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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  Long distance trip review - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By jjones - July 25 - 12:45 pm

  I just got back from a LONG trip through many states, including going through the Appalacian mountains. The trip with my family totaled over 2,200 miles. The Freestyle was a great vehicle, offering plenty of room for a family of four with lots of luggage. My experience was that it had PLENTY of passing power. The CVT would ramp up to 5.8K RPM and the car would FLY by anything on the road. Of course, it sounded like the world was coming to an end. Overall, there was not much to complain about. The computer said I averaged ~23 MPG over each tank, which is not bad for a car full of people and luggage.

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  Beware of transmission! - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Patricia Doyle - July 24 - 6:46 pm

  We purchased our Freestyle in 8/06 and were initially very pleased with it. It handled well and looked sharp. The kids loved it too. We had problems, though, with the dashboard lights (fuel cap, check engine, etc.) going on and off. Finally the worst happened July 7th. While riding on the NJ Turnpike, our transmission died. We were shocked (but thankfully safe). The car had only 12,800 miles. The transmission needed to be replaced and we were using a rental for two weeks. Ford didnt even reimburse us for all of our expenses. The car is back and is running fine. Im very disappointed with Ford, though. I thought they would take better care of us throughout this ordeal.

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  Good family car with great potential - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Great Scot - July 23 - 8:32 am

  Winter AWD is compromised by the poor OEM tires from Continental, poor to very poor traction in snow, ice, slush, heavy rain. Few tires available in 215x65x17 size and few aftermarket wheels for winter tires. The car is excellent for family use and variety of configurations for many uses. Fuel economy is poor in general use (18-20 mpg) highway constant at 65 mph is a little better at 22-23 mpg. Better tires might help economy.

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  A Good Car - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By James Weidner - July 21 - 9:34 pm

  I have found this car to be a joy. The gas mileage is about 5-6 miles more per gallon than my last 2 Explorers. The car rides very well and is much quieter. I expect it to do well in the New Hampshire winters with the AWD too.

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  Gas Mileage - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Mom - July 17 - 10:02 am

  I am always taking my kids to their next activity. We have plenty of room for travel, friends, equipment. Gas mileage stays around 20mpg in the city which I consider to be good. Going on a long to Florida this summer we never got better gas mileage than 21.2. If you buy this car you will love it for its room and comfort, but dont expect 27 mpg on the highway. I would buy it again.

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  I loved this car, but its a lemon :( - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Brian - July 17 - 1:13 am

  We bought the LTD AWD as a step away from a minivan for its versatility and modern design. The early ownership experience was very positive, with just two flaws noted - the lack of foot room for third row occupants under the second row seat that limits the effective leg room of the third row and the rear view mirror view that is one-third blocked by the sunroof controls for taller drivers. The acceleration was good with the CVT and the drive train was very smooth. Only on uphill on-ramps would the engine labor to get the 4,000 pound plus vehicle to move quickly. Alas, two CVT failures at the 2,000 mile mark have soured the ownership experience. Ford roadside assistance is also poor with 2+ hour waits.

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  Very Happy - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By Paul - July 16 - 10:43 am

  Just bought the Freestyle after looking at minivans. No real competitors to this vehicle. Decided to go with the Freestyle after other minivans felt too bulky while driving and the comfort was not as good. Took a 500 mile trip over the weekend, love the ride, very smooth and very comfortable. Also have an Expedition, Freestyle is more comfortrable. Replaced a Honda CRV because it was too noisy, a stiff ride, and fuel useage was no better than 25mpg. Freestyle got 25+ on trip, very good for a heavier vehicle with V6. When compared to CRV its outstanding.

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  A very competent vehical - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Gator Fan - July 2 - 10:46 am

  Our family has enjoyed our Freestyle on trips, and it is not bad around town. It is easy to park. Mileage has been 18 to 20 in town, and 25 to 26 highway.

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  Not enough leg room driver side - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Piere - June 27 - 2:50 pm

  Fun to drive, but for a 62" i need 3- 4" to adjust the driver seat back. Major design fault, the seat can not be adjusted back far enough, so most tall guys can forget buying this car.

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  Good Family Car - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By Big E - June 22 - 11:59 am

  Our Freestyle is a great family car as it adapts very quickly and easily. My nine year old son has no problem flipping the back seats when extra cargo room is needed but it is also great to have seating for six when needed. Car handles very well and is easy to drive. I wanted to get my wife a nSUV but not a large one. The Freestyle is a perfect choice for us.