Are you sick and tired of traditional minivans and SUVs? If so, Ford has quite an interesting proposal: the Flex. As far as versatile people haulers go, this one will go down in history as one of the most unique and eccentric.

With such unique lines, the Ford Flex leaves no one indifferent!

Competing against the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander and the like, not to mention GM's crossover quartet (GMC Acadia, Saturn Outlook, Buick Enclave and Chevrolet Traverse) the Flex is a whole new take on the conventional family vehicle -- a new-age Taurus X, if you prefer. But unlike the latter, the Flex makes everyone, and I mean everyone, turn their heads.

The strong, boxy shape of the vehicle is enhanced by massive wheel arches and ultra-short overhangs. Such uniquely angular lines arouse people's curiosity and admiration while giving the Flex a commanding presence on the road. The 19-inch polished aluminum wheels of the Limited model further highlight its distinctive appeal.

Should we be surprised that the Flex infatuates potential buyers? Absolutely not. But while they will appreciate the flexible and spacious seating for six or seven people, the affordably-priced all-wheel drive model and the fairly comprehensive list of features, typical Flex customers are likely to be more interested in sitting behind the wheel and hitting the streets.

"Flextremely" different!
Different? That's an understatement! The white- or silver-painted roof (the choice is yours) and black pillars give the vehicle the look of an oversized MINI Cooper Clubman. How paradoxical! More conservative buyers can still get a body-colored roof if they so choose.

The panoramic Vista Roof (optional) literally floods the interior with sunlight thanks to a power moonroof over the front row and three fixed glass openings with manual sunshades in the back.

The available cooled beverage compartment between the two second-row captain's chairs will obviously make your neighbors jealous. It can swallow up to seven 355-ml cans, four half-liter bottles or a generous provision of sushis. Perfect for long trips!

The Vista Roof floods the entire cabin with sunlight.

Another innovation is the EasyFuel cap-less fuel tank system. Simply lift the lid, which acts as a sealing cap. This system reduces toxic vapor leaks that later create smog. No longer will you wonder if you properly put the cap back in place!

The Flex features a cap-less fuel tank system.

Familiar powertrain
Under its innovative skin, however, the 2009 Ford Flex closely resembles the Taurus X. The long, angular hood hides a 3.5L Duratec V6 producing 262 horsepower -- good for 0-100 kph accelerations in about 9 seconds, not to mention convincing passing maneuvers. Fuel economy hovers around 10-11 liters per 100 kilometers (regular gasoline).

On the road, the Flex handles much like the Taurus X and also the Volvo XC90. In fact, the latter's platform underpins both Ford models. The power steering is nicely weighed and the brakes are progressive.

Despite an ultra-flat beltline and expansive greenhouse, rearward visibility is limited. To make parking maneuvers easier, the Flex comes standard with a back-up sensor, which the automaker has to be commended for. Vehicles equipped with the optional navigation system also feature a handy rearview camera. Finally, the outside mirrors are wide but not very high -- aesthetics were the priority here.

Standard 2+2+2!
The Flex is available in two trim levels, SEL and Limited, with a "2+2+2" seating arrangement as standard. A three-passenger middle-row bench is available at no extra cost in place of the two captain's chairs.

The driver has an easy time finding a decent driving position thanks to 10-way power adjustments, a tilt steering wheel and even standard heated cushions. Adjustable pedals are optional with the SEL model and standard on the Limited. My only disappointment comes from the fact that the steering wheel does not telescope too.

Despite an ultra-flat beltline and expansive greenhouse, rearward visibility is limited.

The buckets offer large though rather flat cushions. Fortunately, the seatbacks are generously bolstered, providing the support you need on winding roads.

Access to the interior is made easier by the low floor height. A significant portion of the rocker panels is integrated to the doors, meaning your pants will no longer get dirty during winter. Nice!

The flexible interior does not offer class-leading cargo capacity, but it's large enough to accommodate a couple of big items.

The extended wheelbase of the Flex allows class-leading room in the second row. A total of six adults can comfortably enjoy the Flex and, as a bonus, soundproofing is good. What I find a bit odd, however, is that Ford forgot to include inward armrests with the second-row captain's chairs.

As for the 50/50 third-row seats, they fold and disappear into the floor, like those of the Honda Odyssey or Dodge Grand Caravan. They are easy to manipulate and, best of all, they increase cargo volume fivefold.

Not the biggest trunk, but...
At 2,355 liters, the total cargo capacity of the Flex remains lower than most rivals; the Saturn Outlook, for instance, offers up to 3,313 liters. The lower body and roomier passenger compartment are the main reasons why. Of course, it's not every day that you have to carry a Louis XV buffet!

In my opinion, the arrival of the Flex tolls the death bell for the Taurus X, which Ford representatives flatly deny. These two vehicles are too similar, but with the Flex, the number 2 automaker in the U.S. finally has a versatile people hauler that's both unique and functional. I believe that Ford should put all its eggs in that basket. Consumers will probably respond the same way, sooner rather than later, as more and more Flexes will hit the road.

With the Flex, the number 2 automaker in the U.S. finally has a versatile people hauler.