2012 Ford Flex

2012 Ford Flex

Call it a full-size station wagon if you may -- though Ford would like not to, opting for a full-size crossover moniker instead -- the Flex effectively fills the hole left by the Freestar minivan in Ford's line-up. For the most recent model year, Ford has given the Flex its 1st refresh and added a dose of funky styling to the already-funky CUV

Though it will possible still live in the sales shadow of the Explorer, the exterior changes to the Flex conspire to offer it so much more visual oomph than its comparatively conservative sibling. Ford concentrated its attention on the front-end of the crossover, adding a brand new grille with a central bar rendered in chrome that flows into redesigned headlight clusters on either side. Though still containing a healthy amount of chrome, the look is perhaps less gauche than the shiny mug of the Edge.

Notably, Ford ditched the grille-mounted blue oval badge, making “Flex” lettering the sole identifying mark on the front-end. A commonplace dual-exhaust setup along with new paint and wheel options round out the exterior alterations.

Under the hood, the bottom three.five-liter V6 gains twenty extra horsepower for a total of 285 while additionally managing to come back one mpg a lot of in both highway and town cycles (eighteen/twenty five mpg). Torque is additionally up by 7 lb-ft feet.

The optional (on some trim levels) three.5-liter EcoBoost engine with twin-turbochargers and direct injection, boosting power significantly to thirty fivefive horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, remains unchanged. Each engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, while the EcoBoost gains a SelectShift perform with paddle shifters.

Other changes found within the refreshed Flex include a redesigned center console and a brand new instrument panel with a centrally-located speedometer, as well as the foremost recent version of MyFord Touch.

Push-button begin, rain-sensing wipers and an accessible refrigerated console within the second row are new. Optional tech options include Ford’s “BLIS” blind-spot monitoring system, “ACC” radar-based adaptive cruise management and inflatable seatbelts for the second-row seats.

Those trying to make even a lot of of a visual statement can choose the new Appearance Package, which adds a 2-tone treatment to the roof and mirrors, twenty-in. machined aluminum wheels with painted pockets, leather seats and distinctive door trim panels.

The Flex is offered in SE, SEL, Limited and range-topping Titanium trim levels, this CUV is loaded with options for discerning consumers.

This boldly-styled folks-mover options a customary seating capability of six, with an optional split bench seat within the second row upping that number to seven.

Because of the automotive's mission in life, safety may be a huge half of the equation too, because the Flex sports Ford's AdvanceTrac with RSC electronic stability program across the vary, together with six airbags (not counting optional inflatable rear seatbelts).

The options list is long, presumably to suit the varying desires of families, and is comprised of niceties such as an inside refrigerator, second-row footrests, Ford Sync in-car communications and entertainment system, cap-less fueling, a 2,three hundred-song MP3 player, voice-activated DVD navigation system, ceiling-mounted CD/DVD player, programmable ambient interior lighting and a Multi-Panel Vista Roof.

The Flex SE is equipped with the usual creature comforts such as power accessories and A/C, while the SEL adds Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Management, 10-approach power heated driver's seat and six-method power heated passenger seat, EasyFold 2nd row seats, a six-CD Sirius Satellite radio and a brighter exterior because of some chrome accents.

The previously vary-topping Limited jazzes up the looks even additional with larger, 19-in. polished wheels and even additional chrome accents, heated and leather-trimmed seats in the first 2 rows, HID headlights and LED taillights, Ford's Sync Bluetooth- and digital audio device-interface system, and a Power Liftgate.

For those seeking nothing but the best wrapped during a sleek and fashionable package, the Flex Titanium is for you. This trim level adds to the Limited trim package with charcoal black leather-cut 1st and 2nd-row seats with Grey Alcantara Suede inserts. The steering wheel gets perforated leather with painted alloy metallic accents, along with cruise and audio controls designed-in.

The interior gets further vogue with a circle check applique pattern on the dash and door inserts, along with illuminated scuff plats made of stainless-steel. The outside of the Titanium gets a dose of black for the headlamps, taillights, mirror skull caps, roof and black chrome on the liftgate and grille. The Titanium rides on 20-in. polished aluminum wheels.

 2012 Ford Flex

 2012 Ford Flex

 2012 Ford Flex

 2012 Ford Flex

 2012 Ford Flex

2012 Ford Flex