Why is the Ford Flex being discontinued?
The Ford Flex was discontinued after the 2019 model year because Ford ended production amid sagging sales, a market shift toward SUVs and crossovers, and a strategic push to prioritize higher-volume, more profitable trucks and utility vehicles.
When Ford launched the Flex in 2009, it offered a unique boxy, three-row crossover. By the late 2010s, consumer preferences leaned toward newer, more efficient crossovers, and Ford's product planning concluded that continuing the model would not align with profitability or the company's long-term lineup priorities, with 2019 marking the final model year.
Context: The Flex’s niche and sales trajectory
The Flex blended wagon-like practicality with SUV seating, targeting families who wanted three-row space without a traditional minivan. Its sales never matched Ford’s best-sellers, and its aging platform and modest feature updates made it difficult to justify ongoing production as competitors evolved.
Market forces that eroded demand
Below are the primary forces in the market that reduced demand for a niche model like the Flex.
- Growing demand for larger, more versatile crossovers and SUVs with modern styling and tech; the Flex's boxy shape started to look dated.
- Competition from other three-row crossovers that offered similar space at competitive prices or with newer powertrains.
- Slower sales: the Flex struggled to sustain sales at a level that justified continued production using Ford's resources.
- Shifting preferences away from traditional wagon-like designs toward more rugged or premium-looking crossovers.
Ford’s decision to retire the Flex reflected a broader industry trend away from niche passenger wagons and toward a streamlined lineup focused on high-volume, profitable models.
Design and niche appeal
In addition to market demand, the Flex’s distinctive, boxy styling and interior configuration became less aligned with consumer tastes that favored sleeker, more conventional crossovers by the mid-to-late 2010s.
Ford's strategic realignment
Ford has prioritized its most profitable segments—trucks and larger SUVs—while trimming car-based and niche models. The Flex did not fit cleanly into this strategy, whereas models like the Escape, Explorer, and Expedition continued to dominate sales and profitability for Ford’s SUV lineup.
Production and historical context
Introduced in 2009 as a distinct wagon-like crossover, the Flex was produced in North America and shared engineering with other Ford products. After 2019, Ford confirmed there would be no next-generation Flex, aligning with the company's portfolio simplification and focus on higher-demand vehicles.
Summary
In short, Ford discontinued the Flex because it no longer aligned with market demand or profitability targets. A combination of declining sales, a shift toward more popular crossovers and SUVs, and Ford's strategic realignment away from niche passenger wagons led to the decision to end production after the 2019 model year. The Flex’s retirement mirrors a broader industry trend toward standardized, high-demand utility vehicles.
Why did Ford get rid of the Flex?
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.
Is Amazon selling Ford cars?
Online transaction. And the local Ford dealership handles the rest in 2023 Hyundai announced it would sell new cars on Amazon.
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 Ford bringing back the Ford Flex in 2025?
Styling. Expect bold color choices. And a more premium road presence this new flex is built on Ford's updated global C to platform.
