Funkmaster Flex Forgoes Flames on "Subdued" 2010 Taurus SHO at 2009 SEMA Auto Show

LAS VEGAS — Undoubtedly, 2009 SEMA Auto Show goers will glance at the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO by Funkmaster Flex and wonder if the celebrity DJ and car customizer is depressed. His SHO is a study in restraint, something that he calls "subdued."

"[It] doesn't scream at you in terms of its paint job and overall effect," Funkmaster Flex said in a statement released by Ford on Tuesday. "I really took a vehicle that already had everything in terms of its styling and design and gave it a real stealth-like feel."

In a venue where Subaru presented a WRX STI with a custom sleigh and Scion threw in everything on its offerings — including the kitchen sink — the Funkmaster Flex Taurus SHO stands out for its minimalism. A cynical observer might call it a phone-it-in quality.

The exterior gets two-tone black and metal gray paint underscored by custom 22-inch wheels and Pirelli tires. The SHO was lowered with an HR spring kit. Other details include a one-off front spoiler and a rear window wing.

The interior was barely touched. The only additions are a black suede headliner and FMF logos on the headrests.

"Flex really created a design that veered away from what we traditionally expect of him," said Earl Lucas, the SHO's designer, in a statement.

Inside Line says: Hmm, Flex appears ready to turn his attention to hearse design. — Anita Lienert, Correspondent