The Ford Flex 3.5, equipped with a 262 horsepower engine and all-wheel drive (AWD) paired with an automatic transmission, was a distinctive American SUV produced from 2008 to 2012. Representing a departure from traditional SUV styling, the Flex aimed to blend the practicality of a minivan with the aesthetic appeal of a crossover. This particular variant, positioned as a mid-to-upper trim level, offered a compelling combination of space, power, and features for families seeking a versatile vehicle. It was a key component of Ford’s effort to revitalize its SUV lineup during a period of shifting consumer preferences.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Flex |
| Generation | Flex |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 (262 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 6-7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 13.1 l/100 km (18 US mpg, 21.6 UK mpg, 7.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 216 km/h (134.22 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 124.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.3 kg/Nm, 159.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 262 Hp @ 6250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 336 Nm @ 4500 rpm (247.82 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Duratec 35 |
| Engine displacement | 3496 cm3 (213.34 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Compression ratio | 10.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.2 l (5.49 US qt | 4.58 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12.5 l (13.21 US qt | 11 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2105 kg (4640.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 566 l (19.99 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 71 l (18.76 US gal | 15.62 UK gal) |
| Length | 5130 mm (201.97 in.) |
| Width | 2032 mm (80 in.) |
| Height | 1727 mm (67.99 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2995 mm (117.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1661 mm (65.39 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1661 mm (65.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm (5.91 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 235/60 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Ford Flex 3.5 AWD Automatic is the Duratec 35 engine, a 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6. This engine, part of Ford’s Duratec family, utilizes a 60-degree V-angle for improved balance and smoothness. It features a cast aluminum engine block with cast iron cylinder liners, and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The 6F55 automatic transmission, a six-speed unit, was standard. This transmission was known for its smooth shifts and relatively quick response, though it wasn’t as aggressively tuned for performance as some other six-speed automatics of the era. The AWD system is primarily front-wheel drive, engaging the rear wheels as needed for enhanced traction.
Driving Characteristics
The 262 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque provided by the Duratec 35 engine, coupled with the six-speed automatic, delivered adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 8.4 seconds, which was competitive for a large SUV. However, compared to the more powerful 3.5L EcoBoost Flex models, the 262 hp version felt noticeably less energetic, especially when fully loaded with passengers and cargo. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and comfortable cruising, rather than outright acceleration. The AWD system provided confident handling in inclement weather, but didn’t transform the Flex into a sporty vehicle. The ride quality was generally comfortable, absorbing bumps and road imperfections well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.5L AWD Automatic Flex typically came standard with features like tri-zone automatic climate control, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium sound system (often Sony branded), and a power liftgate. Optional extras included a navigation system, a rear-seat entertainment system, and a panoramic sunroof. Interior materials were generally of good quality, though not as luxurious as some competitors. The Flex’s boxy shape maximized interior space, offering ample headroom and legroom for all passengers. The available third-row seating made it a viable option for larger families.
Chassis & Braking
The Ford Flex utilized a unibody construction, providing a good balance of strength and weight. The front suspension featured independent MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employed an independent multi-link setup. This configuration contributed to a relatively comfortable ride. The braking system consisted of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) were standard. The Flex’s relatively heavy weight (around 4,640 lbs) meant that braking performance wasn’t particularly strong, requiring a reasonable distance for stopping.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Ford Flex received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its spacious interior, unique styling, and comfortable ride. However, the 3.5L engine was sometimes criticized for feeling underpowered, especially when compared to the available EcoBoost V6. Fuel economy was average for its class, with combined ratings around 18 mpg. Compared to competitors like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, the Flex offered a more distinctive design and a more spacious interior, but lacked the same level of refinement and fuel efficiency. The 1.8L automatic was often seen as a good value for families prioritizing space and practicality over performance.
Legacy
The Ford Flex, while discontinued in 2012, has developed a cult following among those who appreciate its unique styling and spacious interior. The Duratec 35 engine, while not known for being particularly groundbreaking, proved to be relatively reliable. Common issues include occasional oil leaks and sensor failures, but these are generally not major concerns. On the used car market, the Flex 3.5 AWD Automatic remains an affordable option for families seeking a versatile and spacious SUV. Its distinctive design and practical features continue to appeal to buyers looking for something different from the mainstream.
