2012 Ford Flex

2012 Ford Flex

2012 Ford Flex Call it a full-size station wagon if you will -- though Ford would prefer not to, opting for a full-size crossover moniker instead -- the Flex effectively fills the hole left by the Freestar minivan in Ford's line-up. 

Available in SE, SEL, Limited - and new for the latest model year, Titanium trim levels, this Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) is loaded with options for discerning buyers.

2012 Ford Flex

Powered by either Ford's award-wining (it was on Ward's 10 Best Engines list) 3.5-liter Duratec V6 engine making 262 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, or an optional (on some trim levels) 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine with twin-turbochargers and direct injection, boosting power significantly to 355 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, while the EcoBoost gains a SelectShift function with paddle shifters.

2012 Ford Flex

This boldly-styled people-mover will feature a standard seating capacity of six, with an optional split bench seat in the second row upping that number to seven. The only transmission option for now is a six-speed auto, suggesting relaxed highway cruising and associated fuel economy.

Because of the car's mission in life, safety is a huge part of the equation too, as the Flex sports Ford's AdvanceTrac with RSC electronic stability program across the range, along with six airbags.

2012 Ford Flex

The options list is long, presumably to suit the varying needs of families, and is comprised of niceties such as an interior refrigerator, second-row footrests, Ford Sync in-car communications and entertainment system, cap-less fueling, a 2,300-song MP3 player, voice-activated DVD navigation system, ceiling-mounted CD/DVD player, programmable ambient interior lighting and a Multi-Panel Vista Roof.

2012 Ford Flex

The Flex SE is equipped with the usual creature comforts such as power accessories and A/C, while the SEL adds Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control, 10-way power heated driver's seat and six-way power heated passenger seat, EasyFold 2nd row seats, a six-CD Sirius Satellite radio and a brighter exterior thanks to some chrome accents.
The previously range-topping Limited jazzes up the looks even more with larger, 19-inch polished wheels and even more chrome accents, heated and leather-trimmed seats in the first two rows, HID headlights and LED taillights, Ford's Sync Bluetooth- and digital audio device-interface system, and a Power Liftgate.
For those seeking nothing but the best wrapped in a sleek and stylish package, the newly added Flex Titanium is for you. This trim level adds to the Limited trim package with charcoal black leather-trimmed 1st and 2nd-row seats with Grey Alcantara Suede inserts. The steering wheel gets perforated leather with painted alloy metallic accents, as well as cruise and audio controls built-in.

2012 Ford Flex
The interior gets extra style with a circle check applique pattern on the dash and door inserts, along with illuminated scuff plats made of stainless steel. The outside of the Titanium gets a dose of black for the headlamps, tail lamps, mirror skull caps, roof and black chrome on the liftgate and grille. The Titanium rides on 20-inch polished aluminum wheels.

2012 Ford Flex