2009 Ford Flex Review

Specifications

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 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 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 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 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.

Many of the quality and innovation changes that Ford pledged to make on future carscan be found on the Flex. It’ll have a capless fuel filler system like the Ford GT, eliminating the screw cap on the fuel tank, and a panoramic roof that provides light for all three rows of passengers. The Flex also has a proper refrigerator mounted in the second row between the seats that can chill drinks faster than the fridge in your kitchen. While the feature content of this crossover is just about unbeatable, the best part about Ford’s new direction is how serious the brand is on improving the ambiance of the interior. Soft mood lighting is great to have in any car, but the ability to change colors is even cooler. Likewise, the ice blue backlighting of the instruments is better than the harsh, eerie green and red of past. Though the Flex we explored wasn’t a fully finished production car, it gave a resoundingly positive impression for the materials used, the tight tolerances and improved fit and finish. If you like what you see with the Edge and Fusion, I have that deep down tingly feeling that the Flex will impress you even more.

I am glad to report that even as a crossover, the Flex does not haveany issues carrying more than five passengers; the third row is usable by people six feet in height. Access to that third row isn’t bad either, thanks to a power tilt and tumble second row, but because of the Flex’s low-ish profile, crouching is necessary. Otherwise, the rearmost row is far from the child-only seating areas of an XC90, a Q7 or an X5; even with the second row bench at its most rearward position, there’s a good amount of knee room and under-seat foot room. What’s more is that when equipped, all three rows of seats are trimmed in that oatmeal-stitched, diamond pattern leather, proof that Ford is improving its image. It’s no longer willing to cheap out in areas that it assumes people won’t notice.

With all three rows upright, the Flex has a decent amount of cargo capacity, though not as commodious as a minivan. Start folding more seats flat, and the cargo volume increases exponentially. Customers who aren’t as tall will praise the Flex for its low roof height, and optional power-closing liftgate.

For Ford, its experience with the minivan can probably be likened to the vitality of a doornail, but nevertheless the spirit in comfort and practicality lingers on heavily in the Flex. I don’t know if the Flex is going to redefine what a people-mover should be in the same way that the Dodge Caravan did in the minivan sector, but it will definitely get more people thinking about different ways to move a family around while avoiding a conventional SUV or minivan. Too bad we’ve got to wait until summer of 2008 before getting a chance to slip behind the wheel.