The popularity of the Ford Flex and its corporate twin, the Lincoln MKT, has shown that the minivan, invented by Chrysler in 1984, has decreased in popularity. The Ford Edge is also a very stylish crossover, but it can only offer seating for five. Minivans on the market can offer up to eight. Understanding the minivan fad maybe slowing down, Ford discontinued its Freestar in 2007 the Flex was released the following year.

Based off the Ford Fairlane concept shown at the 2005 North American International Auto Show, the final production design did not deviate far from the concept. As such, it was a risk for Ford to introduce a radical and boxy design. Sales figures have proven that while it looks different from other vehicles, the Flex formula is a winner.