2013 Ford Flex: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The big news for the 2013 Ford Flex is a substantial mid-cycle refresh, not a full redesign. It brings a new front end, a stronger standard V6, and updated transmission, cabin, and technology features.

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About the 2013 Ford Flex

1st generation (2009-2019), mid-cycle refresh year

Ford positions the Flex as a roomy, style-forward family vehicle for people who want minivan-like usefulness without buying a minivan. The big draw is its long, low shape, adult-friendly third row, and flexible cargo space, along with a lower step-in height than many large SUVs. In plain terms, the Flex is the road-trip-friendly three-row Ford for shoppers who care as much about space and comfort as they do about standing out from the usual crossover crowd.

The 2013 lineup moves from the straightforward SE to the comfort-focused SEL and premium Limited. The SE has SYNC connectivity and two 4.2-inch displays, while the SEL adds heated front seats and an 8-inch touchscreen. The Limited adds leather seating, navigation, a 12-speaker Sony audio system, a rearview camera, and blind-spot monitoring.

What changed, by category

Powertrain

The standard 3.5-liter V6 received revised variable valve timing, raising output from 262 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque to 287 horsepower and 254 lb-ft. A 6-speed SelectShift automatic became the lineup-wide transmission, and fuel economy improved on several versions.

Styling

Ford redesigned the front end with a new grille and headlight treatment plus bold FLEX lettering across the hood. Inside, the steering wheel, seat trim, instrument displays, and cabin detailing were revised.

Tech

The refresh brought electric power-assisted steering and revised dashboard interfaces. The SE gained standard SYNC connectivity and MyFord displays, the SEL received an 8-inch MyFord Touch screen, and the Limited made its touchscreen and navigation system standard.

Safety

The Limited made a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert standard. Inflatable second-row seat belts also joined the model range as an optional safety feature.

Trim lineup

The Titanium trim was dropped, leaving SE, SEL, and Limited versions.

2013 Ford Flex specs and features by trim

Feature	2013 Ford FlexSE0 in stock	2013 Ford FlexSEL0 in stock	2013 Ford FlexLimited0 in stock
Engine	V6, 3.5 Liter	V6, 3.5 Liter	V6, 3.5 Liter / V6, EcoBoost, 3.5L
Transmission	Auto, 6-Spd w/SelShft	Auto, 6-Spd w/SelShft	Auto, 6-Spd w/SelShft
Drivetrain	FWD	AWD	FWD / AWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	18 mpg	17 mpg	16–18 mpg
MPG Highway	25 mpg	23 mpg	23–25 mpg
Horsepower	287 hp	287 hp	287–365 hp
Torque	254 lb-ft	254 lb-ft	254–350 lb-ft
Max Towing	4500 lb	4500 lb	4500 lb
Trunk/Cargo	83.2 cu-ft	83.2 cu-ft	83.2 cu-ft
Rear Legroom	33.3 in	33.3 in	33.3 in
Seats	7	7	7
Doors	4	4	4
Safety & Security
Adaptive Cruise Control
Alarm System
Automatic Emergency Braking
Blindspot Sensors
Park Assist
Rain Sensing Windshield Wipers
Rear View Camera
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Fog Lights
HID Headlights
Heated Mirrors
LED Tail Lights
Memory Exterior Mirrors
Power Moonroof
Power Folding Exterior Mirrors
Power Liftgate/Trunk Release
Roof Rails
Trailer Hitch Receiver
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
Built-In Hard Drive
Navigation System
Premium Audio
SD Card Slot
Satellite Radio
Smartphone Interface
Touch Screen Monitor
USB Ports
Video Input
Comfort & Convenience
Cooled Seats
Dual Power Front Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Heated Rear Seats
Integrated Garage Door Opener
Interior Ambient Lighting
Leather Seats
Memory Driver's Seat
Memory Pedals
Power Adjustable Pedals
Power Driver Seat
Power Folding Third Row Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry
Push-Button Engine Start
Refrigerator/Cooler
Remote Start
Third Row Seat

How the 2014 Ford Flex compares

The 2014 Ford Flex is a light-update year, not a redesign. The main change is a renamed Appearance Package for SEL and Limited trims, with either a black or body-color roof.

See the full 2014 changes

Frequently asked questions

Was the 2013 Ford Flex fully redesigned?

No. The 2013 Ford Flex received a substantial mid-cycle refresh, but it remained part of the first generation introduced for 2009. The update changed the front-end styling, cabin details, standard V6, transmission, and technology.

How much more powerful is the 2013 Ford Flex than the 2012 model?

The standard 2013 Flex V6 makes 287 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque, up from 262 horsepower and 248 lb-ft in 2012. It also uses a 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission.

Which trim was discontinued for the 2013 Ford Flex?

The Titanium trim was discontinued for 2013. The remaining lineup consists of the SE, SEL, and Limited.

What technology changed in the 2013 Ford Flex?

The 2013 Flex received revised display interfaces and broader touchscreen use. The SE gained standard SYNC and MyFord displays, the SEL moved to an 8-inch MyFord Touch screen, and the Limited made its touchscreen and navigation system standard.

What safety equipment changed for the 2013 Ford Flex?

The Limited gained a standard rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Inflatable second-row seat belts also joined the model range as an optional feature.