Overview & Reviews

It has the maneuverability of a wagon, the versatility of a minivan and the all-weather capability of an SUV. In a world in which the crossover moniker is perhaps used a bit too generously, the Ford Freestyle is the real deal: a crossover that gives you all the flexibility you'd expect from a vehicle in this category.

This Ford's resourcefulness comes via a spacious cabin that offers lots of cargo room and seating for up to seven passengers. Buyers are also rewarded with an even ride and capable handling, as well as a decent list of safety features. But the picture isn't flawless. Get the Freestyle on the highway and you'll find its engine lacking in oomph and refinement relative to the competition. Also, some of the materials used in its cabin fail to make the grade, and stability control isn't offered.

Were it not for these reasons, the Ford Freestyle would be one of our top recommendations to parents who don't want to drive a minivan. In fact, there's an updated model -- renamed the Ford Taurus X -- that addresses many of the Freestyle's faults. But in regards to the Freestyle, this large wagon is merely one candidate to consider among the many six-, seven- and eight-seat vehicles.

Most Recent Ford Freestyle

The Ford Freestyle was produced for the 2005-'07 model years. It was a crossover with traces of SUV, wagon and minivan in its gene pool. The wagon gene is most dominant, though, as is evidenced by the vehicle's low-slung profile. Mechanically, it was based on the same platform used for a variety of Volvo products of the same time period, including the S60 sedan and XC90 SUV. With three rows of seating, it was capable of seating six or seven passengers, depending on how you equipped it.

Beneath the Freestyle's hood was a 3.0-liter V6 good for 203 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. All models came with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Buyers could opt for a front-wheel-drive Freestyle for the best fuel economy, but those living in rough weather will be glad to learn that an all-wheel-drive version of the wagon was also available.

Initially, there were three trim levels available: SE, SEL and Limited. The SE came decently equipped and had air-conditioning, a CD player, second-row captain's chairs (resulting in a total passenger capacity of six), a power driver seat and full power accessories as standard. The midgrade SEL added an in-dash CD changer, automatic headlights, heated side mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a trip computer. For the Limited, look for its 18-inch wheels, leather upholstery in the first and second rows, dual-zone automatic climate control, upgraded sound system, power passenger seat and driver-side memory, front-seat heaters and 50/50-split capability for the third-row bench.

Antilock brakes were standard, and side-impact airbags (for the front) and head curtain airbags (for all three rows) were optional. Also optional were power-adjustable pedals, a second-row bench (increasing seating capacity to seven), rear parking sensors and, for 2006 and '07 models, a navigation system. For the Freestyle's final model year, Ford realigned the trim levels and discontinued the SE.

Functionality was the guiding principle behind the Ford Freestyle's cabin. There was abundant storage throughout and enough room in both the second and third rows to seat both adults and children in comfort. Nor was it lacking in terms of cargo space thanks to its boxy shape, low floor and the fold-flat capability of both the second- and third-row seats. In back, there was useful cargo area of nearly 16 cubic feet even when all three rows of seating were occupied. With the third row folded flat, capacity swelled to 48 cubic feet. Dropping both rear rows opened up a cavernous 85 cubic feet.

Materials quality was hit-or-miss in the Ford Freestyle, however. The Limited's leather upholstery looked and felt good to the touch, but the cloth upholstery in SEL models was unimpressive, as were some of the interior plastics.

In editorial reviews at the time, our editors praised the Ford Freestyle for its ride quality. The wagon easily smoothed over rough pavement while also providing respectable handling when driven around corners. However, this Ford took considerable criticism when it came to acceleration. When executing high-speed passing moves on the freeway, the 3.0-liter V6's lack of horsepower and noisy operation were immediately apparent. That comment was also a theme in consumer reviews. Owners praise the Freestyle for its fold-flat seats and mid-20s fuel economy, but often take issue with its noisy acceleration.

User Reviews:

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  Great Car - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Freestyle Owner - July 13 - 3:00 pm

  Very smooth quiet ride with a lot room for six people. Gas mile is good for big car. Transmission is excellent. Has a very stable feel on the road.

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  Almost the perfect vehicle - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By Jeff from California - July 11 - 12:42 pm

  As an engineer I tend to research things to the last detail. I was looking for a family car that had a good combination of safety, fuel economy, roominess, luxury, and price value. After looking at everything made, the Freestyle won. We bought used, a 2007 Limited. The car is amazing Titanium green w/tan leather interior...gorgeous... Lots of room for storage and very comfortable. The fuel economy on the highway is almost 30 miles per gallon...no kidding....the navagation system is wonderful and the back up sensors are very helpful, as is the DVD. After 6 months, no issues. My wife, who hates SUVs, loves the car and wont let me drive it....Its simply amazing.....Well Done Ford.

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  Great Ski Car - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By JimfromSanClemente - July 11 - 9:23 am

  We bought this car primarily to take on ski and bicycle trips. We are extremely satisfied with how the Freestyle handles in snow and ice. On one day last winter in blizzard conditions, and with no chains, we had no trouble navigating up a steep driveway that no other car in the lot, including a Hummer, could manage. Very comfortable, roomy, and well designed interior. Zero mechanical problems to date.

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  Over a year and 16,000 miles so far... - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By MacDaddy - July 4 - 6:10 am

  I suppose I may be a typical purchaser for this vehicle ... family guy, kids, dog, and a desire for a fun car but have bowed to practicality. For what this truck/car/SUV/CUV is, its fine. Drives well, feels safe, returns pretty respectable mileage considering its size (21 city/metro and 25-27 highway). I have not had it back to the dealer for anything. Everything works and runs great. Some of my low marks are for below-par plastic finish, and a lack-luster driving experience, though it is competent. Most drivers will not be as sensitive as I am to some of these nuances. It really is a good car and is very safe. Great family hauler.

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  Great for Dogs and Kids and Friends - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By freestylin - June 27 - 3:33 pm

  I bought in 1/2008 w/12k miles. I have only put 12k miles on it but I love it. Kids take it on long trips with friends and love it. Great hwy mileage. Short commute (and lead foot) keeps mpg quite low. Capital Ford/Raleigh just replaced front/rear brakes for free. I love them, too! When was the last time you said that about your dealer service? I have no complaints about the power. Performs well in NC mountains.

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  New Ford is Fun! - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By AGMG - June 27 - 1:46 pm

  I have nothing to complain about with this car. My wife owned a 95 Ford Taurus for 10 years and 182,000 miles prior to our purchasing this car. When we compared it to the 05 Taurus, Expedition and Explorer, it was obviously the best choice for our needs and dollar. Although the CVT takes a little time to get used to because youre used to hearing the car shift, it doesnt lack in performance as many of the auto magazines writers have claimed. Its not a hot rod sports car, but it will get up and out of its way ... you just have to know how to make it do it. We love it and hope they last for another 10 years ... maybe well buy another one then!

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  A Bad Joke! - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Taken In - June 24 - 6:13 pm

  We bought this car, new,from our local dealership. We have never been more unhappy with a car! Even though we always have,we wont buy another Ford product! Things gone wrong: tailgate latch, 2 radio/cd players, seat warmers, rear heater fan, 3 sets of tires-something wrong w/alignment, and now the throttle. Part is on emergency backorder along w/600+ others whose cars are sitting. Dealer solution: car must sit for at least 6 months while waiting for part. Was told all Ford parts are on backorder due to slowing economy and manufacturing problems. Dealership wont give us a loaner or any hope for a reasonable solution, despite our extended warranty. Considering contacting an attorney.

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  Bad Brakes and CVT Transmission - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By tfry - June 24 - 12:17 am

  Problems with transmission fromday one, replaced rear brakes twice (check recall) and now need front brakes, transmission repair at 34,000 miles and at 77,000 need a new transmission $6,500. Acceleration problems from day one and they could never duplicate problem. Vehicle would stop abruptly while driving on highway or accelearate. Terrible on snow slides cant get in my drive with two inches of snow, two sets of tires already! Rear doors have never closed right. Gas tank bracket is on a recall, airconditioning has terrible smell they cant get rid of. most of these problems since new purchase! This vehicle is a lemon DO NOT BUY IT!!!

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  Love this car - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Love this car - June 20 - 12:47 pm

  Just hit 55,000 miles with no major problems. Love taking this car on weekend road trips or even drove cross country a couple of times. Second row seat gets stuck sometimes. Love how the third row seat flips up or down depending on what i am hauling. 3.0 engine is just good enough, but a little more would have been nice.

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  Lovin the Freestyle - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Roughneck - June 16 - 5:10 pm

  I bought my 06 Freestyle about a year with 24k on it and have put another 20k on it since. I love the CVT and how smooth it rides and the engine has more than enough power. Most of my driving is highway and the engine moves my Freestyle faster than any other car I had. The inerior is beautiful and all the features make it feel like a much more expensive car. All these bad reviews are full of it because I am still riding on my same brakes, CVT and Continental tires with no problems. Overall I love everything about my Freestyle and as of 40k dont have anyhting to complain about.