The Ford Flex was unveiled at the 2007 New York International Auto Show to encouraging reviews. The concept minivan is scheduled to be driven onto the sales lot in summer 2008. First publicized at auto shows as the Ford Fairlane concept in 2005, the Flex is the newest in minivan design featuring a more stylish and boxy exterior and countless modern conveniences inside. The debut of this modish minivan is Ford's answer to those who are seeking a family-friendly vehicle but nonetheless want to drive an automobile with a contemporary flair.
Created with the idea that a 7-passenger crossover vehicle can still be chic, Ford introduced the Flex to the public on April 4th of 2007 in New York. Ever since its debut, comparisons have been made to manufacturer Mini's models, especially the Clubman. While the Clubman is a much smaller vehicle than the Ford Flex, the two share an eerily similar exterior design. Though the Flex is a minivan-station wagon combo at heart, its maker is referring to it as the newest in crossover design. Apparently, CUVs are outselling their predecessor, the SUV, and Ford has jumped on the bandwagon by creating not one, but three CUVs in their 2009 lineup, the Ford Flex, Taurus X, and the Edge. While most makers would shy away from creating competition for themselves, Ford is going full-speed ahead with the notion that the consumer can never have too many options. Ford's intention is to set the bar in crossover models, just as they claim they have done with SUVs in the past.
The unveiling at the auto show was heralded by J. Mays, Ford's Chief Creative Officer and Vice President of Design. Unfortunately for the audience, according to reports, Mr. Mays stood directly in front of the crossover during the remainder of the show. People's initial reactions seemed mixed. Some said that the 2009 Ford was simply a rehash of the much older station wagon genre. Others, attracted to its Mini Clubman-like appearance, praised Ford for being so avant-garde in its design concept. The crossover appears squat, lengthy, and while it has a modern panache, one cannot help but notice its retro appeal. It's a complete one-eighty from the Ford Freestar minivan, the vehicle that the Flex takes over for in the 2009 lineup.
Ford has outfitted the Flex with a 260 horsepower, a 3.5L Duratec V6 engine, and a six-speed automatic transmission, not exactly the average power associated with a 7-passenger vehicle. However, Ford is positive that the Flex's 24 MPG will shoot its sales straight to the top of the heap in 2008's summer season. Ford has also taken Chrysler's lead and installed an interior refrigerator to keep cold beverages on hand during prolonged trips. Ford has done with the Flex what Chrysler initially did with the PT Cruiser, retro-styling plus all the modern amenities.
Though the Ford Flex is set to have some steep competition when it hits the sales floor - some from its own manufacturer - Ford execs are convinced that its bold styling, array of safety features, and interior comfort will not only beat its competitors, but will absolutely blow them out of the water. Ford's mantra for the Flex is "it's about the journey, not just about the destination." The makers also boast that the Flex is for those who desire both style and substance. It is certainly apparent that the upcoming release of the Flex will have other makers clamoring in their leather executive chairs to create an even more ultramodern crossover.
