Sometimes when an automaker takes two automotive concepts and combines them, the result is an impressive success, creating a vehicle that others imitate, spawning a whole new segment in the industry. Other times, it's a failure, with low sales and a short life. The latter is what appears to be happening to the Ford Flex.
The styling might be a concern for some buyers and while we'll admit the Flex is a significant departure from the rest of the vehicles on the road, we actually love its stand-out retro rod character that opts for muscle rather than the cute and cuddly old school look of cars like the PT Cruiser or Chevy HHR. And we're sure we're not alone on this one, meaning there has to be a bigger reason.
That reason is the inherent nature of the vehicle. Sitting half way between a conventional crossover and a minivan, it helps fill a void left by the Freestar and attract some move traditional SUV buyers – but it doesn't do a great job at either.
It's not quite as functional as a minivan, nor is it as capable as a traditional SUV. Besides, there's already the five-seater Edge and Ford is preparing to launch the all-new 2012 Explorer – which is also moving away from its truck-based chassis of old and onto a new car-based platform – shrinking the Flex's space in the Ford lineup even further.
More:
2010 Ford Flex Limited EcoBoost Review on AutoGuide.com
My Fusion
Linear Mode
