Motor Trend FlexTough vs. FlexTough Plus: Which Floor Mat Fits Your Ride?

Price — FlexTough Plus wins

The Plus is $5.28 cheaper than the original. At $29.90 vs $35.18, the savings amount to about 15%. For budget buyers, this difference can cover the cost of a pair of scissors for trimming.

In daily use, the price gap means little if you only need basic protection. Both offer similar deep-dish channels and rubber durability. The extra $5 buys you the original's massive review community, not better materials.

Budget-conscious shoppers should prioritize the Plus. You get more mat for less money, with the same 1-year warranty.

Review Count — FlexTough original wins

The original FlexTough has 125,031 reviews — over 3 times the Plus's 37,562. This is the most reviewed floor mat in its category, signaling widespread trust.

A high review count means less risk of hidden flaws. With 125k opinions, you can be confident the mat performs as advertised. The Plus, while still well-reviewed, has a smaller sample.

Risk-averse buyers should lean toward the original. More reviewers = more data points to confirm quality.

Dimensions — FlexTough Plus wins

The Plus measures 29.5" x 21.75", the original 27" x 20". That's 2.5 inches more length and 1.75 inches more width — significant for larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs.

In practical terms, the Plus offers 32% more floor area. It covers the dead pedal area better and extends further under the seat. If you drive a full-size pickup, the Plus is the obvious choice.

Owners of compact cars may find the original sufficient. The smaller footprint fits tighter footwells without bunching.

Material — Tie

Both mats use a similar rubber compound. The original's proprietary blend emphasizes cracking and deformation resistance. The Plus uses "advanced performance rubber polymers" tested for extreme conditions.

Neither material shows clear superiority. Both are flexible, durable, and easy to clean with soap and water. The Plus is lighter (5 lbs vs 11 lbs), which may indicate a slightly thinner gauge — but thickness is identical at 1 inch.

Buy based on other factors. Material quality is essentially a wash.

Anti-Slip Backing — Tie (both lacking)

Neither mat has anti-slip nibs on the bottom. The original relies on rubber grip against carpet; the Plus claims "no-slip grip" with ribbed top but no bottom nibs. Reviews for both mention sliding on smooth carpet.

In real-world use, both mats may shift under heavy foot traffic. This is a common complaint for universal-fit rubber mats. Solution: use double-sided carpet tape or buy a custom-fit mat with nibs.

If anti-slip is critical, consider aftermarket options or the Husky Liners Weatherbeater. But at this price point, lack of nibs is expected.

Trim to Fit — Tie

Both mats are designed to be trimmed with scissors. The original includes a guide; the Plus says "trim to fit your vehicle's floor contours."

Trimming is straightforward. Mark the areas that overhang, cut slowly, and test-fit. Both mats allow for a semi-custom fit without the cost of vehicle-specific liners.

This feature makes both viable for a wide range of vehicles. Whether you drive a sedan, SUV, or truck, you can tailor the shape.

Odor Rating — FlexTough Plus wins

The Plus is marketed as "100% odorless." The original has a typical rubber smell that dissipates over a few days. For those sensitive to chemical odors, the Plus is the better choice.

In hot weather, the original's smell can be noticeable initially. Many users recommend airing it out before installation. The Plus avoids this entirely.

If you're installing mats in a new car and want a fresh-smelling cabin, go with the Plus.

Weight — FlexTough Plus wins

The Plus weighs 5 lbs compared to the original's 11 lbs. This makes it easier to remove, clean, and reinstall — especially for frequent cleaning in muddy climates.

Lighter weight doesn't mean less durability. The Plus uses a different rubber formulation that's still tough but less dense. Both have a 1-inch thickness.

Easy to clean: the Plus is more manageable. You can simply spray it off and shake it dry.

Warranty — Tie

Both offer a 1-year limited warranty from the manufacturer. The warranty covers defects but excludes misuse or improper installation.

A 1-year warranty is standard for universal floor mats. It provides basic protection but won't cover wear and tear. For long-term peace of mind, consider custom-fit liners with lifetime warranties.

At this price, the warranty is acceptable. If a mat fails within a year, you're covered.