The 2016 Ford Flex AWD with the 3.5L V6 gets 18 MPG combined. It’s not great, but families who buy this boxy crossover likely prioritize spaciousness, distinctive styling, and all-wheel drive over fuel efficiency. The Flex makes a statement, rejecting minivan monotony for personality. It’s a vehicle purchased knowing it uses more gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway for this Flex configuration. In stop-and-go traffic, the Flex’s weight and conventional six-speed automatic transmission work against it. However, the 22 MPG highway figure is achievable if you drive at reasonable speeds and avoid aggressive acceleration. The Flex is best when cruising.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,450 for the 2016 Ford Flex AWD 3.5L. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time. Your actual costs will vary depending on how much you drive and local gas prices. This shows that the Flex’s practicality has a cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standard, real-world fuel economy often differs. Flex owners report a range of MPG figures, typically between 15 and 20 MPG in mixed driving. Driving style, terrain, and vehicle maintenance all matter. Regular servicing, including tire inflation and engine tune-ups, is important for optimal gas mileage. Using the air conditioning, especially in hot weather, reduces efficiency. The roof rack, while stylish, hurts gas mileage, especially at higher speeds.

How it compares

Compared to other three-row crossovers of its era, the 2016 Ford Flex AWD 3.5L’s fuel economy is in the middle. A 2016 Toyota Highlander AWD with the 3.5L V6 offered slightly better mileage, around 20 MPG combined. A 2016 Honda Pilot AWD achieved similar numbers. However, a 2016 Chevrolet Traverse AWD, while offering comparable space, often struggled to match the Flex’s 18 MPG combined. These figures matter, but Flex buyers often value its unique looks and available features (like the multi-panel Vista Roof) more than slightly better fuel efficiency. Buyers comparing FLEX MPG across all years can see which configurations were most efficient

For those considering alternative models, it’s helpful to look at all Ford fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid quick starts and hard braking. The Ford Flex responds well to smooth and gradual acceleration. Anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a consistent speed will reduce fuel consumption. Monitor tire pressure, properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and improve gas mileage.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Excessive idling wastes fuel and creates emissions. Modern engines restart quickly, making this a simple way to save gas, especially in urban traffic.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Extra cargo adds to the vehicle’s load and decreases fuel economy. Remove items you don’t need from the trunk and cargo area. Even small items make a difference. Don’t use the Flex as permanent storage.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed can optimize fuel efficiency on long trips. Be mindful of traffic conditions and adjust your speed. Cruise control isn’t attentive driving.

Keep up with scheduled maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance will ensure the Flex’s engine runs well. Neglecting these tasks can decrease performance and increase fuel consumption. Preventative maintenance helps in the long run.