08-14-2009, 03:28 AM
Quote:By Richard Russell
July 27, 2009
Boulder, Colo. - EcoBoost may sound like some add-on gizmo from the back page ads of a tuner magazine, but when equipped with this new feature, the 2010 Ford Flex develops 93 more horsepower and 102 lb.-ft. more torque. Yet highway and city fuel economy is nearly identical.
The result is a 355-horsepower people hauler with the performance of a V8 and the fuel consumption of a mid-size V6 family sedan.
Lean, mean, family-hauling machine
2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost - Click to see the complete gallery (Photo: Ford)The EcoBoost-equipped Flex immediately proved its worth during a back-to-back towing exercise, where it simply annihilated a Hemi-powered Jeep Commander when lugging a 2,300-lb trailer. The blue-oval machine posted times from rest to 100 km/h and from 80-100 km/h a full one-third quicker than the Jeep.
Granted, Ford set this up to their advantage, 2,200 metres up in the Rockies, where the turbocharged Flex was unaffected by the altitude. Normally-aspirated engine lose about three per cent of their power for every 300 or so metres of altitude, but the fact remains that the Ford boasts almost 20 per cent better fuel economy than the big Hemi and similar advantages over other V8-powered vehicles popular with the towing set such as the Chevy Suburban, Ford Expedition and Toyota Sequoia.
Gallery: 2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost
The heart of the matter
2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost - Click to see the complete gallery (Photo: Ford)The EcoBoost system is comprised of several individual enhancements that result in a significant boost in power without any noticeable loss in fuel economy. Each bank of cylinders is fitted with its own small turbocharger that can spin at up to 170,000 rpm, while fuel is squirted into to each of its six cylinders via a direct-injection system, pressurized at up to 2,175 psi. That's 35 times higher than the Flex's standard V6.
By adding these features to an existing engine, development time and costs were greatly reduced. The EcoBoost in the Flex builds on the 3.5-litre aluminum Duratec V6 used throughout the Ford family, but it receives a higher compression ratio, stronger connecting rods, a more durable crankshaft and upgraded cooling systems. It is paired to a full-time all-wheel-drive system and a toughened-up version of the six-speed automatic transmission used with the normal Flex.
Other than the additional purchase price there is no reason to go with the regular engine. But that purchase price is pretty steep since the EcoBoost is only available on the Flex Limited at a cost of $46,599.
Minor improvements are a big deal
2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost - Click to see the complete gallery (Photo: Ford)Other changes to the Flex for the 2010 model year are minimal, but nevertheless worth noting. This station-wagon-on-steroids continues to stand apart from the pack - any pack - on looks alone. Additional standard equipment for 2010 includes a much-needed telescoping steering column, power-folding second-row seats and Ford's innovative MyKey, which allows parents to restrict speed and audio system volume as well as sound repeated reminders to belt-up.
Also available are some new options including Ford's new navigation system, dual headrest-mounted DVD entertainment system that allows second-row passengers to watch two different movies or play different video games, Active Park Assist and a Class III trailer towing package. The latter two are worthy of special attention.
Active Park Assist ($700) is available exclusively to the Flex Limited EcoBoost. Unlike other self-parking systems which use cameras and require complex driver interaction, Ford's uses ultra-sonic sensors. Activated at the push of a button, you simply drive forward and when the system measures a space capable of accommodating the Flex, it sounds a warning. It then tells you to place the transmission in reverse and to take your hands off the wheel. With the driver controlling speed with the brake pedal, the Flex eerily reverses into place with the steering wheel spinning madly, first in one direction and then the other as the vehicle pulls to within five centimetres of the curb.
Tow without fear
2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost - Click to see the complete gallery (Photo: Richard Russell)The Class III Trailer Tow package will be similarly impressive for those who regularly tow toys or utility trailers weighing up to 2,045 kg (4,500 lbs). It includes Trailer Sway Control which works in conjunction with an electric power steering system and electronic stability control to sense sway - the yaw motion of the trailer. It then applies precise braking to individual wheels or reduces power to bring both vehicle and trailer under control.
During an exercise, we deliberately forced the trailer to sway, then let go of the steering wheel; Trailer Sway Control kicked in, allowing one additional side-to-side motion before countering the effects. The same actions in a couple of competitive products with the same weight out back required considerable driver input and attention to bring things back under control. The EcoBoost model also comes with software-based Pull-Drift Compensation that automatically corrects steering inputs to offset cross winds and roads that are uneven or have high crowns.
With these features, the Flex has instantly vaulted to the head of the pack for those who routinely tow small trailers. The ability to laugh at steep grades and high altitudes while getting decent fuel economy, combined with some serious safety technologies makes towing with this Flex a much more pleasant, and safe experience.
A faster family room
2010 Ford Flex EcoBoost - Click to see the complete gallery (Photo: Ford)Inside, the Ford's distinctive shape allows for an incredibly roomy interior with sufficient second-row legroom to rival a limo. It even has foot rests! There is also a reasonable amount of space in the easy to access third-row, although the bottom seat cushion is pretty close to the floor. With any combination of the second or third-row split seats folded, the Flex accommodates really large and long items with ease. The quality of materials, and the fit and finish are above reproach.
For such a large and heavy (2,272 kg) vehicle, the Flex is a surprisingly pleasant drive. It doesn't have that much body roll, and is quite agile in the turns. Part of this may have to do with the EcoBoost model's unique spring and shock rates, and lowered suspension. Large 19-inch wheels and tires are standard and 20-inchers available.
Anyone who needs a combination of tow vehicle and people hauler would be wise to visit their local Ford store and check this one out.