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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  Superior to minivans - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Jeff Adams - August 17 - 3:56 pm

  Weve owned a 1998 Silhouette and loved it. We then bought a 2004 Freestar, but hated it. Bad gas mileage, uncomfortable, noisy. This Freestyle is a blast to drive, is quiet, comfortable, and its so sure-footed. Strangers stare and even ask, "What is that?" Yes, its got an expensive look and feel, yet its priced right. Also, its easy to get in and out of, has an unbelievably tight turning radius, and the gas mileage is impressive. I thoroughly checked out the Highlander, Durango, Pacifica, MDX, Trail Blazer, XL7, Explorer, 4 Runner, Pathfinder, and others. In my opinion, the Freestyle is the most impressive Ford out there, and it leaves most of its competitors behind overall.

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  Dont call my crossover a wagon - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Freeloader - August 11 - 8:50 pm

  This the best vehicle weve ever owned. It has it all. Its functionality is unequaled. Gas mileage is wonderful for an AWD and its fun to drive. The simple fact that its a Volvo dress up like a Ford, only make me happier about buying one. We love ours!

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  This is a great car - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By bob - July 28 - 1:53 am

  Ive had this car for almost three months and so far, so good. It is the smoothest running car Ive ever had and I have had no problems to date. Mileage has been good (around 20 with mostly city/suburban and with a/c) and I expect the mileage to increase with more miles. It has room to spare and the seats (leather) are quite comfortable. It is very solid -- probably due to its Volvo base.

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  All-Around Great Vehicle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By John - July 14 - 9:50 am

  I found my Freestyle a bit sluggish on acceleration, at first. But after the first 1,000 miles or so, that changed. Now when I accelerate from a standing stop..I leave everyone in the dust! For a 4,000 lb. vehicle I think the gas mileage is great. With the A/C on all the time, I get approximately 20 mpg around town and 27 mpg on the highway. It is roomy, comfortable and fun to drive. And it has a ton of hauling capability (with the seats down). My favorite feature is the handling. It responds extremely well and you always feel in total control, even on slippery streets. It is one heck of a vehicle!

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  Wish we could love the Freestyle! - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Gin4 - July 7 - 7:10 am

  We love the look of the Freestyle and are quite pleased with the handling in snow and rain. However, our Freestyle will go in the shop for the second time this year. First time we took it in for repairs the transmission went out at 5000 miles. We were assured that the flaw was corrected when a faulty valve was replaced. We drove it another 20,000 miles and now IF it starts it wont stay running. This problem began about 200 miles ago and is only intermittent which makes it difficult to diagnose. I am hoping against hope that the problem is related to the fuel filter or injectors. I really want to love this vehicle but it has to be more reliable. We are in the market for an extended warranty!

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  I love my new car - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Eileen - July 3 - 9:03 am

  This car is great for kids, my carseats fit in nice and I can actually take my sister and her children without taking a second car. I can even fit 3 carseats in the second row. The seats are easy to fold down and to lift back up,and there is lots of room. This car is so fun to drive, plenty of power for me despite what some people say. Im not one to try and race everyone on the highway.. there is plenty of pick up when needed though.

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  Thank You Ford! - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Randy Knupp - June 16 - 4:20 pm

  Im thankful to Ford for building a car Ive been searching for for years. I really dont like minivans, and SUVs are gas hogs. This car here gets great gas mileage, has lots of room, rides nice, handles like a dream and I could go on and on! I highly recommend this vehicle. I cant find anything wrong with it. I dont understand where the critics are coming from; its like the perfect car for any need. Ford hit a grand slam on this one. I feel like I got a $35,000 car for under 25 grand. I am extremely happy. Once again, thank you Ford!

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  I just love driving this car! - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By Janelle - June 8 - 4:23 pm

  Every time I get behind the wheel of my beautiful blue car, I cant help but smile. I love the stereo controls, etc. on the steering wheel, the handling, the little touches like the mirror for viewing the back seat, the storage capacity, how easy it is to fold the seats down, and how great it has been on several long trips. My daughter just loves to sit in the 3rd row seat with her friends. We have had no problems with the car and have put 8500 miles on it so far! This car just feels like it is solidly built.

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  My lemon - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Olga - May 15 - 3:56 pm

  I purchased my Freestyle in October of 2004. Dealer changed transmission at 3000 miles, changed power window solenoid, and this car caught on fire at about 9000 miles due to manufacturers defect in charging system. Overall during the nine month and 17,000 miles of driving, my Freestyle spent in the shop over a month, and I was happy when I traded it in for Toyota! Other than this, it is roomy, with great visibility, and great idea for the car, but with very poor quality.

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  Not built with pride - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By bigskyride - April 21 - 12:13 pm

  First, the car was delivered with minor dent damage in 3 places which was repaired. Next, I received a recall for new gas tank fasteners. With less than 2500 miles, it started leaking engine oil. Also developed a "bumping" sound in right rear when hitting even a minor bump. The car is not "Built with Pride" as the window sticker says. I should have stayed with my Japanese products!