What kind of engine is in the Ford Flex?
The Ford Flex, a three-row crossover SUV produced from 2009 to 2019, relies on a naturally aspirated V6 engine — specifically a 3.5-liter Duratec Ti-VCT — paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. An EcoBoost turbocharged option was not offered on regular production Flex models. All-wheel drive was available on select trims, contributing to its capable everyday performance.
Engine options and specs
Here is a concise breakdown of the engine used in the Flex across its production run.
- 3.5-liter V6 Duratec Ti-VCT (non-turbo): The primary engine in most trims, delivering solid power and reliability for family and highway use. Ti-VCT refers to Twin Independent Variable Cam Timing, which enhances efficiency and response.
- No EcoBoost or hybrid option: Ford did not offer a turbocharged EcoBoost V6 or a hybrid drivetrain for the Flex in regular production, making the gasoline V6 the standard setup. All-wheel drive was available on some configurations with this engine.
- Transmission: A six-speed automatic transmission (with available manual shift or SelectShift on certain trims) paired with the V6 for smooth, predictable driving.
In practical terms, the Flex was designed around a straightforward, dependable gasoline V6 powertrain, prioritizing comfort and space for a family-oriented crossover rather than high-performance or ultra-efficient configurations.
Performance and context
While horsepower and torque varied slightly by year and model, the 3.5-liter Duratec V6 Ti-VCT provided adequate mid-range power for city driving and highway merging, along with respectable towing capability for its size. The absence of an EcoBoost option distinguishes the Flex from some contemporary Ford crossovers that adopted turbocharged engines to boost efficiency and output.
Summary
The Ford Flex uses a 3.5-liter V6 Duratec Ti-VCT engine with a six-speed automatic transmission, and an all-wheel-drive option was available on certain trims. There was no regular production EcoBoost or hybrid version of the Flex, which aligns with its mainstream, comfort-focused design. Produced from 2009 through 2019, the Flex offered reliable V6 power ideal for familias and long trips, but it ultimately ended its run as Ford shifted its lineup toward other crossover concepts.
