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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  I flash my lights! - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Manager - August 7 - 11:36 pm

  I really enjoy driving this replacement for our Ford Aerostar. We were concerned about losing the roominess of our van but when I drove this against the Pacifica and reviewed other wagons there was no comparison to the functionality of the space. I drove 3 hours daily (on avg. 200 miles) for the first 2 months that we owned the vehicle. Most days I drove my Audi 100 (1989) that had better gas mileage but I looked forward to the days that I drove the Freestyle. I read that Ford has sold a bit more than 45k since 2005 but ear-marked sales at 100k and thus feel that they have missed their goals. I say great because when I see other people who have made this great choice I flash my lights!

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  I REALLY want to love it, but... - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By mikejbam - August 7 - 3:56 am

  This was both my first new car and my first Ford. The dealership was awesome and made the buying of the vehicle both fun and easy. As for the Freestyle, I wouldnt change a thing about it. The power is adequate for me and the ride is better than anything else Ive driven. Interior is very comfortable and the stereo and DVD system are lots of fun and sound great. My only problem with the vehicle so far is that we havent had much time to drive since the rear end failed at just over 200 miles and its been back at the dealership being repaired. Oh well ... thats what the warranty is for I guess. Probably should have listened to my parents and gone for the Subaru. :)

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  Complete Satisfaction - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Dave Martin - August 6 - 10:50 am

  We have had this vehicle for five weeks, have 1050 miles on it. We are averaging 20.7 miles per gallon. My wife fell in love, first with the color (Merlot), second with the lite beige interior, third the ease of getting in and out. It is very quiet, and we have had many compliments on the 2006 Freestyle. P.S.I love it too.

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  Great car! - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Johanna Bro - August 3 - 6:43 pm

  I had the first year Windstar, and we traded it in on the last year Ford made Windstar. We traded that Windstar in on the Freestyle this year. Im a mother of two teenagers. And we are all comfortable in it along with dog, husband and stuff. I especially think this time the overall quality seems superior to the Windstar. The Freestyle feels more solid, safe, and still is a kick to drive. I like it on the highway and found that if I really needed to accelerate, the car would for me.

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  An Excellent Vehicle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Puchie - July 23 - 8:40 pm

  Coming from and SUV this is a truly wonderful ride. There is so much room and comfort and the safety features are great! Kids dont like the mini van as it is for OLD people but I LOVE it

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  New purchase - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By RGankiewicz - June 30 - 11:13 am

  New Freestyle is a welcome change from driving a Ford Explorer. Vehicle handles well. Engine is a bit noisy on acceleration then levels out when highway driving. Lots of room, plenty of cargo space, better gas mileage than an Explorer.

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  We Really Like Our Freestyle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Arman Balk - June 27 - 5:56 pm

  My wife and I are seniors and have had three Ford wagons. We find the Freestyle to be a pleasure to operate. It is easy to get in and out of, gives excellent visibility, handles very well, and rides smoothly. The CVT is very smooth. The engine gives us plenty of power and good gas mileage - driving 65 MPH we get 26 to 31, depending on conditions. We like the 6 passenger seating and all the cargo room provided by fold down seats. We think the styling is excellent and have had many complements on this.

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  Call me "Freestyler" now - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Ronnie Scinto - June 17 - 5:26 am

  My partner and I looked at many SUVs when it came time to turn in our thirsty Lexus LS470. We test drove the Passport, Highlander, the Subaru B9, and the Explorer (mind you -- we were coming out of a Lexus). Not impressed with any till we saw the Freestyle in the showroom sitting lonesome. I got in and was happy. This car made me smile. We test drove it and I was hooked and so was my other half. I cant tell you how comfortable this car is (we are both over 6 tall). It drives like a dream - youll have to get used to the CVT, But quality and design is that of out Lexus and with more comfort. Our dealership was great -- no pressure and the friendliest group of guys ever! I love my Freestyle!

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  Happy with new Limited AWD - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By tommo - June 5 - 7:43 am

  After shopping quite a few other vehicles, including Highlander, Pilot, Equinox & Sienna, bought a Limited AWD. Was won over by the interior design, overall size and ride quality. After 1000 miles, Im quite happy. The interior is every bit as flexible and comfortable as Id hoped, there is more than enough power compared to other vehicles Ive owned, and the overall driving experience is terrific. Mileage is at least equal to the EPA est: I get about 24.5 - 25 on the highway, except in very mountainous terrain, where it drops to about 22.5. Still very good for a car of this size. Very stable and quiet at highway speeds.

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  freestylin - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By mejones42 - May 26 - 10:03 am

  The car drives great..The new design works for us having 3 sons under 5 yoa..They climb all over it and it holds up great. The controls on the steering wheel are easy to use. The CVT transmission is pretty weird at first, but after getting used to it, it really has some power and passes very good on the interstate at high speed..