2010 Ford Flex Limited EcoBoost Review

The Flex leads Ford’s innovative path

Innovation and risk-taking are nothing new to Ford. With no government bailouts, no string of recalls, and yet still making it to the top, the automaker is certainly doing things right, quickly leaving the competitors in the dust. And the 2010 Ford Flex Limited with the all-new EcoBoost engine is leading the way.

When the award-winning Ford Flex first hit the streets a couple of years ago (you can view my 2009 Flex review here), this full-size SUV, with its distinctive, bold styling, certainly made an impact, showcasing Ford’s ability to push the envelope within any segment. With the introduction of the EcoBoost engine, the company has pushed these boundaries even further, distinguishing itself from the pack.

So, what exactly is this EcoBoost engine?

It’s an all-new 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 355 hp and 350 lb ft of torque. Essentially, a fuel-efficient V6 powerplant disguised as a powerful V8. It doesn’t get much better than this…not to mention accelerating from 0-60mph around the 7-second mark. The AWD Flex with EcoBoost, as tested, delivers 13.1-L/100km in the city and 9.2-L/100km on the highway.

But the EcoBoost moniker is more than an engine—the name exemplifies an overall strategy and ongoing effort by Ford to produce fuel-efficient powertrain systems for various products. The automaker claims that by 2013, more than 90 percent of their North American products will ship with EcoBoost.

2010 Ford Flex Features

Considering the Ford Flex is a family-mover, the newly introduced Class III Trailer Tow package is a worthy addition; offering 4500-lb towing ability and working in conjunction with the Flex’s other advanced technologies (including AdvanceTrac and Roll Stability Control), the Flex provides even more safety and reliability for towing needs. Also new for 2010 Active Park Assist (yep, the Flex will parallel park….itself) and Paddle Shift. All three are new-to-segment features not yet found in the competition.

The 2010 Ford Flex with EcoBoost, in the AWD Limited trim (as tested), offers a variety of features, including:

• Six-speed SelectShift Automatic transmission with Paddle Shift Activation
• Sport-tuned suspension
• SYNC with 911 Assist
• Electric Power-Assist Steering (EPAS), which enables Active Park Assist and Pull-Drift Compensation
• Chrome dual-tip exhaust system
• 19-inch polished aluminum wheels
• Leather-trimmed seats
• Sony premium audio system with 12 speakers in 10 locations
• Convenience package (includes adjustable pedals with memory, a power liftgate, memory driver’s seat and mirrors, heated mirrors, puddle lamps, and 110-volt inverter)
• Lighting package (includes HID headlamps, LED tail lamps, and ambient lighting)

Takeaway: Flexing the anti-minivan sentiment

Overall, the 2010 Ford Flex is the ideal ‘mini-van’ without the mini-van stigma, offering abundant cargo space, a spacious and well-designed cabin including comfortable third-row seating, and a slew of safety features, all wrapped in a bold, low-stance body. Now, with better towing ability and the all-new EcoBoost engine, part of Ford’s ongoing commitment to a greener future, the Flex continues to push the envelope and lead the way in introducing new-to-segment features.

2010 Ford Flex Limited V6 EcoBoost Specs