2007 Ford Freestyle Review
The Freestyle is a midsize crossover SUV from Ford introduced in 2005. The Freestyle is a mix between an SUV, minivan, and a sedan. Odd mix it may be, but it can still comfortably carry seven passengers with its three-row seating.
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Ford Freestyle is perhaps the only real crossover in the narrowest definition of the term. Though a strange mix between classes, the Freestyle manages to haul a lot of people while still being quite fuel efficient. What mars this otherwise excellent vehicle are its reliability record and lack of stability control. Until Ford works on these issues, we have a hard time recommending it.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Freestyle only 2 out of 5 stars for initial reliability. Problems that have plagued the Freestyle include brake noise, cold-starting issues, nonfunctional heated seats, suspension noise, and water leaks. The Freestyle was recalled once in 2005 for breaking fuel tank straps that could cause the fuel tank to fall off. Expect below average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
Fortunately, the Freestyle is safer than it is reliable. It earned perfect scores in both government and IIHS crash tests. Anti-lock brakes, full side airbags, a rollover sensor, and traction control come standard. Parking sensors and adjustable pedals are optional. Stability control is unavailable.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Three-row seating
+ Good gas mileage
+ Good safety ratings
Cons
- No stability control
- Poor reliability
- Pricey
Head-To-Head Competition:
There are a number of suitable alternatives to the Freestyle. The Chevrolet Equinox LT3 costs $600 less and adds traction control, AWD, and OnStar, but it lacks the Freestyle’s CD changer and roof rack. The 2008 Mazda Tribute Grand Touring costs $3,000 less, and also has traction control, AWD, and a moonroof, though it loses out on gas mileage and the roof rack. The excellent (Subaru Forester) XT Limited costs $1,300 less, and has 21 more horsepower, AWD, and a moonroof. However, it doesn’t have an automatic, and it’s only a four-cylinder.
What Others Are Saying:
“If I call a vehicle homogenized and pasteurized does that mean that I don’t like it, or think it’s not good? No, quite the contrary: I think the Freestyle is a very, very nice car, er wagon, ah, I mean minivan or sport utility vehicle. Wait, wait, wait, that also sounds like I don’t like it, but I do. Really, I do.” – The Auto Channel
“Also like the Volvo, the Freestyle isn’t exactly overpowered, as the same 203-horsepower, 3.0-liter V-6 featured in the Five Hundred does business here. It’s overmatched by both the 4112-pound AWD Freestyle and the 3959-pound fwd version. The standard CVT helps improve response and delivers about 27 mpg on the highway for the 2wd version. The Freestyle doesn’t feel as sluggish as the XC90, but it has the Volvo’s characteristic road rumble from the tires and some harshness over bumps.” – Automobile Magazine
“The Ford Freestyle is a good car marred by bad planning and packaging. You can’t call it a crossover SUV; it’s not versatile enough. You can’t call it a minivan; it’s not practical or roomy enough. It’s closest to a station wagon, though even that’s a questionable call what with the oddly-shaped cargo area and smallish second- and third-row seats.” – About.com
Read more about the 2007 Ford Freestyle at the Ford manufacturer web site.
