2004 Ford Freestar: Road Test
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2004 Ford Freestar ▼
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- MSRP: $21,530 -$33,090
- Invoice: $19,617 -$29,905
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Our road test for the 2004 Ford Freestar includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Ford Freestar from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Ford Freestar, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Ford Freestar help you decide if a 2004 Ford Freestar is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 4.6 |
Only models with 4.2-liter V6 made available for testing so far. With this engine, Freestar and Monterey have sufficient power for most driving situations. Transmission delivers smooth, prompt shifts.
FUEL ECONOMY
| SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4 |
Test Monterey with 4.2 V6 averaged 16.6 mpg in a mix of city/highway driving. Both V6s use regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.7 |
Long wheelbase provides stable ride, though sharp bumps and ruts register sharply. We have not tested a Freestar with optional 17-inch tires. Body structure transmits unpleasant vibration on coarse pavement.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.6 |
Handling is merely competent, with noticeable body lean in turns. Smooth, progressive brake-pedal feel, but stopping power feels unexceptional.
QUIETNESS
| SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.2 |
V6 sounds coarse and strained when cold or under full throttle. Very little wind noise at highway speeds. Road noise modest in front but much louder in back. Despite upscale positioning, Monterey seems only marginally quieter than Ford Freestar overall.
CONTROLS
| SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.1 |
Freestar and Monterey share dashboard design. Instrument layout clear. Most controls handy and well-marked, but those for climate system mounted too low for easy driver access. Mercury version has more bright interior trim than Ford model and some slightly richer-feeling materials, but in general, both Freestar and Monterey cabins abound with budget-grade plastic.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.2 |
Height-adjustable seats and power-adjustable pedals standard on uplevel models, available as options on most others and allow ample seating adjustment. Very tall drivers may wish for more rearward seat travel, however. Optional cooled front seats exclusive to Monterey work quickly for added comfort in hot weather. Outward visibility good to all directions. Monterey comes with front- and rear-obstacle detection vs. Freestar's available rear-only system.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.9 |
Seats nicely padded, supportive in both 2nd and 3rd rows. Second-row buckets slide fore and aft a few inches, but leg room is limited for tall adults. Fold and tumble 2nd-row seats make 3rd-row access easier. Third row best suited to children and small adults. Rear-folding "tailgate" capability a fun feature.
CARGO ROOM
| SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 9 | 9.3 |
Lots of space even with all seats in place, thanks to deep floor well required to house folded 3rd row. Second-row seats remove or can tumble forward without the need to remove headrests. Third row folds easily into floor well. No excess of interior bins and pockets. Usefulness of center console between front seats undercut by intrusive parking-brake lever. Folding third-row seat exposes two metal sidewall brackets that intrude into cargo space.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.2 |
Freestar and Monterey can't match such rivals as Honda Odyssey or Dodge Caravan for driving enjoyment, or Toyota Sienna for refinement. On the upside, these revamped Ford and Mercury minivans boast some laudable safety and convenience features, base prices are competitive, and discounts should be available.
Total Score
| SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 59 | 58.8 |
Total Score: 59
Scores for all Minivans
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