With its distinctive design and host of class-leading technologies, the all-new 2009 Ford Flex has been earning acclaim from consumers and critics alike.

The Flex is successfully attracting new customers to Ford, half of which are completely new to the Ford brand. And in its short time in the marketplace, the vehicle has received an array of awards – from being named "Ultimate Road Trip Car" by Maxim Magazine to being voted "Overall CUV of the Year" by the Texas Auto Writers Association.

Last week, Flex was named a finalist for the 2008 North American Car of the Year. The winner of the prestigious award will be announced Jan. 11, 2009, at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Since the Flex first arrived on the automotive scene, is has been turning heads with its unique box-like design with signature side grooves, all-black greenhouse and distinctive multi-panel Vista Roof™.

Inside, Flex provides surprising space and comfort for up to seven, with wide, roomy seats and best-in-class head room and leg room in all three rows. It also offers a variety of innovative, class-leading technologies, including Ford SYNC™, voice-activated navigation, a Sony premium audio system, Easy Fuel™ capless fuel filler, ambient lighting, a reverse camera system and SIRIUS® Travel Link™.

And Flex comes standard with six airbags, a Safety Canopy System® and Advance Trac® with RSC® (Roll Stability Control™).

Ford Flex (2009)
Ford Flex (2009) - picture 1 of 6
Ford Flex (2009) - picture 2 of 6
Ford Flex (2009) - picture 3 of 6
Ford Flex (2009) - picture 4 of 6
Ford Flex (2009) - picture 5 of 6
Ford Flex (2009) - picture 6 of 6

The 2009 Ford Flex stands out with an impressive list of honors. They include:

* Automobile Magazine - All Star Award * Texas Auto Writers - Overall CUV of the Year * Texas Auto Writers - Full Size CUV of the Year * Canadian Auto Writers - CUV of the Year * Society of Plastic Engineers - Team of the Year * Popular Mechanics - Automotive Excellence Awards * Autobytel - Best Family Car * Autotropolis - 2009 Truck of the Year * Autobytel - Utility Vehicle of the Year * GQ Magazine - Best Stuff of the Year Awards * SEMA Design Award from the Auto Writers - Most Accessory Friendly SUV * Maxim Magazine - Hottest Cars of the Summer * Kelley Blue Book - 10 Best Road Trip vehicle * Maxim Magazine - Favorite new Color - Cinnamon * Car and Driver - SEMA Show Surprisingly Good Canvas Award * Maxim Magazine - Ultimate Road Trip Car * Active Network - Active Lifestyle Vehicle of the Year * Gay Men Magazine - Top Retro Flagship