The AI summary function that’s become commonplace on pretty much every search engine started as a handy feature that makes research easy, presenting information in a quick, easy-to-read list. The problem is, those AI summaries aren’t exactly good at fact-checking, and are often fooled by other AI generated content, which it presents as unwavering fact. We’re happy to see that sometimes AI gets it right, as is the case when one searches for the supposed 2026 Ford Flex.
Right away, Google’s AI overview leads with “The Ford Flex is currently not in production… There are no official plans or announcements from Ford regarding a 2026 model.” That, right there, builds credibility. The summary also states that “there’s been some online buzz and fan interest in a potential revival,” and it even points out that online content creators and virtual automotive artists have drawn up concept art that stays true to the Flex’s boxy design.
There’s a section dedicated to “speculative features,” including the addition of a hybrid powertrain or fully electric variant. However, the AI summary concludes by saying that while there is discussion online about a 2026 Ford Flex, there are no official plans from Ford, and the model is permanently dead. It even reminds users that Ford is focusing on other SUV and truck segments.
While its information the 2026 Ford Flex is legit, AI has failed to recognize some other generative dupes floating around the internet. It presented the 2026 Ford Fusion as undeniable fact, despite the fact that there’s not even an official concept floating around. AI even fell for Ford Authority‘s very own rendering of the 2026 Ford Escape Raptor, drawing from our completely made-up story about the nonexistent model and spitting it out as truth.
Humans, meanwhile, are also easily fooled by AI, especially if they aren’t tech savvy enough to differentiate between a made-up model and a real one – like this completely fake Ford F-100.
Comments
It’s too bad the Flex is dead; my cousin loved hers. I don’t know if building one with “coach doors,” as the AI photo indicates, is a good idea, however.
Actually that’s a real photo. The Flex started life as the Ford Fairlane concept back in 2005.
It is too bad, because it was a great car/wagon. It drove and handled better than any SUV.
Had great style, but just like the Ford Edge, two great vehicles have been put to sleep. Everyone that ever owned either one of them loved them. But, that’s what Ford does. Just like the Mini-Van gone but not forgotten.
Ford needs to wake up and listen to there Ford owners! We do want a Flex upgraded new vehicle!!!! Not many of use want to drive a SUV ,as they are hard to get in and out of as we age! When the Flex first came out it was not very well advertised ! I have owned 2 Flex’s and still drive a 2019 Flex Limited.