When it comes to redefining the crossover market, it’s hard to find a better example of the future of this segment than the 2010 Ford Flex with EcoBoost. The largest crossover vehicle in the Ford lineup, the Flex is a triumph of style, engineering and practicality that aims to offer those buyers considering a minivan or SUV a sportier and more attractive alternative. 

With a design that brings to mind a combination of the woody wagons and panel delivery vans that plied America’s roads in the 1950s and 60s, the Flex stands out from the crowd of visually bland crossovers and ties in with Ford’s strong styling heritage.

One of the characteristics that make the 2010 Flex even more compelling is the availability of Ford’s new EcoBoost drivetrain. More than just marketing hype, the EcoBoost engine represents a serious leap forward in terms of both power and efficiency. The initial idea from Ford behind the EcoBoost concept was to create an engine that would offer a level of power equivalent to a V8, yet at the same time, consume only as much fuel as a V6. While at first this might have seemed like an impossible task, Ford engineers realized that the answer to their problem lay in the field of turbocharging. At its core, a turbocharger allows a smaller displacement engine to produce significant power by cramming as much air into it as possible. This extra air allows for more efficient use of fuel and by extension, better horsepower at a reduced rate of gas consumption.

The 2010 Ford Flex with EcoBoost makes use of two turbochargers feeding a 3.5-liter V6. Thanks to the extra grunt afforded by the turbos, the engine is capable of producing 355 hp and 350 lb/ft of torque. When combined with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, the hefty Flex can launch itself to 60 mph in around seven seconds, which is impressive for a vehicle of this size. Fuel mileage for this powerful crossover is rated at 16 mpg in city driving and 22 mpg during highway cruising, which is head and shoulders above full-size SUV’s such as the Chevrolet Suburban and the Dodge Durango.

Buyers concerned about the potential for turbo lag to intrude on their spirited driving have no need for concern. The Flex boost kicks in at a relatively low 1,500 rpm, and the transmission features paddleshifters mounted on the steering wheel for greater control over the powerband. The Flex with EcoBoost is also capable of towing up to 4,500 pounds and is equipped with a trailer sway control system for additional peace of mind when handling a heavy load. This places it in another league entirely when compared against even the most popular minivans currently available.

The 2010 Ford Flex with EcoBoost doesn’t just come out on top in terms of power, fuel efficiency and towing. It is also a very comfortable and capable people mover. The Flex can seat up to seven passengers with access to the rear-most seats facilitated by a power folding second row that moves out of the way at the touch of a button. With both sets of rear seats out of the picture, the Flex’s interior reveals its cavernous cargo capacity with room for 83.2 cubic feet of gear in total.

The EcoBoost drivetrain can be ordered with either the SEL or Limited editions of the Flex. The SEL’s passenger compartment is well equipped with dual-zone air conditioning, leather heated seats, wood trim and an MP3-capable stereo system. Stepping up to the Flex Limited throws in such luxuries as a power liftgate, footrests for second-row passengers, perforated leather hides for first- and second-row seats and Ford’s exclusive SYNC entertainment and communications system. HID headlights and puddle lamps attached to the doors round out the list of standard features on the Limited. Optional equipment includes a refrigerated second-row center console, a full Towing Package, Ford’s multi-panel glass Vista roof and a DVD entertainment center.

The 2010 Ford Flex with EcoBoost is at the forefront of a new breed of crossover vehicles, a vehicle that offers many of the capabilities found in large SUVs, yet doesn’t penalize drivers with the handling and fuel mileage deficiencies associated with truck-based platforms. The Flex manages to combine great performance, unique styling and unmatched practicality into one very efficient and technologically advanced package. One test drive is sure to convince you.