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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  My Lemon - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Phil Menico - July 31 - 10:43 am

  During February my doors did not latch and I almost fell out (no indication). Then my daughter got out and the door would not close. The next day the same thing. The dealer said "We cant find the issue." Be careful in cold weather. The rear passenger door does not close properly and the dealer said "It is a design feature, all Freestyles are like that." Watch your kids. Try driving this car with any open window at above 35 MPH. You cant because there is a flapping wind noise that gives you a headache and you cannot hear anyone talking to you. The dealer said "It is a design feature." My Explorers V8 got better mileage than this car.

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  Great family vehicle - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By newfrstylawd06 - July 28 - 6:13 am

  Just got the Limited AWD with NAV, adjust pedal, safety option, reverse sensing, DVD, 2nd row buckets. Chose this over minivans and SUVs after months of research. LOVE IT! A lot of bang for the buck over Honda or Toyota vans if you can give up sliding doors and both rows folding flat. For a family of 4 this is more than enough room and a great look. Also, no one knows what it is. All of my MOM friends are amazed by its comfort and room. Its like a super wagon more than a van. It handles like a car more than a truck which I like. The drivers seat is so supportive & accommodating to a short driver ( better than previous cars). My 61" husband also has plenty of room. Great alternative to minivan.

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  Freestyle on the Road - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Gabe - July 11 - 5:56 am

  Deceiving room for a smaller vehicle. Sits 6 adults comfortably. Drives like a car but performs like an SUV,

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  A Great Value & Confident Decision - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Jim - July 6 - 4:43 am

  Purchased a few weeks ago after test driving just about every SUV out there. Our choice was a Limted AWD, Black on Black. We have received numerous compliments from friends and family. Other vehicle is a Acura MDX, and the Freestyle is equal in equipment (if not more) and ride. Average 17+ mpg city. I am 63" and there is plenty of room both rear seating areas. Handling is extremely responsive and the 18" wheels really stand out. Freestyle is much cheaper than comparable crossover SUVs with same equipment and it doesnt ride like a truck!

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  A Great Value & Confident Decision - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Jim - July 6 - 4:43 am

  Purchased a few weeks ago after test driving just about every SUV out there. Our choice was a Limted AWD, Black on Black. We have received numerous compliments from friends and family. Other vehicle is a Acura MDX, and the Freestyle is equal in equipment (if not more) and ride. Average 17+mpg city. I am 63" and there is plenty of room both rear seating areas. Handling is extremely responsive and the 18" wheels really stand out. Freestyle is much cheaper than comparable X-SUVs with same equipment and it doesnt ride like a truck!

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  Relaxing Drive - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Kat - June 25 - 10:30 am

  My new Freestyle is incredibly comfortable. I first noticed it going around corners. You glide through the turn and experience very little swaying. The seating is just wonderful, and the storage when the seats fold down is amazing. I usually buy a car and just drive treating the car like just a car. This one took me by surprise--great handling and braking, comfortable ride, and good gas mileage. I love my Freestyle.

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  Best of cars, vans and trucks - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By k - June 17 - 6:20 am

  The AWD handles hills and turns with confidence. The CVT adjusts "gear" ratio on slopes reserving enough power going up and sparing the brake from stress going down. Interior is nice, roomy and comfortable. Pick up from stand still is sluggish but mid-range acceleration ok. I wont make a fuss about the 0-60 number though since the gas mileage matches most larger cars and easily beats the Pilot. Ride is good except on the heavily damaged highways, which can be quite rough. Engine is noisy when pushed but very quiet otherwise. This car looks good in and out.

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  my Freestyle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By chomps35 - June 3 - 5:53 am

  I have driven a Ford pickup for at least 15 years, from a 150 to a Ranger. I have enjoyed all. I recently needed to find a vehicle that was more suited to health issues. I had been thinking of a minivan. My salesman mentioned the Freestyle, but had me test drive both. I was very impressed with the Freestyle. The ease of getting in as well as just the drive itself. I have read many reviews before and after I got it. I have no trouble with u-turns or get up and go. The room inside is almost as good as a pickup, but a pickup is always good to have. I am leasing this vehicle but theres a good possibility I will keep it.

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  Great Crossover - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By CDN Driver - June 1 - 2:50 pm

  A very easy vehicle to drive. Great visibility and handling. CVT performs well. Fit and finish are impressive. Interior controls work well and lots of places to store stuff.

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  You dont have to buy a minivan! - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By chrisma - May 19 - 3:43 pm

  This car is your solution to not buying a minivan. Plenty of space. Plenty of toys. Plenty of power. If you want more power, buy a Mustang. If you want more gas mileage, buy a Focus. This car is a good blend of multiple needs (space, power, gas mileage, comfort, etc).