluttered look. The Flex also has restored some controls to prominence on the center console: there's a capacitive panel that houses supplemental audio and climate-control buttons, and a physical button for the hazard lamps, though everything else (even climate controls) relies on touch.

Interior

Ford Flex 2016 crossover on the year google doc

The Ford Flex stands out in the crowd with its hip, square, sleek looks. Space-aged surf wagon, anyone?

Arguably, the Flex looks like an homage to the entire history of station wagons, but we can't help but discern a British streak down its sides. Volvo 245, Ford Fairline, Country Squire--it's all there, and to us, it's also part Range Rover, part MINI Cooper. It boldly forges its own style as it skirts around the "minivan" tag--and now it's even less "Ford," now that the badging's been removed, and only the "FLEX" name is tattooed across its nose. The only Ford mark on the vehicle is a blue-oval badge, on the lower right corner of the hatch. And is it just us, or does the new front end resemble nothing less than a USB port?

Ford Flex 2016 crossover on the year google doc

Inside, the Flex's design essentially carries over, although there have been some subtle changes to the materials--with soft-touch materials now used in the upper door trims as well. The instrument panel sits low, while a round analog clock on the dash of the navigation-equipped Flex clearly pays homage to the MINI--down to the stamped-in ribs that flank it. The center stack makes room for the large MyFord screen interface, along with capacitive touch controls for climate control and audio beneath it.