2005 Ford Freestyle: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Ford launches its first crossover SUV for 2005, a wagon that seats up to seven. Freestyle comes in SE, SEL, and Limited trim levels, each with front-wheel drive or optional AWD. The AWD system does not include low-range gearing and is not intended for off-road use. The sole powertrain is a 203-hp 3.0-liter V6 linked to a continuously variable automatic transmission. A CVT provides variable drive ratios vs. a conventional automatic's preset ratios. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and traction control are standard. No antiskid system is available. SE and SEL come with 17-inch wheels, the Limited with 18s. An option package groups front torso side airbags and head-protecting curtain side airbags. The curtain airbags cover all three seating rows and are designed to deploy in rollovers as well as in side collisions. Standard seating is for six and includes a folding front-passenger seat, 2nd-row buckets, and a stowable 3rd row. An available 60/40 split folding 2nd-row bench increases capacity to seven. Options include power-adjustable pedals, rear DVD entertainment, sunroof, and rear obstacle detection. The Limited model comes with leather upholstery, rear center console, and 2nd-row buckets that slide fore and aft to adjust leg room. Freestyle shares its basic design and powertrains with the Five Hundred as well as Mercury's Montego sedan. All are based on a platform developed by Volvo, which is owned by Ford.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Larger than Compact SUVs, Midsize SUVs offer a mix of car- and truck-type construction, V6 and V8 power, and up to 8-passenger seating. This class also includes crossover vehicles.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, Ford Freestyle, Nissan Murano, and Toyota 4Runner.