2018 Ford Flex
Used

Review and specifications

2018 Ford Flex

The 2013 Flex update brought the addition of variable cam timing to the 3.5-liter V6. This bumps horsepower from 262 to 287. A self-parking system, capable of easily and accurately slotting the Flex into a tight parallel parking space, is offered as an option. Overall, the Flex rides well and is commendably quiet. Rear-seat room is cavernous, with a usable third-row seat and generous cargo space. But handling is clumsy and a large turning circle, along with limited rear visibility, hampers maneuverability. Antilock brakes and ESC are standard, collision warning and blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert are optional.

Market value
$12,425
Fuel
Conventional
Transmission
Automatic
Seats
7
Model year 2018
Owner rating 4/5
Reliability 4/5
Data updated June 4, 2026

At a glance

Model data

Overview

Powertrain
Conventional
Body style
4-door SUV
Drive type
AWD
Transmission
Automatic, 6-speed
Category
Large SUVs
Generation began
2013

Pricing

Current retail median
$12,425
Retail value range
$11,275 - $13,450
Original MSRP range
$30,285 - $43,295
Trade-in range
$7,960 - $10,050

Ratings

Road test score
73/100
Owner satisfaction
4/5
Would buy again
76%
Reliability
4/5

Fuel economy

EPA city
16 MPG
EPA highway
22 MPG
EPA combined
18 MPG
Tested city
12 MPG
Tested highway
25 MPG
Tested overall
18 MPG
Annual fuel cost
$2,195
Cruising range
330 miles

Road tests

0-30 mph
3.2 sec
0-60 mph
8.5 sec
60-0 mph braking
141 ft
Avoidance speed
48 mph
Test status
Test Completed

Dimensions

Length
202 in
Width
80 in
Height
68 in
Wheelbase
118 in
Weight
4,820 lb
Maximum load
1,160 lb
Towing capacity
4,500 lb

Interior

Seating
7 people
Front head room
6.5 in
Front leg room
41.5 in
Rear head room
7.5 in
Rear leg room
31.5 in
Cargo volume
47.5 cu ft
Luggage
2+0+0

Owner feedback

Comfort
5/5
Driving
5/5
Styling
5/5
Value
4/5

Environmental impact

Air pollution score
3/10
Greenhouse gas score
3/10
SmartWay
No

Brand context

About Ford

<p>Ford shifted away from cars this decade, focusing on SUVs and pickup trucks, with the Mustang as the lone exception. Fords are seldom leaders in their segments based on CR’s tests and surveys, but the small Maverick and full-sized F-150 trucks are notable standouts. Some other models score well enough to earn our recommendation, such as the Escape Hybrid and Bronco Sport. The Mustang Mach-E EV is Ford's highest-scoring current model. Overall, Ford's new car reliability is above average, but it varies, so used-car buyers should be mindful to check our ratings. </p><p><br/></p>

Vehicle ID: 12043 First published: July 22, 2020 Updated: June 4, 2026

Values may vary by trim, options, location, and market conditions.