Vehicle: 2009 Ford Flex Limited AWD with Vista Roof, voice-activated navigation system and monopaint application
Price as tested: CDN$44674

Performance: Given the stylish Flex is based on the same underpinnings as Taurus, it doesn’t come as a surprise that it shares the same powertrain. It is the same Duratec 35, as its designation indicated. Its the 3.5 liter Duratec DOHC V6 with 262 hp and 248 lb/ft of torque. With 262 ponies on driver’s disposal, this powertrain is capable enough to move 4600+ pounds of leather-lined luxury on our loaded Limted AWD tester. 248 lb/ft arrives at 4500rpm is another reason why Flex is flexible off-the-line. We found it surprising that Flex has a more peppy and responsive acceleration than its chassis silibing, Taurus X. Mated with this motor is the 6-speed automatic gearbox. The gear ratio is perfect for Flex, as its lowest gears are low enough for good acceleration, as we have experienced. On the other hand, the top 6th overdrive gear ratio is tall enough for relax cruising. We have clocked 100 km/h revving at 2000rpm is impressive for a crossover with a V6. Other than comfortable cruising, this kind of gear ratio is good enough for decent fuel economy. The throttle response is quick. This Duratec 35 application is refined and low NVH is a delightful surprise.

Handling: Its hardly a surprise that Flex’s chassis is a stiff and stout one, given it dates back to Volvo’s large car platform. It is completely feel of groans and cracks when driven hard over bumps and patholes. That means its ride quality has a sense of European suppleness on top of American softness is an added bonus. Although Flex isn’t designed as a capable handler, however, we found its dynamic abilities are big surprise. The steering is smooth and precise, with decent on and off-center feels. This is a huge surprise because most of its peers have numb steering feel, its not with the Flex. Ford’s AdvanceTrac, or what the rest of the world called ESP, work decently with its AWD system. This AWD system works as an active safety, which coordinate with AdvanceTrac, to provide the maximum security for its occupants. The result is a crossover that is a surprise when pushed through corners. There are safe understeer and body rolls, as one expects from such a heavy crossover. But everything else is very well-tempted. The biggest drawback, however, its the large turning radius. This has been a well-documented issue with Volvo’s large car platform, it seems to be Ford still haven’t figured out the way to solve such an important issue when it comes to turning radius.

Brakes: Consider Flex’s weight, its braking distance is more than acceptable. Its brake feel and modulation are another surprise. The pedal feels solid and modulation is balanced. ABS also steps out the equation until absolutely necessary.

Interior: Ford’s interior used to be bland, boring and plasticky. Flex is the right step forward. The dashboard and door panels are covered in soft plastic, which have a nice texture and tactical to the touch. The instrumentation gauges are clear and analog. The center screen houses all the information from the radio, climate control and back-up camera. Its worthy of note that driver can change from navigation to climate control with the whole set of buttons below the screen. One can control both side of climate control to rear passenger through the touch screen. Speaking of auto climate control, its a very effective system in such a hot weather.

The faux wood trim and aluminum trim have brighten up the black interior nicely, especially with the airy Vista Roof optional on the Vista.

The 2nd and 3rd row of seats are as comfortable as the ones in front. There are plenty of head and legrooms on both rows.

Ford has done a good job with Flex’s cargo area. Its not only the hatch opens tall enough with a squared-off cut-off space, it also features automatic closing for convenience. To add more convenience, simply fold both 2nd and 3rd row flat. Its versatile enough to put the whole cupboard in with ease.

Conclusion: Flex is a very suitable name for Ford’s newest crossover. As its interior space and cargo space are flexible enough to forget any minivans, especially Ford’s now-deficit unremarkable Windstar and Freestar. Its powertrain and availability of AWD are equally flexible to every needs and wants. Flex is a game changer from Ford’s poor attempt on minivans.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2009 Ford Flex
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Performance: 4/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 4.5/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 5/5
Value-for-money: 4/5

Overall rating: 4/5