Ford plans to put its new EcoBoost engine in 90% of its vehicles by 2013, starting with the Ford Flex and the LINCOLN MKS and LINCOLN MKT. The 3.5L V6 is turbocharged and direct-injected, the first of its kind to be built in North America. Its power is comparable to a normally aspirated 4.6L V8 while getting V6 gas mileage.
The EcoBoost engine is an option on the SEL and Limited models with all-wheel drive. The standard engine for all trim levels -- SE, SEL and Limited -- is a normally aspirated 3.5L V6 with 262 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, another fuel-saving feature Ford plans to incorporate into more of its vehicles.
Safety and handling systems include independent front and rear roll stability control, ABS, air bags including canopy and side curtain bags for all three rows and tire pressure monitoring.
Trim levels stay the same for 2011, with the exception of a new Titanium range-topper. The front-wheel-drive SE returns as the base trim, with features such as a reverse sensing system, capless fuel tank, rear climate system, power everything and rear reading lamps all standard. The Microsoft SYNC information and entertainment system is optional, as is an audio system upgrade.
The SEL adds standard niceties like a 10-way heated power seat, dual-zone climate control, SYNC and a universal garage door opener. Options include a rear DVD entertainment system, Sony sound system, refrigerated rear console, Vista roof and 20" aluminum wheels with the EcoBoost package.
The Limited adds standard 10-way heated power seats with memory function, a 110-volt inverter, second-row footrests, power liftgate, LED tail lamps, HID headlamps and power heated mirrors. Options are generally the same as the SEL, like the Vista roof and rear refrigerated console for beverages.
For 2011, the Flex Titanium replaces the Limited as the top-of-the-line model. Features include all of the Limited's equipment, as well as blacked-out headlamps and tail lamps, black chrome grille and trim, polished 20-inch wheels, black leather seats with Alacantara inserts, and four additional color choices.
New Powerful, Efficient EcoBoost Engine
Three Rows Of Seating
Distinctive, Aggressive Styling
The big news for the 2011 Ford Flex is the addition of a new trim level, called Titanium. It takes over as the new range topping model, adding blackout treatment for headlights and taillights, black chrome grille, moldings and trim, polished aluminum 20-inch wheels, Charcoal black leather seats with Alcantara suede inserts, and four special exterior colors: Red Candy, White Platinum, Tuxedo Black and Ingot Silver with black roof.
The Ford Flex is a crossover vehicle that actually has enough space for seven grownups and their gear -- and a 4500-lb towing capacity. Available all-wheel drive makes it a capable sport truck, though not a full-blown off-roader. The wide stance and aggressive 3-bar grille give the Flex a street-smart presence as well. It's a well-rounded crossover that starts just under $30,000.
