2005 Ford Fairlane Concept

The 2005 Ford Fairlane Concept was a bold attempt by Ford to reimagine the minivan as something more stylish and eye-catching. Designed with a boxy, upright shape and strong lines, the Fairlane didn’t look like a typical family van—it had the presence of a crossover with the practicality of a people mover. Ford described it as a modern take on the idea of a family vehicle, meant to be both useful and visually striking.

The Fairlane was built on a version of the Ford Fusion’s platform and featured a 3.0-liter V6 engine, six-speed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive. It was large enough to fit three rows of seats and had a low floor and wide-opening doors for easy access. One of its standout features was a unique rear tailgate that could open in three different ways, making it easier to load and unload cargo.

The interior was clean and bright, with unusual materials and a focus on creating a calm, open space—something Ford suggested could represent the future of practicality. There were thoughtful details, like fold-flat seating and a roof console designed to hold various accessories. It also had a tall roof and large windows to give a sense of spaciousness.

Although the Fairlane never went into production as shown, it directly influenced the design of the Ford Flex, which debuted in 2007 and stayed in production until 2019. The production Flex kept the Fairlane’s boxy shape and general proportions but dropped the concept’s rear-hinged doors. The Fairlane concept didn’t just show a new design—it suggested that minivans could be cool again, blending function with style in a way that was unusual for the segment at the time.