As fewer new car buyers are buying up gas-guzzling SUVs and trucks, consumer are also staying away from minivans. Although they were at one time the best method to transport the whole family, the minivan today doesn’t hold the same status as it once did just a few years ago. In fact, Chevrolet and Ford have abandoned the segment all together. But Ford has a solution. Rather than pursue a minivan, Ford is pursuing new crossovers such as the all-new Ford Flex which the automaker hopes will become the main vehicle for family hauling.
Ford Flex Image
The Ford Flex is a standout within Ford’s current lineup. The styling is both modern and retro, with a boxy body and straight sides. It looks like it is part minivan and part station wagon. With its funky styling, Ford hopes to take on the likes of GM’s Acadia and Outlook crossovers, while also taking on the typical range of minivans such as the Chrysler Town & Country, Toyota Sienna, and Honda Odyssey.
With many vehicles sporting the boxy look, the Ford Flex may have many fans despite its unusual styling. Those who do warm up to the Flex will find that the crossover has some unique features that help distant it further from the competition. One of the Flex’s unique features highlighted by Burchett Ford Lincoln Mercury is the EasyFuel which is a capless refueling system, making filling up the Flex simpler and cleaner. In addition, passengers will also find a small refrigerator in the back that will keep occupant’s drinks ice cold during a trip.
Passengers inside the Ford Flex will notice a very cavernous cabin. The dash is designed in a simple and clean layout. Interior materials include available faux wood and chrome accents, and the interior includes soft, quality plastics as well. Ford dealers Ashland have noticed that drivers will also be drawn to Microsoft’s Sync infotainment system, which helps to provide occupants with a wide range of data such as weather and traffic information, navigation, and a variety of audio details.
Ford Flex Interior
Under the hood of the Ford Flex is a Duratec 3.5 liter V6 engine that produces 262 horsepower and 248 lb ft of torque. The engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission and can be had with either the standard front-wheel drive drivetrain or all-wheel drive. Despite having plenty of power to haul the entire family, and their cargo, don’t expect the Flex to move too fast, it ways as much as 4661 pounds which makes for a pretty hefty vehicle.
The front wheel drive Ford Flex has a fuel economy rating of 17 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon on the highway, which is decent mileage according to Ford dealer Denver shoppers. With all-wheel driver, mileage is rated at 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. Although the Flex won’t help you dramatically save gas money, it will help saves a little over comparable seven-passenger truck-based sport utilities.
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