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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  Better than a van - 2006 Ford Freestyle
  By FRITZ - December 20 - 1:27 pm

  In the Northeast, there is always the threat of snow, sleet, etc. We had a good run with AWD Astro vans, SUVs,and Subarus. But for the money, this is hands down the best wagon/van/suv!! Average 21 MPG in local travel, dont get much highway use. Rivals any AWD/4WD vehicle we every owned in sloppy conditions. Hope Ford just keeps refining and building this vehicle.

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  Simply the Best! - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Mr Barry - December 18 - 5:30 am

  I have never had so much fun driving! This car is simply amazing. The Continuously Variable Transmission is fantastic. No gears to shift through, so you get a completely smooth ride up and down the speedo. This is the first vehicle Ive had that caters not just to me, but also to my family. The Freestyle is simply the best in breed - hands down. EPA estimates were 19/27. I am seeing an average of 22/30 with my AWD SEL.

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  Love My Underrated Freestyle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By CSForest - December 9 - 12:36 am

  Loved my 95 Explorer & was looking for another SUV or Crossover. Just couldnt see myself in a mini-van. Was concerned at 1st about CVT & 1st yr model (Id had a 1st yr model Chevy lemon years ago). MPG is really good (21 city / 28 highway). Absolutely love this car! Wish Ford had advertised & sold more! The 3rd row seating w/rear storage behind is wonderful. Works like a trunk when hauling small loads of groceries home or can fold seats flat for the larger monthly Costco runs! I plan to hold onto this one for a long time to come.

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  Fine Car - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By Richard - December 2 - 7:18 am

  I always wanted a Freestyle and found a real bargain in the local area. Ive had the vehicle about 6 weeks. Brakes had been repaired before I bought it. Otherwise, the vehicle has been perfect. Wifes car, and I was a little skeptical as she traded a 2002 Lincoln Continental. Its not a Continental, but she loves the high seating and comfort the vehicle offers.

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  Future Vehicle - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Dan Russo - November 20 - 4:46 am

  The Ford Freestyle is an awesome vehicle. The ride and comfort is great. I love not going broke at the gas pump. These crossover vehicles are the future. Theyre less expensive than SUVs and are better on gas. Ford did an excellent job with this vehicle. Perfect!

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  Freestyle was perfect for us! - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By Richard Smith - November 16 - 3:10 pm

  We love this car. Practical, comfortable for 4, and practical for 6 (we have all buckets). We have kids to take to and from college and a couple of dogs, and this car always has the room we need. The fuel economy has been great. With careful driving, we average 23 MPG driving around the burbs and 26 on the highway. This cars mileage really goes up if you drive with a light foot. Comfortable and practical, this car is just what we wanted.

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  Concerned about brakes - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By Tammy - November 9 - 3:17 pm

  I got my Freestyle last year as a Christmas gift after my van was totaled. I absolutely love it. It is so comfortable and easy to get in and out of. I have 2 kids so the third row seat is a blessing. We can travel and the boys each have their own space. Every trip we have taken has been great. I have back and hip trouble and I havent had to stop and stretch or take any breaks it is so comfy to ride in.

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  Best Bang for the Buck - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Danny - November 1 - 3:53 am

  I never thought I would buy a new car, but with zero percent financing and Ford incentives, I had no choice. The car is fantastic. I recently went on a 700 mile (11.5 hour) trip to North Carolina and I couldnt be more pleased. The versatility was incredible. I traveled with my wife and dog (full lab); (2 suit cases, 3 carry-on size bags, a back pack, dog kennel, cooler, etc.) and the dog had the entire back set to herself. We met two other couples there and went on a day journey and the three rows of seating couldnt have been better. The guy who sat in the back was 6 and said he was plenty comfortable. We drove with two stops each way and I was not the least bet cramped. 22+mpg and excellent ride.

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  One year later, still love it - 2007 Ford Freestyle
  By Brendan - November 1 - 1:16 am

  Previous review 21/1/07 - "Great car, so-so mileage on AWD". Almost one year later, still love this car at 29000 miles. Hugely comfortable. Noticing the climate control buttons take a little too much attention to operate (small buttons, big fingers). Would prefer some dials for mode selection. Had rear brakes replaced at 24K - common problem. Thats the only problem though. Mileage has improved as Ive learned how to drive it (i.e. - relax!). Getting 18 city and 24-27 on freeway, depending on speed (27 at 60, 24 at 70). Carry 6 people to lunch on regular basis. Trip from WA to CO was a huge success with lots of room and no driver fatigue. Still feels/smells new to me.

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  Great Buy - 2005 Ford Freestyle
  By Richard Awad - October 19 - 11:29 pm

  Yes, acceleration has some noise, and the road bumps arent absorbed as nicely as my Explorer, but I just took two long trips, over 1,000mi combined, set the cruise on 57 and get 31.6 mpg. Car is well maintained, clean filters, oil, etc. New Michelins as the Pirellis were loud and awful. I know that Im not driving a Lexus, so some things are to be expected, but 31.6 makes me accept a few flaws. Near 20 city (never accelerate over 2000 rpm, dont rush to the next red light, etc) and mid 20s overall. Plenty of cargo space, handles very well on tight turns, no sway, holds the road well, has good acceleration, a bit weak when you ask it for more on the highway. A real nice car thats underrated.