2006 Ford Freestyle: Road Test
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2006 Ford Freestyle ▼
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- MSRP: $25,105 -$30,580
- Invoice: $23,159 -$28,087
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Our road test for the 2006 Ford Freestyle includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Ford Freestyle from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Ford Freestyle, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Ford Freestyle help you decide if a 2006 Ford Freestyle is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD SE | AWD SEL | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Sluggish on takeoff but adequate thereafter, helped by liberal use of the throttle pedal. Test AWD Limited did 8.7 sec 0-60 mph. Smooth CVT provides good passing response. Unlike conventional automatic transmissions, CVTs allow engine speed to race ahead of road speed in rapid acceleration, then fall back when it finds the optimum ratio. Towing capacity is 2000 lb.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2WD SE | AWD SEL | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 3.8 |
Quite good for the size and weight. Test AWD SEL averaged 19.7 mpg in a city/highway driving mix. Test AWD Limited logged 18.7, including gas-eating performance runs. Ford recommends regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD SE | AWD SEL | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
Generally composed, absorbent, though sharp bumps can jolt. Little difference in ride quality between 2WD and AWD or with 17- vs. 18-inch tires.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD SE | AWD SEL | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.1 |
Generally carlike, but suspension tuning, high-profile build mean a bit more cornering lean. Tight turning circle, but Freestyle can seem quite large in close quarters. Steering effort light at parking pace, firms up nicely with speed. Good brake pedal feel, stopping power.
QUIETNESS
| 2WD SE | AWD SEL | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 5.2 |
On par overall with other car-type SUVs--and better than most truck-style SUVs--with moderate highway wind and road noise. Engine, however, roars loudly during even moderate acceleration.
CONTROLS
| 2WD SE | AWD SEL | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
Gauges simple, clear, well-placed. Ditto most controls, though climate panel mounts too low for safest use while driving. SEL and Limited include look-alike steering wheel switches for cruise control and some audio functions that take learning. Cabin has upscale air but few padded surfaces; most panels are hard plastic, though attractively textured.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD SE | AWD SEL | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.7 |
Generous head room. Only tallest drivers will want more leg room. Low cowl, tall windows, standard height-adjustable seat provide commanding position. Easy ingress/egress. Comfortable seats. Visibility hindered to rear corners by thick roof pillars, but headrests don't interfere unless raised.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD SE | AWD SEL | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8 | 6.2 |
Rear doors afford easy entry/exit for roomy 2nd row with comfortable chair-height seats. Limited's fore/aft sliding buckets allow favoring leg space or cargo room behind. All 2nd-row seats fold and tumble for good access to 3rd row, which is surprisingly spacious for adults, though cushion too low for long-distance comfort.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD SE | AWD SEL | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9 | 8.3 |
All rear seats fold flat. Load deck stretches to 9.5-ft with right-front seatback dropped, too. The 3rd-row seat converts more easily than most, disappears into floorwell that provides handy storage otherwise. Console and dashtop bins swallow lots of small stuff.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2WD SE | AWD SEL | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 7 | 5.7 |
This Recommended choice excels as a family wagon. It leaves off-roading and serious towing to truck-type SUVs, providing instead utility, space, and comfort that match any rival--and some minivans. More power would be welcome, particularly when loaded with people and luggage. But ride and handling are agreeable, as are prices.
Total Score
| 2WD SE | AWD SEL | AWD Limited | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 64 | 66 | 65 | 56.7 |
Total Score: 65
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