“The only thing an EcoBoost Flex doesn't give is great gas mileage…as to be expected. You get room, comfort, and the same 0-60 as a WRX STI. The only thing i don't like about the EcoBoost Flex is that 2019 was the last model year.”
Ford Flex: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide
Last updated August 4, 2026
The Ford Flex is a three-row family SUV known for its boxy, wagon-like shape, roomy cabin, and low, easy-loading stance. It seats up to seven and offers an alternative to both a minivan and a taller, truck-like SUV.
Across its 2009-2019 run, the Flex stayed focused on carrying people and cargo in a distinctive low, square shape. Its flexible three-row cabin and easier step-in height defined it more than yearly changes did. A 2013 refresh modernized the styling, powertrain, and technology, but the practical family-first formula remained the same.
Strengths
- Its square shape creates a roomy cabin with flexible space for passengers and cargo.
- The low stance makes it easier to step into and load than many taller SUVs.
- Seating for up to seven gives families genuine three-row usefulness.
- It drives with a lower, more wagon-like feel than a tall, truck-like SUV.
- Front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive versions give used shoppers options for different needs.
Who it's for
The Flex suits families who need three rows and useful cargo room but do not want a minivan or the high seating position of a traditional SUV. It is especially appealing when easy entry, easy loading, and a comfortable everyday driving feel matter more than having the newest design.
Ford Flex lineup
The long-running lineup progresses from SE to SEL to Limited. Pick SE for the straightforward version of the Flex’s core seven-seat family formula, while SEL is the middle-ground trim and is often the better place to look for AWD. Limited is the upscale choice and, from 2010 onward, certain versions also bring the stronger turbocharged V6. The short-lived Titanium from the early 2010s is the style-focused version, marked by darker exterior details and a distinct cabin treatment.
Ford Flex generations
From 2009 to 2019, the Flex spans 1 generation. The current 1st Generation arrived for 2009.
1st Generation (2009–2019)
The Flex remained in one generation for its entire run, with a low, boxy body, three rows of seating, and a standard V6. A turbocharged V6 arrived for 2010, and a substantial 2013 update refreshed the styling, standard engine, transmission, cabin trim, and technology without creating a new generation.
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2019
Minor package reshuffling; otherwise essentially unchanged for its final model year.
2018
The styling, engines, and SE, SEL, and Limited lineup carried over.
2017
The late-cycle design, V6 engines, and trim lineup carried over.
2016
A rearview camera became standard on every trim, while SEL and Limited received the newer SYNC 3 touchscreen system.
2015
The trim lineup, engines, and drivetrain choices carried over.
2014
The renamed Appearance Package offered a black or body-color roof on SEL and Limited.
2013Mid-cycle update
Refreshed front styling joined a stronger standard V6, a revised six-speed automatic, updated cabin trim, and expanded safety and display technology.
2012
Small updates included a centered rear wiper and added roof and second-row seating details.
2011Trim changes
The style-focused Titanium trim joined the lineup above Limited.
2010
A 355-hp twin-turbo V6 arrived on AWD SEL and Limited models, along with MyKey and an automated parking feature on turbocharged versions.
2009New generation
The all-new Flex launched as a boxy three-row crossover with SE, SEL, and Limited trims, a 3.5-liter V6, and front- or all-wheel drive.
What's new by year
See what changed in a specific model year of the Ford Flex.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ford Flex an SUV, a wagon, or a minivan?
The Ford Flex is a three-row crossover with SUV-like space and a lower, wagon-like stance. It does not have the sliding doors of a minivan, and it feels less tall and truck-like than many SUVs.
How many people does a Ford Flex seat?
The Ford Flex seats up to seven people in three rows. Its second- and third-row seats fold to make more room for cargo when passenger space is not needed.
Is the Ford Flex a good family vehicle?
Yes, especially for families that need three rows but do not want a minivan or a tall, truck-like SUV. Its boxy cabin, low step-in height, and folding rear seats make people and cargo easier to manage.
Does the Ford Flex come as a hybrid?
No. Every Ford Flex uses a gasoline engine. The lineup centers on a 3.5-liter V6, with a stronger twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 offered on certain upper-trim models.
Does the Ford Flex have all-wheel drive?
Yes. Ford Flex models are found with either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The exact drivetrain depends on the model year and trim, so check the equipment on the individual used vehicle.
What engines are found in the Ford Flex?
Most Ford Flex models use a regular 3.5-liter V6 with a six-speed automatic. A twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 arrived for 2010 on certain AWD upper trims and continued in parts of the later lineup.
Was the Ford Flex ever fully redesigned?
No. The Ford Flex had one generation from 2009 through 2019. Its biggest update came for 2013, bringing revised styling, a stronger standard V6, a revised automatic transmission, and expanded technology.
Is the Ford Flex easier to get into than a tall SUV?
Generally, yes. The Flex has a lower, wagon-like stance and a relatively low step-in height, which can make entry and loading easier than in a taller, more truck-like SUV.
Ford Flex Reviews
What owners are saying about the Ford Flex.
4.3
Ford Flex
(971 reviews)
“we are extremely disappointed with the FLEX fuel economy. we are conservative drivers and yet we find that we can never do better than 15.1 mpg which is well below the advertised fuel economy standard for the car. truly disappointing as this was one of the biggest factors for us in choosing this model.”
“This vehicle is not for everyone. I would have preferred a crossover but all of them were too high to get into for me. Gas mileage on the Flex is terrible.”
“Everything you love about a minivan without the boring stigma of a minivan. Super versatile, so comfortable for all shapes and sizes, LOTS of legroom and headroom, great cargo capacity.”
“Been wanting to own a Ford Flex for many years. This vehicle is highly rated on ease of ingress and egress and is a good replacement for my wife's minivan. It has a unique style and is a comfortable daily driver.”
“I love everything about this Ford Flex the only downside would be the motor and transmission. Would have befitting from another gear or two and just a little bit more power.”