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2016 Ford Flex Review – Honest Owner Feedback
The Enduring Appeal of the Ford Flex: Why This Discontinued SUV Still Wins Hearts
Featured Insight: Despite Ford ending production in 2019, the Flex maintains a loyal following thanks to its exceptional passenger space (up to 83.2 cu ft with seats folded), comfortable highway manners, and unique retro-modern styling that stands out in a sea of conventional SUVs.
A Spacious Solution for Active Families
The Ford Flex carved out a distinctive niche in the crossover market with its wagon-like profile and boxy dimensions that prioritized interior volume over aerodynamic styling. Measuring 201.8 inches long with a 117.9-inch wheelbase, the three-row Flex offered:
- Class-leading legroom: 44.3 inches in front, 43.2 inches in second row
- Configurable cargo space: 20 cu ft behind third row, 43.2 cu ft with third row folded, 83.2 cu ft maximum
- Flat-load floor: Unique among SUVs for easy loading of bulky items
- Available refrigerated console: Rare feature perfect for road trips
Why Families Still Choose the Flex
While newer SUVs have adopted swooping rooflines that compromise interior space, the Flex's upright design delivers exceptional functionality that modern families appreciate:
"After test-driving every three-row SUV on the market, we kept coming back to the used Flex we found. The low step-in height makes it easier for my elderly parents, while the sliding second-row seats help accommodate rear-facing car seats. The square shape means we can actually fit a full-size stroller behind the third row—something impossible in our friend's newer SUV." — Sarah K., verified MotorVero reviewer
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Performance and Handling: More Capable Than Expected
Beneath its practical exterior, the Ford Flex offered two compelling powertrain options:
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Towing Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5L V6 | 287 hp | 254 lb-ft | 4,500 lbs |
| 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | 365 hp | 350 lb-ft | 4,500 lbs |
The available all-wheel-drive system (standard on EcoBoost models) combined with the long wheelbase provided surprisingly confident handling in various conditions. Owners particularly praise:
- Highway stability from the long wheelbase
- Confident passing power from the EcoBoost engine
- Smooth ride quality that outperforms truck-based SUVs
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Technology That Aged Well
Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system, introduced in 2016, gave the Flex modern tech credentials:
- Responsive 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone-like pinch-to-zoom
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Available 12-speaker Sony audio system
- Standard rearview camera with available 180-degree front camera
"The SYNC 3 system in our 2017 Flex works better than the new systems in many 2023 vehicles we've rented. The voice commands actually understand my Midwest accent, and the screen responds instantly—no waiting for menus to load like in some newer luxury cars." — Michael T., verified MotorVero reviewer
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Why Ford Discontinued the Flex
Despite its virtues, several market forces led to the Flex's demise:
- Changing consumer tastes: Buyers shifted toward more rugged-looking SUVs
- Production constraints: Built in the same Ontario plant as the profitable Ford Edge
- Declining sales: Peaked at 38,717 units in 2013 before dropping steadily
- Explorer redesign: The 2020 Explorer offered similar space with more contemporary styling
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What Owners Say: Real-World Experiences
MotorVero's analysis of hundreds of owner reviews reveals consistent praise for:
- Long-term reliability: Many report trouble-free ownership past 150,000 miles
- Comfort on long trips:
- Unique styling: Owners appreciate standing out from cookie-cutter SUVs
- Practical features: Particularly the refrigerated console and power-folding third row
Common criticisms include:
- Wide turning radius challenging in tight spaces
- Fuel economy averaging just 18-20 mpg combined
- Some interior materials feel budget-grade compared to newer SUVs
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How the Flex Compares to Modern Alternatives
For shoppers considering a used Flex versus newer three-row SUVs:
| Vehicle | Cargo Space (max) | 3rd Row Legroom | Starting Price (used) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ford Flex (2019) | 83.2 cu ft | 33.2 in | $25,000 |
| 2023 Honda Pilot | 86.6 cu ft | 31.9 in | $40,000 |
| 2023 Hyundai Palisade | 86.4 cu ft | 31.4 in | $38,000 |
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Should You Buy a Used Ford Flex?
The Flex makes most sense for:
- Families prioritizing interior space over fuel economy
- Buyers who appreciate distinctive styling
- Those needing towing capacity in a comfortable package
- Shoppers wanting premium features at used-car prices
We recommend focusing on 2016-2019 models for the improved SYNC 3 system and refreshed styling. The EcoBoost engine delivers noticeably stronger performance with minimal fuel economy penalty.
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Share Your Ford Flex Experience
Help other shoppers by sharing your firsthand ownership experience:
- Visit MotorVero's Reviews page
- Select Ford, Flex, and your model year
- Click "Write a Review"
- Rate your vehicle across seven key categories
- Share detailed comments (minimum 100 words)
- Submit for publication
Your insights help create the most comprehensive resource for car shoppers nationwide. We value all perspectives—what you love, what you'd improve, and how the vehicle performs in daily use.
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Last Updated On Aug, 05-2025