Ford plans to put its new EcoBoost engine in 90% of its vehicles by 2013, starting with the Ford Flex and the Lincoln MKS and Lincoln MKT. The 3.5-liter V6 is turbocharged and direct-injected, the first of its kind to be built in North America. Its power is comparable to a normally aspirated 4.6-liter V8 while getting V6 gas mileage.
The EcoBoost engine is an option on the SEL and Limited models with all-wheel drive. The standard engine for all trim levels -- SE, SEL and Limited -- is a normally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 with 262 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, another fuel-saving feature Ford plans to incorporate into more of its vehicles.
Safety and handling systems include independent front and rear suspension roll stability control, ABS, air bags including canopy and side curtain bags for all three rows and tire pressure monitoring.
Trim levels stay the same for 2010, with the front-wheel-drive SE as the base trim. Features such as a reverse sensing system, capless fuel tank, rear climate system, power everything and rear reading lamps are standard. The SE gets one standard upgrade for 2010: 17" aluminum wheels that were previously optional. The Microsoft SYNC information and entertainment system is optional, as is an audio system upgrade.
The SEL adds standard niceties like a 10-way heated power seat, dual-zone climate control, SYNC and a universal garage door opener. Options include a rear DVD entertainment system, Sony sound system, refrigerated rear console, Vista roof, and 20" aluminum wheels with the EcoBoost package.
The top-of-the-line Limited adds standard 10-way heated power seats with memory function, a 110-volt inverter, second-row footrests, power liftgate, LED taillamps, HID headlamps and power heated mirrors. New for 2010 is a voice-activated navigation system with reverse camera. Options for the Limited are generally the same as the SEL, like the Vista roof and rear refrigerated console for beverages.
New Powerful, Efficient EcoBoost Engine
Three Rows Of Seating
Distinctive, Aggressive Styling
The big news for the 2010 Ford Flex is the addition of the new EcoBoost engine. The 3.5-liter V6 delivers 355 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque while getting 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway -- not bad for a full-sized crossover with three rows of seats.
The Flex now features a power folding split bench seat standard. Other new options include active park assist available with the EcoBoost engine, and in-headrest DVD system.
The Ford Flex is a crossover vehicle that actually has enough space for seven grownups and their gear -- and a 4500-lb towing capacity. Available all-wheel drive makes it a capable sport truck, though not a full-blown off-roader. The wide stance and aggressive three-bar grille give the Flex a street-smart presence as well. It's a well-rounded crossover that starts just under $30,000.
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