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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  FPs Objective Review - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Fpilch - May 23 - 10:33 am

  Overall a great vehicle, while I have driven SUVs for years, gas prices were killing me. At first I was moving towards a new car then I seen this and BAM it hit the spot the room of a SUV, ride of a luxury car and compared to the usual SUV great gas mileage. Acceleration is a little sluggish off the line but once going it hauls. My recommendation though is go with all the options and a SEL the price difference is insignificant compared to the comfort and convenience.

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  Dont believe the car magazines! - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Jim Triebwasser - May 17 - 2:30 am

  Dont believe the car magazines! This car/wagon is a great car for those with kids or have a lot to carry. The flip and fold seats provide an unlimited way of configuring the interior. We got the 6 passenger, with 2nd row center console, and DVD. The power is pretty good, but who is going to go 100 mph with the kids in it? It is a great remake of the Ford 500 wagon. The car handles well, and the ride is super. We came out of a E150 Chateau van, and have not had any problem with all the "stuff" we want to carry.

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  Great Choice - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By C25sailor - May 13 - 12:46 am

  After driving either a European sedan or SUV for 20 years, I decided to give the Freestyle a try. I got tired of wearing out a $40,000 dollar vehicle every 3 years and burning lots of gas doing it. After driving the Freestyle for 9 months -- Im amazed at how happy I am with it. Overall mileage at about 22mpg, comfortable and enjoyable to drive and ride, plenty of performance, (it isnt a sports car -- but has enough zip to do whatever you need) and more utility in a better package than any vehicle Ive owned or driven. I havent met an unsatisfied owner yet. Highly recommended.

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  Great Car - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Bill - April 23 - 9:13 am

  Freestyle has a lot room, quiet and smooth ride. Gas mileage has been reasonable for a large car. Acceleration is very good for a large car that gets decent gas mileage.

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  2005 Ford Freestyle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By oakley1 - April 11 - 3:23 am

  Great gas mileage. Comfortable to drive. Not too pleased with the interior. Had a 2002 Explorer XLT, interior was first class; the Freestyle has a lot of low-grade plastic and the seat controls are weak. Would also like the tailgate window to open. Very comfortable on trips, stable in wind and rain.

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  Freestyle the perfect blend - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Chris - March 18 - 5:23 pm

  My wife and I had to find a family car - Mustangs just dont take car seats. The roominess inside is great, even 3rd row. Excellent cargo capacity while lacking that soccer-mom image. Our first choice. The Pacifica didnt even compare - overpriced, no room inside, seats didnt look like they went down. Every time we test drove the car it just felt right, even after driving a Honda Odyssey with all the creature comforts. Would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a family car.

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  Got it the other day... - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By FreestyleSilvah - March 13 - 3:50 pm

  Just got a Ford Freestyle, SEL, its niiice! :) Superb size/capacity, pretty good on gas, especially hwy, comfort and style, LOTS of "technological doo-dads." Well worth it to get the extras, especially with the family deal Ford is running. Also they give $1000 extra off; a $30,000 dollar vehicle for a $23k or so price :) Very, very happy.

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  Great mini SUV - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By George - March 3 - 10:53 pm

  The seating arrangements are fabulous, the size is great, the ability to fold all the seats down , make it an excellent carrying vehicle. Just an overall great car, like it better than the Windstar. All the "bells and whistles" make it NO.1 in my estimation.

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  Smooth - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By M Krebs - March 3 - 1:23 pm

  Third row is hard to access when the optional 2nd row bench is ordered. Car averaging 25 mpg in mixed driving; not bad for 7 passengers with A/C on. Ride is butter smooth, not a squeak or a rattle, CVT transmission very smooth. Car rides very much like a Volvo for quite a bit less money. Great brakes. I would recommend driving the Freestyle before purchasing a competitors offering. This is the best Ford yet.

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  Love It! - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Marianne - March 3 - 12:46 am

  Traded our monster 03 Expedition in for the Freestyle. We could not be happier. Since kids we have had three vans, the Expedition, and now the Freestyle. The Freestyle is our favorite by far! You have all the room - without it being a minivan or a hard to park, gas eating large SUV. There is more room behind the back seat for strollers, groceries, etc. than in my Expedition. I also like how easy it is to get everyone in and out. Access to the rear seat is easy, with lots of leg room for our 6 foot tall, 14 year old son. I have had no trouble with acceleration at all. I use I-95 several times per week, and the merge is always easy - up to speed in no time, without flooring it.