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Flex SUV might get another run before the company shots it down for good. The discontinuation plan was unveiled last year, but the COVID-19 outburst delays not only new arrivals but also the cuts. So, for some vehicle, the pandemic is a nightmare, while the 2021 Ford Flex will see it as the blessing in disguise, another chance to shine and keeps the spot in the lineup. However, without big changes, it will be hard to do.
The delay in the development of new models won’t turn the attention to the 2021 Ford Flex. Designers and engineers will continue to work on upcoming projects and concepts. So, the same old SUV will be offered to buyers. Well, slow sales are the main reason why the nameplate is in danger. Knowing Ford, the carmaker will probably redesign the SUV and rename in a couple of years. Still, there are no trusted or official sources to confirm these theories.
2021 Ford Flex Specs
The 2021 Ford Flex will get power from a 3.5-liter V6 engine. There will be two different configurations in the market. The base model is coming with 287 hp and 255 lb-ft of torque, which is the class-average. Still, the SUV requires premium fuel for the best performance and the fuel economy of 19 mpg combined. Also, engineers probably won’t replace a six-speed automatic transmission. Well, the old gearbox is not making the ride much better like it is the case with newer shifters. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive optional.
Another option is a twin-turbo setup. We got used to see it in a high-output version delivering 450 hp. However, for the 2021 Ford Flex, it will create only 365 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. The transmission is the same, while the AWD is the only drive available. Fuel consumption is even higher, so there is no surprise why the mid-size SUV is close to the discontinuation.
Diesel Engine
For many years, fans wanted to see a more efficient model. That is why Flex Diesel seemed to be an eligible option. Still, the company never did it. Well, next season it could finally happen, with a new turbodiesel unit available for the truck segment. Before Ford brings it to the more popular full-size class, a 3.0 V6 could be tested on the outgoing 2021 Ford Flex. The Blue Oval carmaker has nothing to lose. Well, a turbodiesel unit is capable of producing 260 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, and it can make the SUV one of the most capable models for towing. Plus, expect a boost in the fuel economy. The mileage could reach 25 mpg combined.
The only other drive type that can beat this is hybrid. However, changes in the 2021 Ford Flex won’t be so important. Also, the PHEV is already available for the much popular Explorer.
2021 Ford Flex Trim Levels
Another reason for slow sales could be the lack of options. The base version is SE, and there are only two other packages available for this SUV. The standard equipment includes the SYNC infotainment system and 17-inch wheels. By default, Flex is a seven-seater model. The SEL model upgrades the infotainment to the SYNC3 and adds heating for the seats in the front row. Wheels are larger and the safety is enhanced. Finally, there is the Limited package at the top of the lineup. In this bundle you will find 19-inch wheels and leather upholstery. Blind-spot monitors will make this model safer.
Competition
The 2021 Ford Flex is facing a lot of rivals. The mid-size segment is growing. Models with seven seats are especially popular. Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder are just a few interesting models that sell better. But, the major competition for the Flex could be found within the company. Ford Explorer is probably the hottest model on the market. It is new, comes with a fresh design and a new drivetrain. The hybrid version is going to burst more than 400 ponies, and it will also beat the competition in the gas mileage numbers.
2021 Ford Flex Prices
The Flex SE is going to be on the discount for the last appearance. Ford will offer it for $30,000. The SEL adds $3,000 and the Limited version is just under $40,000. Six different paintjobs are available to choose from. Agate Black, Oxford White, Magnetic, Stone Gray, Blue, and Ingot Silver are the base offer. You can also choose one of three premium paints – Ruby Red, Burgundy Velvet, and White Platinum, which will increase the price by $600. The good thing about Flex is the contrast roof color. Still, you can replace it with an investment worth of $1,600 – multi-panel Vista moonroof. The twin-turbo system increases the cost of the vehicle by nearly $8,000. So, heavily loaded, the Flex could cost nearly $50,000.
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