19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it adequately fuels the 2016 Ford Flex FWD 3.5L for what it is: a uniquely styled, genuinely spacious family hauler that prioritizes comfort and cargo capacity over outright frugality. This isn’t a vehicle bought by penny-pinchers, it’s for families who value the Flex’s distinctive boxy shape, its unexpectedly roomy interior, and its available upscale features. Fuel efficiency is a consideration, of course, but it’s weighed against the vehicle’s other considerable attributes.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates offer a breakdown of the Flex’s fuel consumption based on driving environment. Around town, expect to see figures closer to 16 MPG. This reflects the stop-and-go nature of city driving, the frequent idling, and the increased demand on the engine for acceleration from a standstill. On the open highway, the Flex fares better, achieving a more respectable 23 MPG. This is where the engine settles into a more efficient cruising speed, minimizing fuel consumption. The six-speed automatic transmission plays a role here, helping to keep the engine in its optimal power band. However, even on the highway, a fully loaded Flex will see its MPG dip closer to the city figure.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ford Flex FWD 3.5L is $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Your actual fuel costs may vary significantly depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live. Areas with higher fuel prices will naturally result in a higher annual expenditure, while more conservative driving can help to lower it. The $2,300 figure provides a useful benchmark, and it’s important to understand how your own individual circumstances will impact your real-world gas costs.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a guideline, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners of the 2016 Ford Flex FWD 3.5L frequently report figures that fluctuate depending on driving conditions and load. If you regularly carry multiple passengers and cargo, expect to see numbers closer to the city estimate, even on the highway. Aggressive driving habits, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, will also negatively impact fuel economy. Conversely, using cruise control on long highway trips and adopting a smoother driving style can bring you closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimates. The Flex’s considerable weight and boxy shape inherently reduce fuel efficiency compared to more aerodynamic vehicles, so managing expectations is key.

How it compares

Compared to other vehicles in its class, the 2016 Ford Flex’s fuel economy falls somewhere in the middle. A similarly configured Toyota Highlander with a V6 engine achieves around 21 MPG combined. The Honda Pilot, another popular three-row SUV, manages about 22 MPG combined in FWD trim. The Chevrolet Traverse, while offering comparable space, lands near the Flex at around 19 MPG in its base configuration. What the Flex gives up in outright fuel efficiency, it arguably makes up for in its unique styling and generous interior space. For buyers drawn to the Flex’s distinctive aesthetic and utilitarian design, the slightly lower MPG is often an acceptable compromise. You can compare FLEX MPG across all years for a deeper comparison across model years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The simplest way to improve fuel economy in your 2016 Ford Flex is to drive smoothly. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking, and try to maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. The Flex is not a sports car; driving it like one will only empty your wallet faster than necessary. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a safe following distance to minimize unnecessary braking.

Proper maintenance is also critical. Keep your tires properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Ensure that your engine is regularly serviced, including oil changes and air filter replacements. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and consumes less gas.

Minimize the use of accessories that place extra load on the engine. Air conditioning, in particular, can significantly reduce fuel economy, especially in city driving. Use it sparingly, and when possible, opt for the ventilation system alone. Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle, as this also increases fuel consumption.

Plan your trips efficiently. Combine errands into a single trip to avoid multiple cold starts, which consume more gas. Use navigation apps to find the most direct route and avoid traffic congestion. Simple planning can make a noticeable difference in your overall fuel consumption. You can also review all Ford fuel economy data for other money-saving options.