freestyle05's Full Review: 2005 Ford Freestyle AWD
My wife and I bought our 2005 Freestyle Limited AWD new, as we were expecting our second child. We picked up almost all the options (I can't remember if nav was an option in 2005, but we don't have nav, regardless; also did not get the DVD player).
The engine/transmission (3.0L with CVT is only choice) provides decent acceleration. I was a little concerned that it would be underpowered, but it actually does fine. I've owned a 5.0L Mustang, a GMC Typhoon, and a BMW M3, so I have fairly high standards in terms of power. The Freestyle won't outrun a sports car, but it can get our of its own way.
Ride quality is great- independent rear suspension is a big step up from the live rear axle in our old Explorer.
Interior is good. I really like the memory function on the seats and pedals. I'm 6'2" and my wife is 5'2" but the Freestyle "knows" each of our keys and adjusts the driver's seat and brake/gas pedals to our presets. Very handy.
We got the 6 seat set up (with the center console in the second row). However, with car seats in both of the second row seats, it was a bear to get to the third row, so I removed the center console. Much easier to get to the third row now. I will note that, with a rear facing car seat in the second row on the passenger side, it pushes the front seat forward a lot. I can still sit in the front row, but it's not particularly comfortable. This will improve greatly when the seat gets turned around, and I can move the passenger seat back some more.
The third row is big enough to hold adults (even someone my size). The hardest part is getting in and out. The third row folds flat when not in use, which creates a large storage area. When the third row is up, there is still enough room to put a double stroller in the storage area, but that's about it. You can fold down one rear seat and leave the other up. This configuration allowed us to hold 3 adults, 2 kids, a double stroller and two large suitcases.
The keypad entry system that Ford uses on their doors is very handy. I'm surprised other manufacturers haven't adopted it. The universal garage door buttons built into the visor are also a nice touch. The backup sensors are nice as well.
Car has been reliable. It had a "hiccup" with the transmission that caused the car to drive funny, but it was cured by turning off the car and restarting it, and it hasn't reappeared.
I wish Ford would have put in an iPod connection on the stereo. I see some on ebay, but it will require me to pull apart the dash or pay someone to put it in. If they make the 3.5L/6 speed auto transmission an option, I would certainly consider it. That would make the Freestyle a pretty sporty SUV type car. I would also like some more room in the second row to accomodate a rear facing car seat. It would also be nice if the rear glass could be opened separate from the whole hatch. Having "backup sensors" on the front bumper would be handy.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 34000
Condition: New Model Year: 2005 Model and Options: Limited AWD
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