The Ford Fairlane concept does not remind us at all of its classic namesakes from the 1950s and '60s. It's likely more useful, however, and in this newer form, equally as emotionally appealing. The all-wheel-drive, six-passenger "minivan with desire" is reminiscent of a few other vehicles including:
- the early '70s Ford Bronco with the squarish front fenders and wide front face
- the current Mini Cooper with its white roof and attractive appearance
- an original Jeep Wagoneer in its boxy versatility
We could definitely see ourselves enjoying many weekend trips or vacations in a vehicle like this. Think magnified Scion xB or Honda Element. Or Ford Freestyle, which is within two inches of the Fairlane in wheelbase, width, and height, while the Freestyle is more than 9 inches longer overall. The Fairlane rides on the Ford's corporate CD3 platform, which it shares with the newly announced 2006 Ford Fusion and Lincoln Zephyr.
Powering the Fairlane is a 3.0-liter Duratec V-6 mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Other features we noted were the requisite DVD screen in the back, fold-flat rear seats, 4x4 tires, and suicide doors that retain the B-pillar for rigidity.