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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  Great family car - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Heather - November 22 - 9:33 pm

  We were a little hesitant about getting this vehicle since it was the first year for it. We love the car; it drives great, the room is unbelievable. We have the 3rd row seat and also the entertainment package. As my son said, all he needs is a soda and popcorn and its better than the movies.

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  Ultimate Combo - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By David S - November 22 - 9:30 am

  Our car really provides the best of both worlds for my wife and me. We are either carrying numerous passengers or large items. It provides great flexibility with all of the seat configurations of the 2nd and 3rd rows. We have comfortably carried up to 7 passengers. Even the 3rd row has good leg room. We have driven over 17,000 miles with no problems. Our gas mileage has been just about as rated. Certainly, we have seen the extreme lows of 17 mpg when driving strictly "stop and go". However, we have also experienced around 30 mpg on numerous of occasions of straight highway driving. So, our average has been approximately 22 mpg. The CVT is smooth, and the AWD tracking is great.

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  from sports car to station wagon - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By AustinMD - November 16 - 9:06 am

  With a third child in the last 4 years and a wife who manages my practice out of our home, it was clear we needed my car to be able to do some of the kid hauling. I looked for 9 months at all the options, including BMW, Lexus, Cadillac & Lincoln Mercury sedans, the Volvo XC90 (tied for my favorite with the Freestyle, but not worth the extra $20k), the BMW SUV, the Lexus SUVs, and we already owned a Ford Expedition. Many of these driven for 24 hours, and the Freestyle won out (despite my desire to avoid getting what comes eerily close to looking like my childhood Chevy station wagon). The AWD locks down on wet roads like glue, and has GREAT acceleration. It just needs better lumbar support.

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  Pleased "New User" - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Larry Marks - November 8 - 2:53 pm

  After our first 6 weeks we realize that we pick a winner. First tank of gas City Driving has proven 22 MPG. Rides like a dream, no squeaks and engine appears to be smooth and powerful. Highway trip is next.

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  Very Nice Car - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By New car buyer - November 4 - 11:50 pm

  We have four young children. It is very easy for them to get in and out. They have plenty of room for their things. The DVD player is awesome. We have had vans in the past and were going to buy another until we saw this car. I thought it would be too small until looking at it. Very happy with all aspects of this car!

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  North Country Driver is Impressed - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Jennifer - October 23 - 8:03 am

  I was reluctant to own an SUV or minivan -- I commute 80 miles a day. But because of winter driving (and a growing family) it seemed to make sense to drive something with good ground clearance. We test drove about eight vehicles before settling on the Ford -- and I was no fan of Fords so ending up with this car was a complete surprise! I am pleased with the handling of this car and there is no shortage of space. Mileage is consistently around 22-23 with a few tanks of gas getting 25 mpg. This was the first Freestyle in the area and it has gotten a lot of positive comments on the nice looks and functionality.

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  finally! A USA car better than subaru - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By jschreiber - September 22 - 5:56 am

  Outstanding vehicle with tight driving feel despite wagon size, excellent mileage and terrific AWD a la Volvo (same platform and AWD).

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  Great smaller SUV - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Richard - September 20 - 2:26 pm

  Its a great small SUV and handles very well. True, it is a bit underpowered, but its a sharp looking, nicely equipped vehicle with tons of room for cargo and people. I love it! Having a daughter in college moving in and out of dorms, I needed the large room, but not the large fuel costs of a Tahoe or Explorer.

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  A Joy to Drive - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Judy Holland - September 18 - 8:10 pm

  I had a Acura and I love it. I did not think I could find anything better but the Freestyle is a joy to drive. I dont have the power that I was used to but in all other ways it is wonderful. I only have 8,000 miles on it but so far no problems. Great on long trips. One small complaint is the way the gas cap fits. Not designed for a womans hand to take off. I always have a problem. But if that is all I can find wrong I will be happy for a long time.

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  I LOVE my Freestyle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Don M. - August 25 - 11:13 pm

  The Freestyle is a fun to drive, classy looking, crossover that boggles peoples minds. I find the acceleration more than adequate for my needs. The fuel mileage is pretty good for an AWD vehicle with traction control. The vehicle handles well, the braking is superb, and the ride is awesome even when fully loaded. Six people have ridden in this vehicle and were amazed by the comfort, and really couldnt get over the stadium type seating. To think that I didnt even consider this vehicle when I started looking for a new vehicle, I feel that for the cost of this vehicle, I just might have purchased the best vehicle Ive ever owned. This little gem provides a lot of bang for the buck!