What vehicle is comparable to Ford Flex?

A close match is the Honda Pilot. The Ford Flex, with its boxy, three-row design, sits in the same general class as other family-friendly three-row crossovers.

Since Ford discontinued the Flex after the 2019 model year, buyers now look to similar-size, practical alternatives that offer seating for seven or eight, ample cargo space, and versatile interiors. This article highlights several models that are commonly compared to the Flex in size, layout, and family-friendly features.

Overview of the Ford Flex and its peers

The Ford Flex offered a distinctive boxy silhouette along with a roomy interior and flexible cargo space. It shared a class with other three-row crossovers and some larger SUVs that prioritize practicality over sportiness. While the Flex itself is no longer in production, the segment remains active with several current models that provide similar seating capacity and cargo flexibility.

Comparable models

Below are several key rivals that offer three-row seating and a similar footprint to the Ford Flex, making them suitable alternatives for families needing space and flexibility.

• Honda Pilot — spacious interior with flexible seating and strong reliability.


• Toyota Highlander — refined ride, available hybrid, solid resale value.


• Nissan Pathfinder — roomy cabin and easy-to-use tech.


• Chevrolet Traverse — large cargo area and roomy third row, with a strong V6 option.


• Hyundai Palisade — modern interior, generous standard features, and comfortable ride.


• Kia Telluride — highly regarded for value, upscale cabin, and smooth performance.


• Buick Enclave — upscale interior and quiet ride with spacious seating.


• GMC Acadia — adaptable mid-size offering with comfortable seating and tech options.

In sum, these vehicles capture the essence of the Ford Flex's appeal—functional interiors, up to three rows of seating, and adaptable cargo space—though each brings its own emphasis on efficiency, technology, or luxury.

Category-by-category comparison

Interior space

Interior measurements vary, but the Pilot, Highlander, and Pathfinder typically offer ample second- and third-row legroom, while the Traverse, Enclave, Acadia, Palisade, and Telluride emphasize generous cargo space and flexible seating configurations depending on the trim level.

Powertrain and efficiency

V6 and hybrid options appear across these models. The Highlander offers a dedicated hybrid variant, while Palisade and Telluride provide potent V6 options or efficient turbocharged engines. The Pilot and Pathfinder balance power with respectable fuel economy, though exact numbers depend on configuration and drivetrain.

Technology and safety

Newer models emphasize driver-assistance suites and modern infotainment, with features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and smartphone integration. Higher trims add premium audio, larger displays, and advanced safety packages that push beyond what the Ford Flex offered.

Summary

For those seeking a direct replacement for the Ford Flex, the Honda Pilot remains a strong go-to, with other solid options including the Toyota Highlander, Nissan Pathfinder, Chevrolet Traverse, Hyundai Palisade, and Kia Telluride. The best choice depends on priorities such as cargo flexibility, ride quality, efficiency, and available features. Today’s market offers several well-rounded three-row crossovers that replicate the Flex’s practical appeal while delivering modern technology and safety.

Why did Ford stop making Ford Flex?

The Ford Flex was discontinued primarily because of low sales and a shift in consumer demand towards more traditional SUVs with higher ride heights. Ford discontinued the vehicle as part of a larger strategy to focus its resources on more popular and profitable vehicles like trucks and SUVs. 
You can watch this video to learn more about why the Ford Flex was discontinued: 35sEveryman DriverYouTube · Nov 6, 2019

• Weak sales: The Flex never met sales expectations, with its highest sales year in 2009 with around 38,000 units, far short of Ford's 100,000-unit target. 
• Changing market trends: Consumers began preferring higher-riding, more rugged-looking SUVs and crossovers over the Flex's unique, low-slung design. 
• Strategic realignment: Ford decided to streamline its lineup by discontinuing less popular models to focus on profitable segments, such as its truck and SUV offerings. 
• Increased competition: The three-row SUV market saw increased competition from other automakers, making it harder for the Flex to stand out. 

What is similar to Flex car?

Alternatives to a service like Flexcar (which is now part of Zipcar) include other car-sharing platforms like Turo, traditional rental companies like Avis and Hertz, and car subscription services like FINN or SIXT+. The best alternative depends on whether you need short-term, long-term, or subscription-based vehicle access. 
Car sharing and rental

• Zipcar: As the successor to Flexcar, it offers car sharing by the hour or day with a membership that includes gas, maintenance, and insurance. 
• Turo: A peer-to-peer car-sharing marketplace where you can rent cars directly from private owners, offering a wide variety of vehicles. 
• Avis, Hertz, and Thrifty: Traditional car rental companies that offer a wide range of vehicles for both short-term and long-term rentals. 
• Kyte: Delivers a car directly to you and picks it up when you're finished, providing a convenient alternative to going to a rental counter. 

Car subscriptions

• FINN: A company that provides a car subscription service, with a fixed monthly price that includes insurance, maintenance, taxes, and registration. 
• SIXT+: Offers a monthly car subscription with flexibility to cancel or pause, and includes maintenance and insurance. 
• Carvolution: A similar car subscription service that includes insurance, registration, taxes, and maintenance in a fixed monthly price, with support available via an app. 

What is the most common problem with the Ford Flex?

Top Ford Flex Problems

• Broken Center Console Latch.
• Brake Noise – Front Grunting / Grinding.
• Transmission (Red) or Power Transfer Unit (PTU) (Brown) Fluid Leaks at Axle Area.
• A/C Fan Speed Changing Constantly.
• Ford Flex window and door trim detachment issue requiring multiple panel replacements.

Is there a Lincoln version of the Ford Flex?

The Lincoln version of the Ford Flex is the Lincoln MKT, a luxury crossover that shares the same platform but features a more upscale design, premium interior, and additional features. While the MKT had a more stylish and luxurious look, it sacrificed some of the Flex's practicality, particularly with a smaller third row and less cargo space due to a sloping roofline.
 
You can watch this video to learn more about the Lincoln MKT vs Ford Flex comparison: 59sInsideLineVideoYouTube · Dec 17, 2009

• Shared Platform: The MKT is built on the same D4 platform as the Ford Flex. 
• Design and Interior: The MKT has a more formal and sophisticated design with a plush, quiet interior and higher-end features like standard leather seats and a premium audio system. 
• Performance: Both models could be equipped with the powerful EcoBoost engine, but the MKT often came standard with AWD, while the Flex was available with FWD. 
• Practicality: The MKT's sloping rear roofline reduced both third-row legroom and cargo space compared to the more utilitarian Flex. 
• Features: The MKT typically included more luxury and technology features, such as heated and ventilated front seats, memory seats, and advanced driver-assist options. 

This video shows the exterior features of a Ford Flex: 54sStatewide FordYouTube · Apr 24, 2019