2009 Ford Flex

The 2009 Ford Flex is a three-row crossover utility vehicle capable of carrying up to seven passengers. It's available in three different trim levels, two of which can be ordered with all-wheel drive. The base Ford Flex SE model costs $28,995 – including $700 destination –comes with the same 262-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission available in all Ford Flex models. All-wheel drive is only available on the more expensive Ford Flex SEL ($32,770) and Limited ($35,405) models for an additional $1,850.
The 2009 Ford Flex SE is nicely equipped, considering it's the base model. Standard features include a reverse sensing system, six-way power driver's seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel with cruise and audio controls, and rear-seat air conditioning. The Flex SEL adds standard heated leather seats with 10-way power adjustment for the driver, dual-zone automatic climate control, an upgraded audio system, and fake wood trim. The Limited adds to that with standard driver's seat memory, standard Sync (Ford's voice-activated in-car mobile phone and audio system), ambient lighting, wood inlay on the steering wheel and laminated front glass for a quieter ride. Options include a trailer towing package for $570; Flex SEL models offer a $985 Convenience package that bundles a power liftgate, power pedals with memory; SEL and Limited models can be equipped with the multi-panel Vista Roof for $1,495, a refrigerator between the rear seats for $760, and a navigation system for $2,375.
Overall we're quite fond of the 2009 Ford Flex. It offers up unique styling in the segment, but without sacrificing the utility one expects from a vehicle of this sort. The Ford Flex is roomy, comfortable and looks good. It has lots of different options to keep shoppers satisfied by customizing their Flex to their individual tastes. We wish the fuel economy were better, and are guessing that if you skip the all-wheel drive (we don't think it's necessary in this vehicle) and go easy on the throttle, gas mileage would probably improve. In the test car we drove, we also found a few fit and finish issues, and wished some of the interior plastics were better. Regardless, this is one big crossover SUV that's definitely worth a close look.