Ford Flexes to Number One

When Ford released the Flex in the 2008, the reaction to the automakers first foray into the Crossover Utility market was polarizing. Some critics, drivers, and fans (like Nelly) were absolutely enamored by the elongated two-tone design of the automobile. Others however, dismissed it as vehicle that didn’t know what it wanted to be - a car or an SUV.

Lucky for Ford, the Detroit’s Urban Wheel Awards erred on the side of enamored and bestowed the Flex with “Urban Truck of the Year” award at its 2009 ceremony. Judged by an independent and multicultural panel, the Ford Flex bested competitors the Dodge Ram and the BMW X6 to take the coveted title.

“Ford’s Flex offers design, comfort, flexibility, good looks and technology in a distinctive package that is an utterly fresh statement,” said judge Brian Armstead of AutoSense. “Thoughtful touches like the hidden rocker panels, capless fuel filler, and the illuminating touch pad locking system set the Flex apart in a very crowded segment.”

Ford’s Group Vice President of Global Quality Bennie Fowler and Earl Lucas, Lead Interior Designer on the Ford Flex (pictured above) were on hand to accept the ‘Urban Truck of the Year’ Award on behalf of the Flex.