Steering and handling dynamics are more in-line with a large car than a full-size minivan or SUV however this isn't a vehicle that one buys to out-corner the BMW X5. Brake performance is reassuring and easy to modulate.

With its emphasis on safety, Ford has wisely outfitted the Flex with AdvanceTrac Stability Control and Roll Stability Control as standard equipment; also included as standard fare is their Safety Canopy side curtain airbag system.

I am impressed with Ford's avant-garde family wagon- and I'm not alone.

Although safety is nicely covered-off, is there room elsewhere for improvement in the Flex? Yes. As good as the Duratec is, my magic wand would boost its output and further refine its performance. I'd also reduce the vehicle's sticker shock. My fully-loaded Flex topped-out at $49,679, and that'll open a lot of competing doors in the upscale market.

Outside of these quibbles, which apply equally to many other SUVs and crossovers, I am impressed with Ford's avant-garde family wagon- and I'm not alone.

AJAC Winner
The Flex recently won the '2009 Canadian Car of the Year' in the SUV/CUV $35k-$60k category, as determined by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada.


Photo Credit : Rob Rothwell, Ford