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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  Best Bang for the Buck - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Danny - November 1 - 3:53 am

  I never thought I would buy a new car, but with zero percent financing and Ford incentives, I had no choice. The car is fantastic. I recently went on a 700 mile (11.5 hour) trip to North Carolina and I couldnt be more pleased. The versatility was incredible. I traveled with my wife and dog (full lab); (2 suit cases, 3 carry-on size bags, a back pack, dog kennel, cooler, etc.) and the dog had the entire back set to herself. We met two other couples there and went on a day journey and the three rows of seating couldnt have been better. The guy who sat in the back was 6 and said he was plenty comfortable. We drove with two stops each way and I was not the least bet cramped. 22+mpg and excellent ride.

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  One year later, still love it - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By Brendan - November 1 - 1:16 am

  Previous review 21/1/07 - "Great car, so-so mileage on AWD". Almost one year later, still love this car at 29000 miles. Hugely comfortable. Noticing the climate control buttons take a little too much attention to operate (small buttons, big fingers). Would prefer some dials for mode selection. Had rear brakes replaced at 24K - common problem. Thats the only problem though. Mileage has improved as Ive learned how to drive it (i.e. - relax!). Getting 18 city and 24-27 on freeway, depending on speed (27 at 60, 24 at 70). Carry 6 people to lunch on regular basis. Trip from WA to CO was a huge success with lots of room and no driver fatigue. Still feels/smells new to me.

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  Better than expected - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Doug - October 27 - 3:20 am

  Other than a lack of acceleration our Freestyle has exceeded our expectations. The interior is roomy and offers many seating and cargo options. The drive and feel of a medium to large sedan. Exterior looks and finish are exceptional. Ford has developed a fine crossover between SUV and van, it offers the best qualities of both.

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  Great Buy - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Richard Awad - October 19 - 11:29 pm

  Yes, acceleration has some noise, and the road bumps arent absorbed as nicely as my Explorer, but I just took two long trips, over 1,000mi combined, set the cruise on 57 and get 31.6 mpg. Car is well maintained, clean filters, oil, etc. New Michelins as the Pirellis were loud and awful. I know that Im not driving a Lexus, so some things are to be expected, but 31.6 makes me accept a few flaws. Near 20 city (never accelerate over 2000 rpm, dont rush to the next red light, etc) and mid 20s overall. Plenty of cargo space, handles very well on tight turns, no sway, holds the road well, has good acceleration, a bit weak when you ask it for more on the highway. A real nice car thats underrated.

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  2005 Ford Freestyle AWD - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By DWin - October 7 - 3:59 am

  I purchased my Freestyle used in 2008 with 32k miles. The CVT is smooth but takes some getting used to. Low end torque is lacking but a wide-open throttle command at highway speed reveals the hidden upper-rpm power. The interior is average but adequate but not the most comfortable ride for long hauls (400 miles or more). Reliability is another strong point.

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  Just Purchased - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By sparty98_gw - October 5 - 10:00 am

  Put this car on your list of cars to test drive. Several reviews complain about the CVT "feel" and power. Being from the automotive industy and an enthusiast I can tell the difference, but the execution is much better than other manufacurures CVTs I drove 3 years ago. My wife did not know it was a CVT until I told her. The average driver will not know unless they really push the car to accelerate hard and then they might notice the engine noise a bit. The interior space and layout are top notch. The handling dynamics are excellent for a car like this and the break feel is especially good. Goodby SUVs, hello MPG.

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  Transmission failure - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Rob - September 27 - 10:59 am

  My wife bought this car new to carry kids/dog/groceries and liked the third seat and the gas mileage. Didnt get the AWD to get better gas mileage, although we should have. At 31,000 miles, the transmission failed in heavy traffic, freeway driving in a driving rain. Suddenly in neutral and no forward power after a catastrophic weld failure in the CVT trasnmission. Thankfully under warranty but repairs would have been $3500. Now forced to trade the car or buy the extended warranty for $2000. Would not buy another one.

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  Bad Brakes - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Jennifer - September 24 - 1:15 pm

  It needs its rear brakes changed for the 3rd time and the rotors redone for the 2nd time! Its going to cost another $400. They were just changed 22,000 miles ago. The rear door handles were also recalled because when it gets too cold they would pop open while driving. The O ring in the transmission had to be replaced with less 100 miles on it. When it rains water drips from the passenger visor screw hole and they cant find the source.

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  NC Freestyle Review - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By jermnc77 - September 19 - 11:00 am

  Enjoy the ride of the vehicle. A lot of people dont know what it is though. I got the base model without leather. Cloth seats do stain easily and arent easy to clean without making water stains. It does have rear AC/heat. Added on the DVD system and second row center console after I purchased it. So its basically a next level up from base now. Was extremely disappointed in gas mileage though. Sticker stated 22/28. Commercials stated 500 miles to a tank of gas. Ive never experienced 28 mpg or that many miles to a tank. What I do enjoy about the car is the versatility of it. Its a great person carrier. Is very comfortable to travel in. Love the smooth as silk CVT transmission.

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  Best Vehicle I have owned! - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By Lovin it - September 11 - 8:50 pm

  I have only had my Freestyle a week, but I am already in love. It gets great gas mileage and so user friendly. And it has all the bells and whistles. And seats 6 for hauling the kids and friends. And the CVT transmission is a true asset. This is Fords best kept secret. I let my dad drive it and he swore he felt it shift. He still doesnt get it. Best thing ever spent my money on.