The 2020 Ford Flex will be the last edition of this mid-size SUV. The company is putting all efforts into the new Explorer and the full-size Expedition. On the other hand, Flex never met expectations of chiefs and fans, so the discontinuation is not a surprise. Edition for 2019 will be unchanged. So, even the hard-core fans are now realizing the end is near.
The 2020 Ford Flex still has something to offer you won’t find elsewhere. For example, access to the SUV is very easy. On the other hand, low stance is not allowing too much fun off the road. Flex is offering the best in class legroom for passengers in the middle row. Also, there is enough space for occupants on the rear bench. The downside is a poor interior without some significant updates for ages. Still, there is a lot of optional features, such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Sync 3 infotainment, parking sensors, and many other safety upgrades. Turbocharged V6 is a beast under the hood. But, the base drivetrain is a naturally-aspirated model with 290 hp and very poor fuel economy.
2020 Ford Flex Trim Levels
There are only three trim levels available for the new 2020 Ford Flex. The base SUV is SE with 17-inch wheels and reverse sensors as highlights. Standard SYNC with poor audio comes along. Well, the price of the model is the advantage, but if we compare it to other vehicles, we will see it is too high. The SEL steps up with some serious upgrades. First of all, there is a cool SYNC3 infotainment. Larger wheels outside are making another difference to the base SE trim. Inside, you will get heating for front seats. Limited model is bringing to most of the Flex. Blind-spot system and 19-inch wheels are highlights. Leather seats and power tailgate are some of the advanced upgrades for this mid-size model.
2020 Ford Flex Specs
The 2020 Ford Flex will use a 3.5-liter V6 engine as the only source of power. At its base setup, the drivetrain is capable to return 290 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. At the same time, it consumes a lot of fuel. Flex is returning only 18 mpg combined with the rear-wheel drive. Well, the SUV is slightly heavier thanks to the body on frame platform and independent rear and front suspension systems. Ford mates the V6 engine with an old six-pace transmission. That is a huge indicator of Flex’ position in the company’s pecking order.
The SUV will still offer some muscles with a twin-turbo V6 engine. In this case, a 3.5- displacement will throw out 365 hp and 350 pound-feet of torque. Also, the power goes to all wheels only through the same gearbox. The fuel economy is very poor and the 2020 Flex will consume 17 mpg combined. Maximum towing capacity for this SUV is 5,000 pounds.
What’s Next For Ford?
Flex came to its last run. But, what will the company do next? Another SUV is on the way and we believe that the arrival of the Bronco is killing it. It has sense since the SUV returns to compete with Toyota 4Runner, which is one of the most capable models for an off-road drive. Bronco will be a competitor that Flex never was. Also, its sales were far behind the competition and siblings. With others selling over 100,000 units, Flex managed to sell only 22k copies in 2018. Its peak was in the first complete year.
2020 Ford Flex Prices
The new 2020 Ford Flex will cost barely more than $30,000. But, the SE model is not competitive with the Honda Pilot or Toyota Highlander. Its aging look and the lack of features are some of the reasons for slow sales. The SEL will be available for $33,000 and the Limited edition is just shy of $39,000. With some upgrades, it still can reach some respectable offer and the MSRP of $45,000. For its final edition, Ford might make a surprise for fans by adding King Ranch or Platinum version. However, this is only speculation.
