Ford says its "Like modern architecture on wheels." Stylish, spacious, and fun are among the words I will use to describe the new 2009 Ford Flex, the vehicle that will transport Ford into a new era of producing cutting-edge vehicles that consumers have been waiting for.

The shape and bold styling may, at first glance, make you think of an SUV. Flex, however, is a crossover vehicle which means you truly have the best of both worlds - the spaciousness and functionality of an SUV with the comfort and agile handling of a car. 

Along with a number of other automotive journalists, I am taking part in an event Ford is calling an "L.A. Urban Adventure". This is an opportuntiy to experience Flex on city streets in and around Los Angeles. If you like attention, this may be the vehicle for you. As we make our way from Beverly Hills through Culver City and into West Hollywood, we are getting more than a few stares from people along our route, as well as from other drivers trying to catch a glimpse of the newest Ford to hit the streets.

I'm not really surprised by the looks we are getting. The exterior has a striking appearance, with deep grooves running the length of the bodysides, a shiny chrome grill and big aluminum wheels. Unfortunately, they can't see what is on the inside. 

The interior of Flex is spacious and comfortable. There are three rows of seats with seating for seven, giving Flex a limo-like feel. The touch of a button on the second row seats causes the seats to fold and move forward, providing easy access to third row seating. The seats in the back row are raised slightly to provide an unobstructed view to the front. 

Chrome accents on the console and a leather-wrapped shifter add to the vehicle's attractive interior. The optional Multi-Panel Vista Roof in our test vehicle is a nice touch and, in my opinion, is a must-have item on this vehicle. It consists of a sliding moonroof over the front seats and overhead windows over rows two and three.

Flex has an impressive list of standard features, including anti-lock brakes, a perimeter alarm, privacy glass and - believe it or not - a capless fuel filler system. Optional equipment includes all-wheel drive, chrome roof-rack side rails and even a rear-console refrigerator to keep your beverages cool.

Another impressive option on Flex, both from a convenience and safety standpoint, is a voice-activated communications and entertainment system. Pair your Bluetooth-enabled phone and plug in your iPod and you can place calls, receive calls, and change music using buttons on the steering wheel and voice commands.

As I make my way down Robertson Boulevard, I can't help but notice that Flex appears to have plenty of power.  Acceleration is almost effortless thanks to a 262-horsepower 3.5 liter V6 engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle handles confidently and the ride is smoothed by fully independent rear suspension.

As the sun begins to set, our attention-getting convoy of Ford Flex vehicles makes a brief stop at a local L.A. art gallery. Unclear as to the reason for our visit, we step inside to discover an exhibition of Flex Roof Art. Three talented local artists are in the process of painting Flex roof panels with colorful pictures and designs that capture the excitement and personality of Flex.

With gas prices hitting record highs, car buyers are searching for vehicles that offer reasonable mileage without forcing them to downsize to a vehicle that is too small to meet their needs. With ample interior space, a long list of comfort and convenience features, and highway mileage estimates of 24 for the front wheel drive models and 22 for all-wheel drive, Flex is clearly the right vehicle at the right time. 

Ford Flex Vehicle Specifications, click here.

For additional information on Ford Vehicles: http://www.fordvehicles.com