Review: 2010 Ford Flex
#17
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Thanks. ![Smilie](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
Keep in mind, though, even money aside, that Land Rover products are notorious for spending more time in the repair shop than out.
2 more seats? Gee...how big is your family?
The Flex, as it is, can seat at least 7 people, providing that the two in the 3rd-row seat are children or small adults.
Though the standard engine/transmission, as I noted in the review, is pretty impressive, if you're going to regularly drive with 7 people in it, especially in steep or hilly areas, you may want to consider the Ecoboost.
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I love the flex simply b/c it's a damn good looking suv ala pseudo Range Ranger sport for half the price
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Sucks that we need 2 more seats![Sad](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/sad.gif)
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![Uhh...](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/1387914497.gif)
Though the standard engine/transmission, as I noted in the review, is pretty impressive, if you're going to regularly drive with 7 people in it, especially in steep or hilly areas, you may want to consider the Ecoboost.
#18
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#19
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except you can't get an RX350 out the door for 40k. but comparing a fully loaded flex with a 'base' RX350 doesn't make much sense nor is it realistic because dealers NEVER sell base RX350s.
it's so not loaded it's not even possible.![Smilie](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
since a 40k new RX isn't possible, a loaded 40k highlander is preferable.
it's so not loaded it's not even possible.
![Smilie](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
since a 40k new RX isn't possible, a loaded 40k highlander is preferable.
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But, as for a 40K RX Hybrid, you're right............forget it.
#20
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Thanks. ![Smilie](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
Yes, they are "progressive" in the sense that the harder you push, the more you stop (as with virtually all brakes), but I found the pedal very spongy and ineffective....especially compared to a number of German vehicles I've tried. I've noticed that pattern on a number of Ford/GM-designed trucks and SUVs....though it is better than in the past.
They could put a little quicker ratio into the rack and steering system...the response with the present system, even though it is not supposed to be a sports car, is quite slow. Steering response is not always suspension or tire-related....sometimes it is a function of the worm-ratio gearing in the steering rack itself. In many modern vehicles, it can also vary by vehicle speed and/or engine RPM.
How would you compare it to your Explorer? ![Uhh...](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/1387914497.gif)
Somewhat like a grown-up Scion xB.
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i've had a flex as a loaner from the dealer so got to use a 'worn in' one for a couple of days. i disagree with you on the brakes. i found them, like my explorer and like the f-150 to be 'progressive' but firm once the pedal goes down if you need big stopping.
steering is light but this isn't supposed to be driven like a sports car as you know.
overall i just found the flex to be very much a 'no brainer' to drive around, big but still easy to maneuver, TONS of space, and i liked the controls.
![Uhh...](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/1387914497.gif)
looks are a bit funky, but not terrible.
#21
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good review as always mmarshal. I like the Flex a lot the Edmunds/Insideline has one in there fleet and that made it a lot more intresting because of all the good compliments they gave it. I saw a base one in red at a local hotel and it looked horrible. The wheels on the base model look horrible... how much is the ecoboost option?
#22
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Thanks. ![Smilie](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
I agree. Except for the somewhat spongy brakes, poor brake pedal location, and road noise on coarse-surface roads, I found it a quite well-designed and competent vehicle. ![Thumb Up](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/thumbsup.gif)
I can't comment on the specific base one you saw, but the Limited model, especially with the two-tone roof option, adds some bling and, IMO, contributes to the car's looks.
For the Ecoboost option and package prices, check the "Build your own" feature on Ford's website. It gives the official factory pricing. The Ecoboost option prices seems to vary with the trim model ordered, but generally runs between $1500-$2000. What you may pay for it, however, may also depend on what the local dealer asks for it, because of the Ecoboost's order-only policy and supply/demand issues.
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I like the Flex a lot the Edmunds/Insideline has one in there fleet and that made it a lot more interesting because of all the good compliments they gave it.
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I saw a base one in red at a local hotel and it looked horrible. The wheels on the base model look horrible... how much is the ecoboost option?
For the Ecoboost option and package prices, check the "Build your own" feature on Ford's website. It gives the official factory pricing. The Ecoboost option prices seems to vary with the trim model ordered, but generally runs between $1500-$2000. What you may pay for it, however, may also depend on what the local dealer asks for it, because of the Ecoboost's order-only policy and supply/demand issues.
#23
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One of my friends pointed out that I did not mention the drink-cooler built into the console, which is an option on some models, so I'll bring that up here.
#24
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How would you compare it to your Explorer?
![Uhh...](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/1387914497.gif)
![Stick Out Tongue](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/tongue.gif)
the flex's v6 (i didn't have an ecoboost) was quite adequate but the v8 in my explorer is great, although the transmission in the flex is smoother than the one in the explorer. but i still love the sound and responsiveness of the v8. it's one of my little pleasures in life.
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the explorer is VERY quiet inside when in motion, quieter than the flex i'd say.
my explorer limited interior looks a bit more 'formal' or something than the flex, the latter with it's silver plastic (which i don't like on any car) and the blue instrumentation. i wish my explorer had sync though (wasn't available on '06 model i have) - that seems really great.
space wise the flex may be a bit wider and maybe a touch longer and of course is a big 'box' - great for cargo. the explorer has the most front leg room of ANY vehicle i've ever been in though, a consideration for my long extremities (6'3").
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Somewhat like a grown-up Scion xB.
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i think you reviewed the Edge before too? with ford having the edge, the flex, and the explorer, and of course the escape and expedition, it seems a bit much in the suv department!!! but each has its market niche though. besides the expedition my explorer can out tow all the others easily.
#26
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the flex's v6 (i didn't have an ecoboost) was quite adequate but the v8 in my explorer is great, although the transmission in the flex is smoother than the one in the explorer. but i still love the sound and responsiveness of the v8. it's one of my little pleasures in life.
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good description.
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![Smilie](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
i think you reviewed the Edge before too?
with ford having the edge, the flex, and the explorer, and of course the escape and expedition, it seems a bit much in the suv department!!! but each has its market niche though. besides the expedition my explorer can out tow all the others easily.
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