Not your grandma’s station wagon

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Under the Hood

Regardless of which version of the Flex you choose, power will come from the same 3.5-liter V-6 engine. With 262 peak horsepower unleashed at 6,250 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. of torque reaching its peak at 4,800 rpm, this six-banger isn’t the most robust in the class, but it does run on regular 87-octane gasoline and offers a respectable EPA-rated 24 mpg on the highway when paired with a front-wheel-drive Flex; opt for all-wheel drive and the extra weight will drop highway mileage to 22 mpg.

A standard six-speed automatic transmission delivers power to the alloy wheels, which measure 18 inches on the SE and SEL and roll on 235/60R18 tires; the Flex Limited is fitted with 19s or optional 20s wrapped in 235/55R19 and 255/45R20 rubber, respectively. Under the skin is a suspension system comprised of MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link setup out back, as well four-wheel antilock disc brakes. Put it all together, and you’ve got a rig that weighs and tows about the same amount – 4,500 pounds.