2017 Ford Flex Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

With the ability to seat up to seven passengers, the 2017 Ford Flex remains a great choice for large families. There are a lot of people who will like this crossover’s wagon-like styling and remarkably spacious cabin. When equipped with the optional AWD system, the Ford Flex becomes a better vehicle for traveling in wintry weather.

What’s New for 2017?

Ford no longer offers a rear-seat refrigerator for the 2017 Ford Flex. No other notable changes were made to the new model.
 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2017 Ford Flex – The Pros

1. Dependable Base Engine

Most drivers will not complain about the performance of the base V-6 engine. Ford tuned it to produce a commendable 287 horsepower and 254 pound-feet of torque. When needed, you will be able to tow up to 4,500 pounds. It can easily handle the daily grind without sacrificing any durability. A six-speed automatic transmission comes standard.

2. Very Powerful EcoBoost Engine

If you demand an extra measure of performance, step up to the 3.5L EcoBoost engine. The turbocharged V-6 engine kicks out an exciting 365 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. It definitely makes the 2017 Ford Flex more entertaining to drive. When accelerating from a standstill, the SUV can hustle to 60 mph in a brisk 6.1 seconds.

3. Stable Handling

You will likely be thoroughly impressed by the Ford Flex’s stable handling. It has a very secure feeling on the highway. This is a major advantage for the people who prefer a SUV that drives more like a sedan. You will love taking the Flex on an out-of-town trip. Even when traveling on rural roads, the crossover remains poised.

4. Sharp Styling

In terms of styling, the 2017 Ford Flex truly has a unique appearance. Its boxy design looks attractive and modern. Very few crossovers have a more distinctive front grille. Dual exhaust tips come standard. Featuring a set of 20-inch black wheels and blacked-out exterior trim, the Appearance package gives the Flex even more flair. Some of the cool paint colors include Burgundy Velvet, White Platinum, and Ruby Red.

5. Extremely Roomy

All versions of the 2017 Ford Flex feature a third-row seat. Everyone in your family will be rewarded with lots of legroom. The crossover’s boxy shape ensures the maximum amount of headroom. Drivers can also transform the Flex into an impressive cargo hauler. When all of the rear seats are pushed flat, you will have more than 43 cubic feet of storage space.

6. Vista Roof

The optional Vista Roof makes the 2017 Ford Flex into a more exciting family vehicle. It surrounds the cabin with a total of four skylights. A power moonroof sits atop the front passengers. Everyone in your family will be able to enjoy the view. Meanwhile, shades help keep sunlight from bothering young children.

7. Nicely Equipped SEL Model

The mid-level 2017 Ford Flex SEL proves to be a fantastic deal. It has a starting price of $32,500, which is roughly $2,500 more than the base model. Some of the upgrades include a Ford’s impressive Sync 3 infotainment system, heated front seats, and a dual-zone climate control system. You will also benefit from remote start, which will come in handy on cold days. A 60,000-mile powertrain warranty protects your investment.

8. Sync 3 Interface

Ford’s Sync 3 infotainment system has become one of the best units of the market. A well-designed menu and a responsive touch-screen display make it extremely easy to use. Furthermore, the interface processes information faster than ever before. To keep smartphone users satisfied, the system now comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

9. Safe SUV

Your family will feel safe inside of the 2017 Ford Flex. It continues to offer good outward visibility and solid crash protection. A rear-view camera and an emergency communications system come standard. In the event of a potential crash, the optional forward collision warning system will automatically prime the brakes. Blind-spot monitoring is offered as well.

10. Versatile Family Vehicle

Whether you are dropping your kids off at school or taking a vacation to the beach, the 2017 Ford Flex will get the job done. When outfitted with the available towing package, you will be able to easily pull a pair of personal watercrafts.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2017 Ford Flex – The Cons

1. Below Average Fuel Economy

According to the EPA, the Ford Flex will return 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. However, keep in mind that the more potent EcoBoost engine is even less efficient. The crossover’s overall fuel economy is on par with many of today’s full-size pickup trucks.

2. Not a Good Off-Road Vehicle

If you plan to take an off-road adventure, the Ford Flex is not the best choice. Its low ground clearance and lack of undercarriage protection will pose a problem. You will feel more confident in an SUV such as the Ford Explorer.

3. Lacks Some Advanced Driving Aids

While the Flex is a secure family hauler, it fails to offer some of the latest safety technologies. Autonomous braking and lane-keeping technology are not available. This could be a disappointment for the car shoppers who desire the most advanced driving aids.

How it stacks up to the competition:

Some of the rival three-row crossovers include the Mazda CX-9 and the Dodge Durango. The Ford Flex’s superior passenger room gives it a key advantage over these vehicles. Even your third-row passengers will have plenty of space in the Flex. It is also noticeably more powerful than the Mazda CX-9.

Conclusion:

You are destined to like this crossover’s comfortable interior and secure driving dynamics. Furthermore, it looks completely different from any other vehicle in the segment. Although some of its rivals return better gas mileage, the 2017 Ford Flex is not terribly inefficient on the open highway. The fully loaded Limited trim is especially luxurious.