> 2013 Flex Features: Smart

Ford offers advanced technology in the available BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert to help make driving more convenient. BLIS uses radar in the rear quarter panels to identify a vehicle entering your blind spot and alerts you with an indicator light in the sideview mirror. Cross-traffic alert also uses radar to watch for traffic behind you when you're slowly backing out of a parking spot or your driveway. If it detects a vehicle approaching from up to 15 yards away, it sends an audible warning, an indicator light flashes in the sideview mirror, and a message displays in the message center. BLIS® with cross-traffic alert is available on the Flex SEL model and is standard on the Flex Limited.

Available in all Flex models, the industry-exclusive inflatable 2nd-row safety belts help distribute crash force energy across more of the torso area than a traditional belt, which helps reduce the risk of injury while providing support to the head and neck. In the event of a frontal or side crash, the inflatable safety belts hold the passenger in the appropriate seating position, helping to reduce risk of injury. These safety belts are compatible with child safety seats. In consumer tests, most respondents said the inflatable rear safety belts felt similar or softer and more comfortable than conventional safety belts. This can help encourage safety belt usage.

Adaptive Cruise Control functions just like normal cruise control, but with one exception: When its sensors detect traffic slowing ahead, your vehicle also slows down. And when traffic has cleared, your vehicle resumes the set speed. Collision Warning with Brake Support can alert you if it senses a potential collision with the car in front of you. A “heads-up" display, which simulates brake lights, flashes on the windshield. If you don't react in time, the brakes will precharge and increase brake-assist sensitivity to provide full responsiveness when you brake. Available on the Flex Limited.

Driving in bad weather can be downright unnerving. But don't worry. Flex offers Intelligent All-Wheel Drive. The beauty of AWD is that it doesn't just react to wheel slippage when it occurs, but anticipates it. AWD continuously monitors vehicle and driver inputs, predicts traction, and automatically delivers the precise amount of engine torque needed to all the wheels — even before slippage occurs. AWD is an option with the 3.5L Ti-VCT V6 engine. It’s included on models powered by the available 3.5L EcoBoost® V6.