The 2019 Ford Flex FWD with the 3.5L V6 engine gets 19 MPG combined. This isn’t the best fuel economy, but it reflects the Flex’s spaciousness, practicality, and distinctive retro-wagon styling. This vehicle isn’t for those wanting the best fuel economy, instead appealing to families needing space for passengers, cargo, and road trips.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates are 16 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. In cities, its weight and boxy shape lead to higher fuel consumption during stop-and-go driving. However, on the open road, the 3.5L V6 is more efficient, approaching 23 MPG. The six-speed automatic transmission is adequate but not particularly modern. The lack of extra gears means it doesn’t improve fuel economy at higher speeds. Acceleration is acceptable, but aggressive driving diminishes any hope of reaching the highway estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Ford Flex FWD is $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes a national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving, and the price of gasoline in your area. Aggressive driving and city commutes raise that number, while highway miles and conservative driving might lower it slightly. This calculation only accounts for gasoline costs and doesn’t include maintenance or insurance.

Real-world expectations

The EPA’s estimates provide a baseline, but real-world MPG often differs. Flex owners report seeing figures within a few MPG of the official numbers, but achieving the rated 23 MPG highway requires effort. Tire pressure, cargo weight, and climate control all play a role. Headwinds, hills, and frequent acceleration will decrease your MPG. Using cruise control on flat highway stretches can help you get closer to the EPA estimates.

How it compares

The Flex occupies a unique niche, making direct comparisons difficult. Minivans like the Honda Odyssey (22 MPG combined) and Toyota Sienna (21 MPG combined) offer similar space and practicality but generally achieve better fuel economy. Three-row SUVs such as the Honda Pilot (22 MPG combined for the FWD model) and Toyota Highlander (24 MPG combined for the base 4-cylinder) also offer more efficient alternatives. None of these offer the Flex’s styling or its available turbocharged EcoBoost engine (more power but worse fuel economy). For buyers who want better fuel efficiency, there are choices. For those who value the Flex’s features, the fuel economy is an alright trade-off. Check all Ford fuel economy data to get a broader picture of its fuel economy.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and cause the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended PSI on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Flex is a heavy vehicle, requiring more energy to accelerate and decelerate. Smooth acceleration and braking will help conserve fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and try to maintain a consistent speed.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Restarting the engine consumes less fuel than idling for too long.

Reduce cargo weight. The more weight the Flex carries, the harder the engine has to work, and the more fuel it consumes. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle to improve fuel efficiency. Consider removing roof racks when not in use, as they increase aerodynamic drag.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed using cruise control can improve fuel economy on long highway drives. Avoid sudden acceleration while using cruise control to maximize its effectiveness. Be mindful of hills and sometimes disengaging cruise control and managing the throttle manually can be more efficient.

Ultimately, the 2019 Ford Flex’s appeal is in its space, style, and functionality, not its fuel efficiency. Buyers understand the fuel consumption and accept it. See all Ford fuel economy data.