2011 Ford Flex Total Car Score Analysis

The Total Car Score earned by the 2011 Ford Flex topped the Large SUV & Crossover segment, as reviewers were unanimous in their praise for the unique-looking vehicle. More than one article, in fact, called out the Flex as an ideal alternative for buyers who want minivan-like passenger accommodations without bland minivan styling.  
 
The Flex’s beauty isn’t just skin deep, either, as a turbocharged, 355-horsepower EcoBoost engine option adds a lot of fun to the driving experience. That fun doesn’t come cheap, though; expect to pay an extra $10,000 for those 355 ponies over the base engine.  
 
The Flex was introduced three years ago; Ford bolstered the Flex lineup for ’11 with the addition of a Titanium trim level, which adds unique exterior and interior styling accents, plus 20-inch five-spoke wheels, to the already-well-equipped Limited version.  
 
Other changes for ’11 include the addition of HD radio to the voice-activated navigation system package, and the availability of the one-touch PowerFold third-row 50/50-split bench seat in Limited and Titanium models.

2011 Ford Flex Model Line-Up

The 2011 Ford Flex is a fullsize, three-row, seven-passenger crossover vehicle that’s offered with a choice of two engines: a 3.5-liter, naturally aspirated V6 rated at 262 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque, and a turbocharged, 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, which produces 355 horsepower and 350 lb-ft. Both are paired with six-speed automatic transmissions; the standard V6 is offered in front- and all-wheel-drive powertrains, while the EcoBoost is AWD only.  
 
The FWD Flex returns the model’s best fuel economy numbers, earning an EPA rating of 17 mpg city, 24 highway and 19 mpg combined. The AWD EcoBoost-powered Flex is a little thirstier, earning 16/21 mpg ratings.  
 
The Flex is available in four trim levels, starting with the SE, which is equipped with cloth upholstery, an AM/FM/CD audio system, a reverse sensing system and 17-inch alloy wheels. The SEL grade adds Ford’s SYNC in-car connectivity system, satellite radio, dual-zone automatic climate control and 18-inch wheels.  
 
Limited models have leather upholstery, an upgraded sound system, HID headlights, a PowerFold third-row seat and 19-inch wheels. The top-line Titanium model, new for ’11, is recognizable by its blacked-out trim, 20-inch wheels and Alcantara leather seat inserts.  
 
The 2011 Ford Flex can tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped.

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