Why did Ford discontinue the Flex?
Ford discontinued the Flex, its large crossover SUV, in 2020 after a decade on the market. The decision was driven by declining sales and a shift in consumer preferences towards more fuel-efficient and smaller SUV models.
Declining Sales and Changing Consumer Preferences
The Ford Flex was introduced in 2008 as a unique and boxy alternative to traditional SUVs. However, its distinctive styling and large size failed to resonate with consumers in the long run. Sales of the Flex steadily declined over the years, from a high of over 38,000 units in 2009 to just 12,493 units in 2019, its final year of production.
This decline was partly due to a shift in consumer preferences towards smaller, more fuel-efficient SUV models. Buyers were increasingly drawn to the sleeker designs and better gas mileage of crossover SUVs like the Ford Explorer and Ford Escape, which offered similar functionality in a more compact package.
Lack of Updates and Competition
Another factor in the Flex's demise was Ford's lack of significant updates to the model over its 10-year lifespan. While competitors like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander received regular redesigns and updates, the Flex remained largely unchanged, making it appear outdated compared to newer offerings.
Additionally, the Flex faced stiff competition from Ford's own lineup of SUVs, which offered similar seating capacity and cargo space in a more modern and fuel-efficient package. This made it difficult for the Flex to stand out in a crowded market.
Conclusion
In the end, the combination of declining sales, changing consumer preferences, and a lack of updates led Ford to discontinue the Flex in 2020. The decision was part of the automaker's broader strategy to focus on its more popular and profitable SUV and truck models, leaving little room for the unique but aging Flex in its lineup.
Is Ford bringing the Flex back?
In short, no. Ford retired the Flex in 2019 after a decade-long run. But if you're looking for a new SUV with similar versatility, Ford's current SUV lineup has you covered with models that span from compact to full-size, all equipped with the latest in technology and performance.
What problems did the Ford Flex have?
Top Ford Flex Problems
- Broken Center Console Latch. 103 people have reported this.
- Brake Noise – Front Grunting / Grinding. 78 people have reported this.
- Transmission (Red) or Power Transfer Unit (PTU) (Brown) Fluid Leaks at Axle Area.
- A/C Fan Speed Changing Constantly.
- Rear Brakes Drag, Make Rhythmic Sound.
Are Ford Flex vehicles any good?
The Flex is a good car. It's reliable and well built. It just... well, it doesn't really excel at anything. It does a lot of things well enough, but there's nothing it's great at, other than polarizing people over its styling.
Why did Ford Flex discontinue?
The Flex was discontinued in 2019, yes, but it was due to poor sales. Ford wanted to sell 100K a year, and never even broke 40K.
