The 2019 Ford Flex is a unique and often overlooked vehicle in the automotive landscape. With its distinctive boxy design, it stands out from the crowd of rounded SUVs and crossovers. But is it a good car? That depends on what you're looking for. In this article, we'll delve into the details of the 2019 Ford Flex, exploring its pros and cons, to help you determine if it's the right choice for you and your family. Let's dive in, guys!

Overview of the 2019 Ford Flex

The 2019 Ford Flex is a full-size, three-row crossover SUV that offers seating for up to seven passengers. It's known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available all-wheel drive. The Flex comes in three trim levels: SE, SEL, and Limited. Each trim offers a different level of features and amenities, allowing buyers to choose the model that best fits their needs and budget. The Flex has been praised for its distinctive styling, which sets it apart from other SUVs on the market. Its boxy shape provides ample headroom and cargo space, making it a practical choice for families. However, its polarizing design isn't for everyone, and some may find it outdated compared to more modern SUVs.

Engine and Performance

Under the hood, the 2019 Ford Flex offers two engine options. The base engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 287 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque. This engine provides adequate power for most driving situations and offers decent fuel economy. For those seeking more power, the Flex is also available with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that cranks out 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This engine delivers brisk acceleration and makes the Flex feel more responsive. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Flex offers a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. It handles well for its size, but it's not exactly sporty. The available all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in inclement weather. Overall, the 2019 Ford Flex offers a competent and comfortable driving experience, although it may not be the most exciting vehicle on the road.

Interior and Features

One of the 2019 Ford Flex's strongest suits is its spacious and well-designed interior. The cabin is roomy and comfortable, with plenty of space for passengers in all three rows. Even adults can comfortably sit in the third row, which is a rarity in many SUVs. The Flex also offers a generous amount of cargo space, with 20 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 43.2 cubic feet behind the second row, and a massive 83.2 cubic feet with both rows folded down. The interior design is simple and functional, with easy-to-use controls and a logical layout. The base SE trim comes with standard features such as cloth upholstery, a rearview camera, and a 4.2-inch display screen. The SEL trim adds features like heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The top-of-the-line Limited trim includes leather upholstery, a navigation system, a premium sound system, and a power liftgate. Overall, the 2019 Ford Flex offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior that is perfect for families.

Reliability and Safety

When it comes to reliability, the 2019 Ford Flex has a mixed reputation. Some owners have reported issues with the vehicle's electrical system, while others have had no problems at all. It's always a good idea to check reliability ratings and read owner reviews before making a purchase. In terms of safety, the 2019 Ford Flex performs well in crash tests. It earned a four-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The Flex also comes with a variety of safety features, including antilock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. Available safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. While the Flex may not be the most reliable vehicle on the market, it does offer good safety ratings and a decent array of safety features. Therefore, the 2019 Ford Flex is a safe vehicle for families.

Pros and Cons of the 2019 Ford Flex

To help you make a more informed decision, let's take a look at the pros and cons of the 2019 Ford Flex.

Pros:

• Spacious Interior: The Flex offers plenty of room for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for families.
• Comfortable Ride: The Flex provides a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads.
• Available All-Wheel Drive: The available all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability in inclement weather.
• Unique Styling: The Flex's boxy design sets it apart from other SUVs on the market.
• Powerful Engine Option: The available EcoBoost V6 engine delivers brisk acceleration and makes the Flex feel more responsive.

Cons:

• Polarizing Design: The Flex's boxy design isn't for everyone, and some may find it outdated.
• Mixed Reliability: The Flex has a mixed reliability reputation, with some owners reporting issues.
• Outdated Infotainment System: The Flex's infotainment system is not as modern or user-friendly as those found in some newer vehicles.
• Poor Fuel Economy: The Flex's fuel economy is below average for its class.
• No Standard Advanced Safety Features: Many advanced safety features, such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning, are not available on the base model.

Is the 2019 Ford Flex a Good Car for You?

So, is the 2019 Ford Flex a good car? The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking for a spacious and comfortable SUV with a unique design, the Flex may be a good choice. It's perfect for families who need plenty of room for passengers and cargo. However, if you're concerned about reliability or fuel economy, you may want to consider other options. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2019 Ford Flex is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it feels. Consider what you value most in a vehicle. If space, comfort, and unique styling are high on your list, the Flex is definitely worth a look. Just be sure to do your research and be aware of its potential drawbacks. For some, the 2019 Ford Flex provides a nostalgic reminder of the past, for others it's simply a spacious and comfortable ride.

Alternatives to the 2019 Ford Flex

If you're not completely sold on the 2019 Ford Flex, there are several other SUVs and crossovers that you may want to consider. Some popular alternatives include:

• Chevrolet Traverse: The Traverse is a large, three-row SUV that offers plenty of space and a comfortable ride.
• Honda Pilot: The Pilot is a well-rounded SUV that is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency.
• Toyota Highlander: The Highlander is another popular three-row SUV that offers a comfortable ride and a long list of features.
• Kia Telluride: The Telluride is a stylish and well-equipped SUV that has quickly become a favorite among families.
• Hyundai Palisade: The Palisade is the Telluride's corporate cousin and offers a similar combination of style, features, and value.

Conclusion

The 2019 Ford Flex is a distinctive and practical SUV that offers a lot of value for the right buyer. Its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and available all-wheel drive make it a great choice for families. However, its polarizing design, mixed reliability, and outdated infotainment system may be turn-offs for some. Before making a decision, be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and consider your individual needs and preferences. Whether or not the 2019 Ford Flex is a good car depends entirely on what you're looking for in a vehicle. Hopefully, this article has given you a better understanding of the 2019 Ford Flex and helped you decide if it's the right car for you. Happy car shopping, guys!