The 2013 Ford Flex SUV is set to debut next week at the Los Angeles Auto Show, but the manufacturer has already spilled the beans on some of the improvements that drivers can expect for the model next year.

"Flex appeals to people who want to stand out from the crowd and has the highest retention rate of any vehicle in the Ford lineup," said Mark Fields, president of Ford. "With technologies not found in other full-size utilities, even better fuel economy and a more modern, sophisticated look, we're offering people even more reasons to choose Flex with the new model."

The base model of the Flex now gets 20 more horsepower, bumping it up to 285 overall, while still managing an extra MPG for both city and highway. Customers can also choose to upgrade to the EcoBoost V6 for more fuel economy. The interior has new safety features such as inflatable seatbelts, along with creature comforts like the new version of the Sync system and rain-sensing wipers, according to Autoblog.

Drivers who buy a new Flex or any other vehicle should be sure that they take the proper steps to keep in on the road. Taking the car into an auto maintenance expert and regularly swapping in new tires are just two of the ways that drivers can prolong the life of their vehicle.