Are Ford Flex good on gas?
Not particularly fuel-efficient for its size. Typical mpg sits in the high teens to mid-20s, depending on drivetrain and model year.
The Ford Flex was produced from 2009 through 2019 as a roomy three-row crossover. It prioritizes interior space and versatility over stellar fuel economy, so prospective buyers should weigh passenger/cargo needs against ongoing fuel costs. This article breaks down what you can expect from official figures, real-world driving, and practical tips to improve mileage.
Fuel economy by engine and drivetrain
Below are common ranges you’ll see for typical Flex configurations. Actual numbers vary by year, trim, tires, and driving habits.
- Front-wheel-drive with the 3.5-liter V6: roughly 16–17 mpg city and 23–24 mpg highway; about 19–20 mpg combined.
- All-wheel-drive with the 3.5-liter V6: roughly 16 mpg city and 22–23 mpg highway; about 18–19 mpg combined.
Conclusion: For a mid-sized three-row SUV, the Flex’s fuel economy is modest, and all-wheel drive typically reduces efficiency a bit further. If mileage is a top priority, consider smaller crossovers or rivals with four-cylinder engines.
Real-world performance considerations
In everyday use, many owners report fuel economy that trails the EPA estimates, especially with heavy loads, frequent short trips, or aggressive driving. On longer highway trips with light to moderate load, highway mpg can approach the mid-to-high 20s for some drivers, but urban driving and payload can pull average mileage down into the high teens. The trade-off is a spacious interior and flexible seating configuration that appeals to families and large groups.
Tips to maximize fuel efficiency
Simple, practical steps can help you extract more mileage from a Ford Flex without sacrificing utility.
- Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressures; underinflation increases rolling resistance.
- Limit roof rack use and remove unnecessary cargo to reduce aerodynamic drag.
- Use cruise control on highways and maintain steady speeds to conserve fuel.
- Avoid aggressive acceleration and heavy braking; smooth throttle application saves gas.
- Plan trips to minimize idling and combine errands to reduce cold starts and overall miles driven.
- Maintain regular maintenance: clean air filters, fresh spark plugs, and proper engine tune-ups help preserve mpg.
- Use the appropriate fuel grade and ensure proper wheel alignment; misalignment or improper fuel can degrade efficiency.
Bottom line: While small, incremental habits can boost efficiency, the Ford Flex remains a utility-focused vehicle, not a fuel-economy leader in its class.
How the Flex stacks up against similar three-row crossovers
Against rivals like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Mazda CX-9, the Flex generally trails in EPA-estimated mpg due to its heavier body and V6 powertrain. It compensates with a cavernous interior, flexible seating configurations, and strong towing/haul capacity. If fuel economy is a deciding factor, some competitors may offer better mileage while still providing three-row practicality.
Summary
The Ford Flex offers substantial interior space and flexible seating, but it is not a standout for gas mileage. Expect roughly 16–17 mpg in city driving and 22–24 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive, with AWD slightly lowering those numbers. Production ended after 2019, so buyers looking at a used Flex should weigh potential maintenance costs and parts availability. For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, exploring smaller crossovers or four-cylinder models may yield more economical options, while the Flex remains appealing for families who value comfort and capacity.
