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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  Consider AWD for snow - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Mike - January 5 - 6:44 pm

  I enjoy this car except for 3 problems: (1) The two wheel drive is the worst and most helpless front wheel drive car I have ever driven in the snow. There is too much power to drive wheels causing wheel to spin easily. (2)I started out averaging about 22 mpg in the city and 25-27 mpg on the highway. It now has taken a turn down word to 18 city and 21-23 Hwy (according to vehicle display). This is not what was promised. (3) The vehicle trade in value towards a new car was insultingly low - $13,800.

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  So far, Going Great - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By JACK♠ - January 1 - 4:32 pm

  I have 19050 miles and been enjoying my FS. The cvt is a pleasure. The ride feels tight and secure, alot better than my 2001 Explorer or Windstar. I would recommend this CUV.

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  Great american sport wagon - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By papka - December 27 - 2:23 pm

  We were looking for practical vehicle with 7 seats and good cargo space. I and my wife like to drive cars and really didnt want to have a minivan. Ive tried new Pathfinder, Pilot, 4Runner, Highlander and Explorer. All of them except Highlander have truck feeling driving. Highlander feels underpowered even with V6 engine. On Freestyle after 2 minutes of driving we realized this was exactly what we were looking for! Freestyle handles like an European luxury big car (thanks to Volvo S80 suspension). Even with 7 seats there is enough cargo space in the back. Freestyle feels a little underpowered on starting, but great when speed increased (thanks to CVT). Gas mileage is good for this vehicle.

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  Fords Best Kept Secret - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Kim - December 21 - 8:16 pm

  I traded in my gas-guzzling Expedition for a Freestyle. Walked into the dealer looking for an Explorer when the Freestyle caught my eye. Went home, did some research and came back to the dealer for a test-drive. Convinced I made the right decision. Compares to a Volvo XC70. Could use bumper guards on the door panels. The thought of a late-model Caddy pulling in the parking space next to you is little unnerving but Ive read the Ford 500 door guards work well as an aftermarket item. Also for chrome tip exhaust ,the Audi A4s are compatible and save you money when it come to upgrading the "look"

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  The Best things are Freestyle - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By WWarther - December 5 - 2:41 pm

  We went from an Excursion to a Freestyle. We were aprehensive at first but it is roomy and I dont knock my head getting the seats. We have put 7 good sized people in the unit and every on was comfortable we probablt topped the 1125 cargo limit but it showed no adverse signs of handling. On vacation we took the Rocky Mountain passes with again a load close to 1k Berthond , Rabbit ears and on the way bak from Oregon and Califonia The Syskius, Donner and Vale pass aagain very comfortably . For the passengers there is pleny of knee room fro those in the rear seat has more knee room than Volvo or Passatt and more seating area as well

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  Best Kept Secret - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By dan allan - December 3 - 10:16 am

  Best kept secret by those dummies at Ford. Why promote one of the best vehicles out there? Im glad they dont, because I would have had to pay a lot more (supply/demand) for mine. Paid $19,200, 12k miles from a dealer. No question the best vehicle I have ever purchased. Put almost 14k miles on it. Had rear brake warranty work done, but other than that, it is flat out the best crossover vehicle out there. 28 mpg on highway. My wife gets 19 mpg in city driving and she likes to go fast. More than acceptable acceleration. If I wanted to go faster, I would have bought a Mustang. Plenty of room inside. Very comfortable to drive. There are deals out there on these. You will not be sorry.

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  First FWD Limited - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By bruneau1 - December 2 - 7:53 pm

  Ford has nailed the crossover vehicle. Ingress/egress is perfect. I love the CVT transmission - so smooth and intelligent in keeping the engine in the correct power band. The interior is very comfortable and in good taste. Our Merlot Metallic is gorgeous. It is very well built. The FWD is faster and quieter than the AWD.

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  Great car, so-so mileage on AWD - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By Brendan - December 1 - 5:08 pm

  Bought it used with 13400 miles on it. Have run two fuel tanks through it now in two weeks. Great handling for a big car. Much better than the 06 Taurus it replaced. Comfort, handling and space utilization is outstanding. 2nd and 3rd row seats dont have any legroom issues. Taller people (511"+) cant use the 3rd row headrests as they hit the headliner first if they lean back. No issues with upright seating position. Worst issue is that with an 80/20 city/highway mix Im getting about 16.5 mpg. Worse than Id expected. Dont think AWD is worth the mileage hit. Engine does get a bit noisy above 2500 rpm. A friend bought an 07 explorer same weekend. He likes mine better.

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  2006 Freestyle SE - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By ojdash - November 29 - 4:13 pm

  Very nice car. I bought an SE for about 3k under TW on here so I am very happy about that. I like the fact that I get duel climate control and power adjustable driver seat on the base model. I couldnt ask for more with a cold-natured fiance. I am usually rougher on cars than most so leather would be a bad option for me. The ride is a bit noisy on the highway but not bad. It is very comfortable and the driving position is perfect. It has about 30k on it. No problems so far. Overall I love it!

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  I love my Freestyle - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By sgoodwin - November 25 - 10:55 pm

  Ive had my car since April 07, have gone across country and back, driven in the pouring rain (I dont worry as much about hydroplanin, and love my car. Its big enough for my 64"-15 yr old son, my daughter and our 4 dogs. So many bells and whistles for a price you cant beat. Ford just doesnt know a good thing when they have it.