The comments have been pouring in since Ford launched the All-New 2009 Ford Flex last week at the New York Auto show. Ford designers called it a polarizing car, and according to what you’ve been posting they were right: it’s got people talking.
Erin Johnson writes: “Well the first time I saw the All New Ford Flex, I thought to myself, Man, what a vehicle that is.” “This is the kind of vehicle I have been CRAVING!” says James Scherrer.
Others are more critical in their opinions: College Student in AL calls the Flex “a cardboard box on wheels.” James Barone writes: “The exterior and interior look good but not groundbreaking.”
The design of the new Flex has sparked a lot of thought. Marc says it’s a “good looking ride.” andrewscott says that the Ford Flex “has revived my hope in American car companies to … design a truly unique and cool vehicle.” David G. Pollard thinks “It has some true American character to it!!
But, one of the hottest topics of conversations revolves around the name – the Ford Flex. Many preferred “Fairlane” (the name of the concept car from which the Flex takes its inspiration) and some find “Flex” confusing. Oakville Employee writes “Flex implies Flexible fuel system eg. E85, diesel, Hybrid etc.” Everyone has a suggestion – Falcon, Cruze, Discovery, Country Squire, Excursion (sorry folks…that one’s already taken…). Wayne says, “it could be worse… they could have called it the SCOOTER”. In reality, Ford responds that the name ‘Flex’ reflects this vehicle’s capability and style, and was the product of extensive consumer research. In the end, the excitement over the design trumps all. As Lee says, “fortunately the product is so amazing that you could have resurrected the name Edsel and it will sell.”
Love it or hate it, it’s got people talking. Billy Balog captures the sentiments best: “Given the infectious buzz so far, it is safe to say Ford is back. Both the interior and exterior intrigue me.”
If you got to see the Flex at the New York Auto Show—or even if you’ve just read about it—tell us what you think!
Loading ...
I work for a major Ford dealer and we haven't retailed a single unit. We have dealer traded a few, but none over the curb a we say.
Ford needs to fire their design team and start from scratch! Ford has compiled an increddible list of recent blunders including the 500 now labeled a Taurus, Taurus X, Thunderbird, GT40 an now the Flex. What they might want to consider is re-introducing the Pinto and Fairmont models. I can see great success with a possible Hybrid Pinto getting an impressive 45 MPG and the fairmont getting 35 MPG with the ability to comfortably seat 5. Here is where Ford should be but instead they are wasting money on the Flex and redesigning the F150....like anyone cares.
Denial is an ugly thing! Ford had better get their act together or they will be in serious trouble within the next few years. Seriously in trouble!
Renaming the Five Hundred the Taurus= FLOP
Renaming the Montego the Sable= FLOP
Renaming the Freestyle the Taurus X= FLOP
And now a new model with a really dumb name: the Flex= FLOP
What have we here, the Flop Motor Company?