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More power.
That was the fictional Tim Taylor's solution to every problem on the hit TV show "Home Improvement." It also seems to be the auto enthusiast's solution, even when there isn't a problem. In the case of the 2010 Ford Flex, adding the availability of 93 more horsepower seems to be the appropriate solution for a problem that the Flex didn't really have.
Ford's Flex crossover isn't a rocket with the standard 262 3.5-liter V-6 engine, but it's not slow, either. Still, Ford saw fit to add more available power, thanks to its EcoBoost 3.5-liter V-6. The addition of twin-turbochargers generates 355 ponies.
In Ford's mind, EcoBoost isn't about power, it's about increasing fuel-efficiency while not sacrificing any of that power. It's also about giving smaller engines the same muscle as their larger counterparts. Still, the EcoBoost engine has the same EPA ratings of the standard V-6, at least in all-wheel drive models--16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway.
Adding EcoBoost won't save on fuel economy, but it doesn't add to the pain, either. Imagine the difference if a V-8 were optional.
The added power isn't noticeable around town, but it is once you get deep into the throttle. Need to pass? Need to merge in a hurry? The Flex has you covered. Once the transmission kicks down and the tachometer hits the upper rev range, the Flex feels far faster than any tall wagon has the right to be.
Otherwise, the Flex feels like the 2009 edition--not much body roll, competent-if-boring steering feel, a slightly stiff ride that isn't terribly punishing.
It also carries the same handsome interior and the same controversial exterior styling. In fact, the only major change for 2010, other than the availabilty of EcoBoost, is the addition of a telescoping steering wheel.
As a family car, the Flex works fairly well. The availability of seating for six or seven passengers is nice, and there is a plenty of cargo space, especially with the rear seats folded down (in order to fit a suitcase in the rear, I had to fold them down). The procedure need to fold those seats down is a bit clumsy, as it requires two hands and the pulling of two separate straps, but once you get it down, it's not too hard.
For traveling families, the fuel economy numbers might be an issue. I achieved just under 13 mpg (12.95 to be exact) in just less than 140 miles of driving, but a few full-throttle runs and a lot of city driving brought that number down. Leadfoots, be ready to pay at the pump. Power isn't fun but it isn't free.
This tester came standard with all-wheel drive, Ford's Sync multimedia system, a rearview camera, a power liftgate, satellite radio, ABS, traction control, an antiskid system, and a capless fuel-filler, among others. Options included the Rapid Spec Package ($795, alloy wheels, 20-inch wheels), "red candy metallic" paint ($295), second row folding captain's chairs ($750), a Class III trailer hitch ($570), and a two-tone roof ($395). Base price: $42,010. As-tested price, with options and $775 destination fee: $45.590.
For families looking for a lot of space, the Flex is appealing, especially to those who remember the station wagons of old. The extra power will also appeal to certain buyers.
Yeah, it's not much of a handler, and you won't pass up too many gas pumps. But really, who can resist the call of "more power?"
