The Ford Flex and other people and cargo movers are more about features, accommodations and equipment than the actual driving experience. That said, the Flex is remarkably composed on the road and dynamically competent, and not just for a vehicle its size, but remarkably taut for a vehicle of any size. Seamless is the word that comes to mind.

The prevailing feeling on the road is less of power and speed than overall safety and solidity. The Flex feels like a vault. NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) control is exceptional. This results from a well reinforced body structure (both visible and notable in the way the various pillars and door openings are constructed) that eliminates the usual creaks and groans. The only noise you hear while underway comes from the mirrors, but even this is only slight and at speeds over 65 mph. The Flex is one composed and quiet car.

The standard 3.5-liter V6, with double overhead-cams and 262 horsepower, has more than adequate power for normal driving conditions, along with sufficient torque to either tow a 2000?pound load in standard form or a 4500-pound load with the optional trailer towing package. The 6-speed automatic transmission does its job efficiently and well. We found it was rarely, if ever, caught in the wrong gear.

Fuel economy is an EPA-estimated 17/24 mpg City/Highway, 16/22 mpg with all-wheel drive.

The EcoBoost V6, with its 355 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque, is a wonder of power and response, and brings with its additional output only a small penalty in fuel economy, being rated at 16/21 City/Highway mpg.

Ride quality is controlled to the point of neither being noticeable nor a real factor in the driving experience. Cornering is level and quiet. Turns taken at enthusiastic speeds elicit no audible reply from the tires. Four-wheel disc brakes with every conceivable electronic interface are equally quiet and composed, and provide peace of mind.