2019 Ford Flex Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

Ford offers three options in the midsize SUV category. The Explorer has been around forever and is a very popular option. The Edge also makes a good impression with buyers and ranks second in popularity. The Ford Flex is almost an afterthought when it comes to midsize SUVs, but it has a loyal group of fans that like the exterior design and excellent cabin size.

It will never sell as well as the Explorer, but it offers a unique take on the midsize SUV and has remained relatively unchanged over the years save a few details. Some buyers will be drawn to its upright exterior design. The distinctive look of the Flex makes it stand out compared to many other vehicles in the category. It also has a very low stance which makes getting in and out of the vehicle very easy. It also offers three trim levels to choose from and an upgraded engine option.

Buyers interested in the 2019 Ford Flex should know what trim levels and options are available to them, and this article aims to do just that.

Compare the 2019 Ford Flex SE vs SEL Trims. What is the difference?

The Ford Flex SE is the base trim level for the Flex. It is equipped with a 287 horsepower V6 engine, a six speed automatic transmission with SelectShift capabilities. The SelectShift feature allows the driver to take over the shifting duties for the Flex. The Flex SE is available in front wheel drive only.

The Flex is available in five exterior colors. The options for the SE are Agate Black, Oxford White, Magnetic, Blue and Ingot Silver. It also comes with standard 17 inch painted aluminum wheels. The SE also has standard power adjustable, heated side view mirrors with a blind spot mirror. It also has halogen projector headlamps.

The interior of the Flex features a 60/40 split bench seat in the second row and a 50/50 bench seat in the third row. The second row comes with auto fold capabilities on the short side of the second row for easy access. The SE also features a six way power adjustable driver's seat. The seating is cloth and comes in either Dune or Charcoal Black.

The SE also has an audio system with AM/FM/CD/MP3 functions and six speakers. The SE has SYNC voice recognition and entertainment controls paired with a 4.2 inch LCD screen. The system also offers Bluetooth and smart phone integration.

The SE's climate control system includes one setting for the entire vehicle. The SE also has a standard rearview camera. The MyKey feature for the Flex is also standard and allows drivers to limit maximum driving speeds and audio volume for secondary drivers. The Flex also offers remote keyless entry.

There are no add on packages for the Flex SE, but there are a few add-ons to consider. The SE also offers roof rails, inflatable second row safety belts, XM radio and an engine block heater.

The Flex SEL offers buyers many additional features and packages compared to the base SE.

The SEL offers buyers the intelligent all wheel drive system, which changes fuel economy only slightly. The SEL also offers four additional exterior color options. The SEL comes in Stone Gray or can be upgraded to a tinted clear coat paint in Burgundy Velvet, Ruby Red or White Platinum for a small charge. The standard wheels for the SEL are 19" painted aluminum. There are some additional options for the SEL available in the add on packages.

The standard interior options of the SEL are the same as the SE, but buyers can opt to remove the second row bench seat and switch to two captains chairs. The additional seating configuration offers easier access to the third row and space in the cabin.

The audio and infotainment system of the SEL is upgraded to an eight inch touchscreen with SYNC3 capabilities as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The front seats are heated and have expanded power adjustment capabilities. The SEL also does away with the standard key fob and upgrades to intelligent access and push button start. It also has remote start built in. It is also upgraded to dual zone climate control.

There are multiple add on packages for the SEL, but roof rails and the engine block heater can be added independently. The SEL also features Sirius XM free for six months.

The first package for the SEL is the Equipment Group 202A. It features a power liftgate and a BLIS blind spot information system. It also features rear cross traffic alert.

The interior is outfitted with leather seating for the first and second rows and features memory features for the driver's seat, side view mirrors and power adjustable pedals.

The SEL Appearance package also includes an upgraded seven speaker audio system and a universal home remote to allow the user to operate most garage doors.

The SEL Appearance package is also a prerequisite for adding a multipanel sunroof and a fully functional navigation system that features Sirius XM traffic and TravelLink.

The next package for the SEL is the Appearance package and it features a two tone exterior with agate black roof with coordinating roof rails. The SEL Appearance package also includes upgraded 20" high gloss aluminum wheels that are painted black for a more sleek appearance. The exterior is also upgraded with thoughtful accents like a black beltline molding.

The interior is also upgraded with Dark Earth Gray leather trimmed seating and perforated two tone accents in a lighter shade of gray. The steering wheel is also wrapped in leather. The instrument cluster is also upgraded to enhance the interior ambiance.

The SEL can also be outfitted with the Trailer Tow package to enable towing up to 4,500 lbs with a wiring harness, trailer sway control and an engine oil cooler.

Compare the 2019 Flex SEL vs Limited Trims. What is the difference?

The SEL offers great add on packages and some additional standard features compared to the SE, but the Limited trim level features maximum luxury and capability for the Flex with an optional engine upgrade and plenty of standard features. Buyers looking for access to the EcoBoost V6 will have to buy additional packages to get it. It does not come standard with the Limited trim.

The Limited includes all of the features available with the Equipment group 202A, and adds plenty of additional standard amenities.

Buyers of the Ford Flex Limited get a premium audio system from Sony that includes 12 speakers and HD radio capability. They also get the advanced navigation system and unique interior styling with wood grain inlays and ambient lighting.

The Limited also includes HID headlamps and LED tailights. Buyers also get rain sensing wipers.

The Limited can also be outfitted with the Equipment Group 301A for added luxury and technology. The driver assist features include adaptive cruise control and forward collision alert with brake assist technology.

The interior also gets come reconfiguration with a power adjusting and heated steering wheel and heated and ventilated front seats. The 301A Equipment Group also offers power fold third row seating. The seats can be folded down with a push of a button and also offer a tailgate seating adjustment which allows the seats to be tilted back to offer seating facing out the liftgate.

Buyers that want the upgraded 3.5 liter V6 engine will have to step up to the 302A Equipment Group. The Ford EcoBoost V6 offers 365 horsepower and comes paired with the intelligent AWD system. This group also includes stylish polished aluminum wheels.

The Limited also offers the same Appearance package and Towing package as the SEL. Buyers can also add the sunroof, inflatable safety belts and second row bucket seats individually.

Final Thoughts

While the SE trim level of the Ford Flex is the cheapest, that does not necessarily mean it is the best. It has limited features and no add on packages. The best trim for the Ford Flex is the SEL. The middle trim level is only a modest increase in price from the base SE (less than $3,000) and offers a much wider variety of standard and optional features. The SEL offers the intelligent AWD system for a small increase in price and also offers three additional add on packages that will accommodate most buyers' needs.

The EcoBoost engine comes at a very steep price and simply won't be an option for most buyers. The Limited trim level is much more expensive than the SEL, and the EcoBoost engine comes with a $8,200 price tag at the minimum. The extra features of the Flex Limited are very nice, but buyers pay dearly for the added luxury.

The entry level SE offers a low starting price for budget minded buyers, but the lack of available AWD and upgrade packages limit its appeal. Most people will find that the SEL offers a variety of options and will find a configuration that fits their needs.