From its introduction, Ford has billed the 2009 Flex as a hip, urban lifestyle vehicle. The quirky, boxy shape is, for better or worse, an attention getter and Ford has planned to embrace the aftermarket since day one. With the SEMA show coming up next week, Ford has taken the wraps off of 11 customized Flexes that will at the show as part of a larger group that includes more than a dozen different takes on the seven-passenger crossover.
"When people see this car, they're absolutely surprised that it's a Ford," said Kate Pearce, Flex marketing manager. "The fact that we're able to put new designs out in the marketplace that are different from anything we've ever created before is exciting for us and for our customers. Before the vehicle was even launched, customization shops were playing with the images online to show what they could do with the car. That was confirmation of what we already knew, which was that this vehicle would have mass appeal in the customization world."
Join us as we take a brief look at some of the various interpretations of the Flex that top custom houses have come up with.
Ford Flex "Euro Series" by 3dCarbon (Pictured Above)
Taking inspiration from sleek European touring models, 3dCarbon has created a 10-piece body kit for the Flex that leaves no side untouched. The "Euro Series" Flex rides on massive 24-in. wheels wrapped in super-low-profile tires and has been finished with custom paint from House of Kolor and unique graphics. Inside, passengers are treated to a custom Katzkin leather interior and a Sony audio system.
Ford Flex by Catalyst Industrial Marking
Applying their Raceskinz Premium Composite Graphics and Accessories line to the Flex, Catalyst Industrial Marking has lived up to its name with a clean, utilitarian look. Their Flex features Timeless Brushed Metal trim on the roof, mirrors and rear door fascia, as well as inside on the dash and other parts of the interior. Passengers are kept entertained by LIIV (pronounced "live"), a wireless internet entertainment system that gives passengers full wireless internet access.
Ford Flex by Kal Concepts/Air Syndicate, Inc.
If you're a fan of hip-hop and DJ battles, this is the Flex for you. In the back, two turn-tables and a mixer have been set up by renowned DJ Alex G of "Violator All Star DJs" and hooked up to the vehicles powerful Sony Xplode audio system. Outside, the Flex rolls on 22-in. Dub spinners and has been finished with a graffiti mural along the sides.
Ford Flex by Mobsteel
Mobsteel brought its dark, mean, black-on-black style to the Ford Flex for this year's SEMA show. The all-black Flex rides on huge 24-in. blacked-out Mobsteel forged two-piece wheels wrapped with super-low-profile Pirelli P-Zero Nero tires. The Flex is slammed to the ground thanks to Air Runner front struts, a Mobsteel adjustable rear set-up and a Low Rider Air Management system. A Magnaflow exhaust system gives it an appropriate growl to compliment its menacing looks.
Ford Flex by Galpin Auto Sports
Galpin chose to keep things simple and subtle with their Flex. It's finished in a Butterscotch Orange paint job with a White Pearl roof complimenting a slightly revised front fascia. Inside, the theme carries over with white Katzkin leather seats with butterscotch accents. Entertainment comes from a powerful stereo system using JL Audio components and a custom-built subwoofer enclosure.
Automobile Magazine Art Car Ford Flex by Lee Quinones
Known for his work in the New York City subway art movement in the 1970s, Lee Quinones brings his unique perspective to the sides of the Ford Flex. His "Only in New York" mural depicts his take on modern day New York as well as folkloric aspects of Big Apple culture.
Ford Flex "Reflex" by CGS Motorsports
The Reflex sports a mild custom body kit covered in two-tone paint for a just-off-stock look. It rides on 22-in. custom one-off billet wheels and features a re-wrapped custom leather interior. Under the hood, a cold air intake and a modified exhaust give the Reflex some extra grunt, as well as some extra attitude.
Ford Flex by Rick Bottom Designs
Rick Bottom Designs decided to go high-class with their Flex, creating an elegant 11-piece body kit meant to evoke images of world-class luxury cars while the Tu-tone pearl paint sets off the flashy 22-in. wheels.
Ford Flex by Hot Rod Magazine
It wouldn't be a Hot Rod Magazine car if it didn't have a retro-hot rod look. This Flex features a red "suede" paint job topped off with a metallic-flake roof. Classic Hot Rod logos on the doors and Moon disc wheels leave no doubt where this Flex came from.
Ford Flex by Heavy Hitters Magazine
Ride in comfort in state-of-the-art massage chairs while a custom body kit draws looks from everyone you glide past. The Heavy Hitters Flex is all about laid-back cruising.
Ford Flex by Motor Trend
Taking cues from the ultimate luxury vehicle, the private jet, Motor Trend has created the ultimate vehicle for high-style traveling. Underneath the black-on-black paint and brushed metal trim, you'll ride in style as you're chauffeured to all the hottest parties. Up front, a functional pilot's cockpit serves your driver well while you and your date relax in the private rear cabin. There, you'll be treated to the finest leather, a bar, an information and entertainment system and a humidor. If you can't enjoy your night in this Flex, you can't enjoy it anywhere.