2016 Ford Flex Review
2016 Ford Flex Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- The cabin is spacious and versatile, with genuine three-row space
- ride quality is smooth and reassuring
- plenty of easy-to use high-tech features
- visibility is as good as it gets for a vehicle of its size
- excellent turbocharged engine option has power to spare.
Cons
- Third-row seat is limited to two passengers
- the standard second-row bench doesn't slide.
What’s new
For 2016, the new Sync 3 infotainment system replaces the problematic MyFord Touch system, and a rearview camera is now standard for all trim levels.
Edmunds says
If you have a lot of people and cargo to move, the 2016 Ford Flex has the space and versatility you need. Its unique design means you'll stand out from the crowd, while a steady flow of improvements over the years means it has the features your family craves. Keep reading to find out what makes this vehicle so family-friendly.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2016 Ford Flex SE 4dr Wagon (3.5L 6cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.52 per gallon for regular unleaded in West Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in West Virginia
$230/mo for Flex SE
Flex SE
vs
$217/mo
Avg. Large Car
Vehicle overview
Since its introduction in 2009, the Ford Flex has defied definition. Is it a minivan, an SUV or a wagon? Whatever you label it, the Flex continues to deliver a ton of space, utility and comfort. For the most part, the 2016 Ford Flex returns unchanged, with one significant upgrade.
With its unabashedly boxy styling and two-tone exterior paint, the 2016 Ford Flex is as cool as it was at its debut seven years ago.
Pretty much since Day One, the MyFord Touch interface has been criticized for its complicated operation, unintuitive menus and slow reactions to inputs. All of that looks to be in the past with the introduction of the new Sync 3 interface this year. Gone is MyFord Touch's quirky, quadrant-based layout, replaced by a more conventional and responsive touchscreen with pinch-and-swipe capability like a smartphone. The 2016 Flex also features a rearview camera as standard equipment for all trim levels.
Thankfully, all that made the Flex a hit remains the same. Even though the Flex's cargo capacity trails some rivals on paper, the space itself is very usable, thanks to the car's boxy overall shape. Passenger space is also excellent, even for adults in the third row, and the high comfort levels allow for effortless long-distance road trips. Add to that the wealth of available features and a powerful turbocharged engine option and the Flex should easily make your short list.
Of course the Flex isn't alone in this class, and it's challenged by some very strong rivals. Mazda's CX-9 has been completely redesigned and promises the same driver engagement that made its predecessor so praiseworthy, plus a much-improved interior. The Toyota Highlander also gets high marks for its all-around goodness and an available hybrid model. The roomy GMC Acadia is another solid pick among high-capacity crossovers, though it hasn't aged as gracefully as the Ford. Whatever you decide to call it, the 2016 Ford Flex is worth a look if you need an excellent hauler of people and goods.
Performance & mpg
The standard engine for all 2016 Ford Flex models is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 287 horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission sends power to the front wheels by default, but all-wheel drive is an option for SEL and Limited trims. The EPA estimates fuel economy at 19 mpg combined (16 city/23 highway) for the front-drive model and 18 mpg combined (16 city/22 highway) with all-wheel drive.
The Limited trim is eligible for the optional turbocharged EcoBoost 3.5-liter V6 that increases output to a heady 365 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive is standard with this engine, as are steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. In Edmunds testing, an all-wheel-drive EcoBoost Flex Limited accelerated to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, a sizzling performance for a mainstream three-row crossover. Remarkably, fuel economy is unchanged at 18 mpg combined (16 city/22 highway).
Properly equipped, the Flex can tow up to 4,500 pounds, regardless of engine choice.
Safety
Standard safety features for all 2016 Ford Flex models include antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, integrated blind-spot mirrors, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, emergency telematics via paired cell phones and Ford's MyKey system that monitors the vehicle and allows owners to set certain limitations and alerts for valets and teen drivers.
Optional inflatable second-row seatbelts are available for all Flex trims. A blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alerts is available on SEL and standard on the Limited. Paired with the Limited's optional adaptive cruise control is a frontal collision warning system that pre-charges the brakes for maximum responsiveness, but does not brake automatically like some rival systems.
In crash testing conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Flex earned the top score of "Good" in the moderate-overlap frontal-offset and side-impact categories, as well as the roof-strength and head-restraint tests. It received the second-best score of "Acceptable" in the small-overlap frontal-offset impact test.
In Edmunds brake testing, a Flex Limited came to a stop from 60 mph in 120 feet, which is shorter than average for the class.
Driving
For the majority of drivers, the base 3.5-liter V6 should be adequate, but a Flex loaded to the brim with passengers and cargo will tax that engine. The turbocharged EcoBoost engine certainly solves that problem, and it's downright fast on the open road, accelerating into arrest-me range with astonishing ease. In addition to the power bump, the EcoBoost adds a hint of athleticism with a slightly stiffer suspension. Of course, the hot-rod Flex commands a hefty price premium, but if you're looking for some excitement in your family hauler, it's well worth the stretch.
The 2016 Ford Flex is pleasant to drive in any form, but the Limited's optional turbocharged V6 transforms this family wagon into a fire-breather.
With such a strong focus on utility, it's no surprise that the Flex generally prioritizes comfort over responsive handling. That said, the Flex's steering is responsive, and this boxy bus is rock-solid stable on the highway. Even over rough roads, occupants are well-isolated from ruts and bumps. Whether you're tackling the morning carpool or a coast-to-coast trek, the 2016 Ford Flex makes for a rewarding companion.
Interior
The 2016 Flex's boxy shape translates to a wealth of interior space, including genuinely adult-friendly accommodations in all three rows — a rare achievement, even in this size class. Accessing the rearmost seats is made easier by the auto-folding second-row passenger seat, while opting for the reclining-and-sliding second-row captain's chairs adds a nice dose of luxury with available seat heaters. A middle-row center console refrigerator is also offered, though it can only hold a few beverage cans at a time. Front-seat occupants will be particularly impressed by the Flex's high-quality materials, which remain above-average for the segment and wouldn't look out of place in the Flex's Lincoln platform-mate.
Perhaps the biggest complaint about previous Flex models concerned the problematic MyFord Touch infotainment system. With the new Sync 3 interface, the layout is simpler and responses are quicker. Ford has arrayed the system's virtual buttons at the bottom of the 8-inch touchscreen, and they're pretty easy to decipher and operate from the driver seat. You can also pinch and swipe for certain functions, just as you would on your smartphone or tablet.
There's 20 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seatbacks, which may not seem like much for such a large vehicle. In real-world usage, however, a deep well and numerous carrying hooks make up for the modest dimensions. If you keep the third row folded flat when it's not in use, you'll have a much handier 43.2 cubes at your disposal, while folding down both rear rows opens up 83.2 cubes. That's smaller than some rival SUVs, to be sure, but still highly functional thanks to the tall roof, flat load floor and squared-off shape.
2016 Ford Flex models
The 2016 Ford Flex is a large crossover/wagon that can seat either six or seven passengers and is available in SE, SEL and Limited trim levels.
The SE trim standard features include 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, rear parking sensors, heated mirrors with integrated blind-spot sections, rear privacy glass, a keyless-entry keypad, remote keyless entry, cruise control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, air-conditioning, a leather-wrapped tilt/telescoping steering wheel, cloth upholstery, a six-way power driver seat with manual recline and lumbar, 60/40-split folding second-row seats with an auto-folding passenger side, 50/50-split folding third-row seats, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, a 4.2-inch touchscreen, Sync voice activation and a six-speaker CD player with auxiliary and USB inputs.
The SEL trim dresses up the Flex with 18-inch wheels, upgraded brakes, foglights, chrome exterior trim, keyless entry and ignition, remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control with manual rear controls, wood interior trim, heated front seats, a 10-way power driver seat, a six-way power front passenger seat and the Sync 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, satellite radio and a second USB port.
The 2016 Ford Flex's available rear climate controls and power inputs help passengers enjoy themselves on long trips.
SEL models are eligible for the 201A option package that adds a 110-volt power outlet and a power liftgate. The 202A includes those items along with puddle lamps (integrated into the side mirrors), adjustable pedals, a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, leather upholstery (vinyl for the third row), driver memory settings and an upgraded seven-speaker audio system.
At the top of the range, the Limited trim includes the 201A and 202A packages plus 19-inch wheels, xenon headlights, LED taillights, power-folding mirrors, automatic wipers, additional metallic exterior trim, a wood-trimmed steering wheel, upgraded wood interior trim, a navigation system with real-time traffic (optional on SEL) and a 12-speaker Sony audio system with HD radio.
Available Limited options include the 301A package (adding an automatic parallel parking system, adaptive cruise control, frontal collision alert, a power-adjustable heated steering wheel, a 10-way power front passenger seat, cooled front seats and power-folding third-row seats).
Additional options, depending on trim and configuration, include 20-inch wheels, roof rails, a tow package, a panoramic sunroof, a refrigerated second-row center console compartment, heated second-row captain's chairs, inflatable second-row outboard seatbelts and a rear entertainment system.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3 out of 5 stars3/5Above Average
#9 out of 14 among Minivans
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Ford Flex from 2008-2022.$589/yr
vs. $549/yr
for Average Minivan
for Average Minivan
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.35x/yr
vs. 1.47x/yr
for Average Minivan
for Average Minivan
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).18.4%
vs. 12.5%
for Average Minivan
for Average Minivan
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2016 Ford Flex.
5 star(51%)
4 star(27%)
3 star(10%)
2 star(4%)
1 star(8%)
51 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.63 out of 5 stars
FLEX a great value
dranoel, 09/18/2013
2014 Ford Flex SEL 4dr Wagon (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
I've owned this 2014 FLEX
SEL for 2 months and have driven over 2600 miles. It continues to be what I expected, a solid, good handling, reliable vehicle that carries 7 people for short trips or 4 and too much luggage for longer trips. We average over 22 MPG on the road. It's more comfortable, handles better, and carries more than it's GM competitors, Buick Enclave and Chevy Traverse.
5 out of 5 stars
First Ford I have owned, LOVE it
Driven1, 06/16/2016
2015 Ford Flex SEL 4dr Wagon AWD (3.5L 6cyl 6A)
We had twins and needed to upgrade in size of vehicle. We will not drive a mini van and SUVs can be too large. We traded in a smaller Mercedes SUV, and we find this FLEX to be more comfortable and more features than our Benz. The Flex is a tremendous option for those who dont want a van but still would like to have a large rear door opening. The Flex is by far the most comfortable … driving car I have been in (including Audi, Cadillac and Benz). The seat is comfortable and the arm rests are in perfect spots. We have the adjustable pedals as well which are the icing on the cake.
PROS:
-size, amazing what you can fit in here. Back seat passengers have amazing leg room
-the tech. The backup camera alone is the best camera on a vehicle I have seen. Bright, great field of view and clear. (Cadillac's by comparison are terrible!) the options on this with a simple package are amazing. The Germans are pros at nickle and diming you for every single option that will add $10k to the price of the car when you are done.
-comfort - incredible how quiet a bigger vehicle like this is to drive. Steering is not too light, either.
-looks. - I know it is subjective, but with the Platinum package with black roof, black 20" rims and black badging, it really looks great )I highly suggest taking a look at this, for the standard package looks a lot different and "cheaper"
-features such as the adjustable pedals and power lift gate with the button on the side, rather than on the gate to have to reach up to hit, the folding rear seats that fold flat, and even when up, provide some trunk space (try that Suburbans)
-drives smaller than it is. AMAZING turning radius, better than most cars, makes it easy to park and manuever
-AWD system worked very well in the snow and with the traction control, provided a great winter driver
-completely changed my view of Ford. The design is incredibly well thought out. Several little things you find and say "well that is clever!" (like the 120 standard outlet in the rear of the center console.)
CONS:
-Gas mileage is on par with a larger SUV which is to say is much less than a mini van
-the memory seat and mirrors, cannot be used while not in park. Come on FORD! I know this is a "safety issue" but that just means i am scrambling to adjust my mirrors and seats as I am going down the road after my wife drives the vehicle (kinda annoying)
-sacrifice of not having a minivan, third row access is only by lifting middle seats up (there is an auto button to flip the seat up which is really nice, but cannot operate with a child seat. I believe there is a "captains chair" option for the rear/mid seats, but we have standard bench style)
All in all, we love the car and will be keeping this car. It is hard to beat in looks and comfort for the price with the amount of options it actually has.
4.13 out of 5 stars
Convinced the wife
trapper6mm, 04/26/2014
2014 Ford Flex Limited 4dr Wagon AWD w/EcoBoost (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A)
Although my wife thought the Flex was ugly, I convinced her to consider it along with the GMC Acadia in our shopping for a 3-row seating SUV. Once she drove it she was convinced the looks were not enough to keep us from buying one. She was not expecting to like it that much. I was impressed with the EcoBoost engine performance, the strong brakes, and very good ride and handling. It blew … away the Acadia once we had taken test drives in both.
The price of the EcoBoost AWD Flex is also very competitive with that of the Acadia Denali AWD.
4.75 out of 5 stars
1 &1/2 years later -2014 Limited Flex w/eco boost review
nai571, 05/17/2015
2014 Ford Flex Limited 4dr Wagon AWD w/EcoBoost (3.5L 6cyl Turbo 6A)
I traded I my Mercedes r350 for my 2014 limited w/eco boost Ford Flex and all in all I'm glad I did. While the Mercedes was solid as a tank, The ford flex styling is much more me. It's deceiving in that it looks like some slow mom/pop car but when I pull up to a red light and a luxury vehicle tries to out gun me, they are quickly left mouth open in my 365 horsepower dust. This mom/pop … car is pretty fast - and I love it. I love the color too, it's a unique white diamond tri coat (it's somewhat sparkly in the sun) and has a black roof. Very unique, although mini-cooper and Range Rover make a similar combination. Actually looking at it from the front the flex could pass as a Range Rover.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2016 Ford Flex, so we've included reviews for other years of the Flex since its last redesign.
2016 Flex Highlights
SE
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $29,600 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 19 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $230/month |
Seating | 7 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 20.0 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Flex include:
- Back-up camera
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of Rollover16.4%
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestAcceptable
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestGood
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintGood
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