2009 Ford Flex Preview Update

One of the most important cars from Ford this year was launched at the NewYork International Auto Show, just a couple of weeks ago. The Flex is a case of killing multiple birds with one stone – it's the successor to their minivan, and an entry into the popular large crossover segment. Equally as important, this is a vehicle that seeks to change the way that you and I think about Ford by being thoroughly thought out, pleasantly executed and different enough to generate strong opinions, all of which took place on the show floor. Unfortunately, like most very important car launches at big auto shows, I wasn't able to see the Flex up close and in person at its debut, but Ford was kind enough to bring it up to its headquarters for a closer look.

The basic rap sheet for the Flex is that it's a luxury large crossover vehicle (GMC Acadia/Hyundai Veracruz-sized) that is based off the architecture that underpins

With three rows, there's still a lot of cargo space... oh, and that third row is suitable for regular sized people. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

the Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX. It receives the same Duratec 35 engine and six-speed automatic transmission that powers the ovoid two-row crossovers, and will be available with all-wheel drive. The Flex will beassembled at Crossover Central, otherwise known as Oakville, Ontario, alongside the Edge and MKX. With that out of the way, let's have a closer look at this interesting new Ford.

In person, the Flex is just as low and long as it looks in photos. There are hints of all different types of vehicles intertwined in the Flex; the narrow, three-bar grille

Touchscreen navigation system is slick and very easy to use. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

and blacked-out pillars are reminiscent of the Range Rover Sport, while the two-box configuration (with heavy emphasis on box) is similar to a Scion xB. To cap it off, the white roof on this prototype, combined with its squat profile, has a link to the Mini that's borderline uncanny. And speaking of that roof, you'll be able to get the one on your Flex in one of three different colors; white, silver, or body color. The silver tailgate appliqué is abit ... well, different, but like the rest of the vehicle, it's out to spark debate and create conversation. There will also be an available roof rack system, which, while hard to picture on this prototype, should play excellently to the functionality of the vehicle. The Ford reps chuckled

Interior design is not at all boring; it's also very well built, even in this hand-built prototype stage. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

at the thought of whitewall tires, chrome wheel caps and faux wood exterior trim with a surfboard on the top, but you'd better believe that a customizer somewhere has blueprints ready. The name is also perfect for Mr. Funkmaster himself ... Ford absolutely must capitalize on this partnership. For me, the most impressive aspect of the Flex is the detailing of the head and tail lamp bezels. Their complexity is at a level I would have never expected to see from a regular Ford production car.

Where the exterior may evoke memories of long-distance travel in thefamily station wagon, the interior is as much a delight for kids as it is for techno-savvy buyers. Immediately, all eyes will fall on the swooping center console that borrows much from Volvo's S40/V50, especially the slick multimedia navigation system. If the interface and menus

The detail of this HID headlamp is fantastic and very un-Ford-like. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

are as stylish as they are on this demonstrator, I can easily see Ford's system becoming a favorite for auto critics and owners alike. The single screen integrates various systems including the stereo, the reverse camera, a built-in hard drive that rips and stores CDs for a 23,000 song jukebox, and the Sync Bluetooth system, developed with Microsoft. And on the topic of collaborations, Ford must've consulted Volvo on the design of the Flex's seats, because they're snug, supportive and instantly comfortable.

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