FORD FLEX ECOBOOST
A decade ago, the crazy fast Chevrolet Corvette used a 5.7L V8 to generate 350 lb-ft of torque. The public, including automotive press and Corvette owners, found 350 lb-ft to be hugely effective. Ford’s EcoBoost-powered Flex arrives at the 350 lb-ft figure using different methods, in a much larger vehicle; a vehicle with an entirely different purpose. Yet 350 lb-ft of torque, 102 lb-ft more than can be found in the regular Ford Flex, is still a difference maker.
In the first Good 12 Supersize,The Good Car Guy passed over the gorgeous Flex because it had just the one differentiating character trait: style. This Ford’s competition, both internal and external, looks nothing at all like the Flex. GoodCarBadCar.net had no trouble honouring the Buick Enclave, another stylish crossover, as that American brute didn’t suffer from the feeling of power deficiency and, more importantly, possessed a nature so serene that it could not be ignored.
Fortunately for Ford, seasons change. The Flex is now available with the twin-turbocharged V6 from the Taurus SHO (among others) while its defining character trait remains strong. Space for a large family, the ride height of an SUV, and style befitting of a hip urbanite team up with the thumping V6 to make the Ford Flex EcoBoost a box worth acquiring.
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Engines: 355 horsepower; 350 lb-ft of torque from a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6
Base USD Price: $40,090
Cargo Capacity: 83.2 cubic feet behind front row
Maximum Towing Capability: 4,500 pounds
City Mileage: 16 mpg
White Roof Only: The Ford Fairlane Concept of ’05 was a two-tone tall wagon with plenty of side strakes and rear suicide doors. It was lovely. In production, Ford has given buyers the option of a monotone finish. No designer worth his weight in pastel crayons would advise anyone to select their Flex without the white roof. Some buyers do so anyway. This is a very specific GCBC Awards selection – the Ford Flex EcoBoost with a white roof only. Trimmed as such, the Flex looks incredible. Without the contrasting roof, the Flex looks like a delivery van with blingy wheels.
It's odd how a company can manufacture a vehicle that can be so blah in one colour but yet so striking in two colours.