2005 Ford Freestyle in Southfield, MI - $3,990

Blending the aspirational looks of a sport utility vehicle with the versatility of a minivan and the confidence of an all-wheel drive sedan, the Ford Freestyle can carry up to seven adults in comfort. Introduced last year with safety as its hallmark, the Freestyle was designed to be the safest and most secure vehicle in the crossover class. Combining several active and passive safety systems, Ford expects the new Freestyle to exceed all current federal safety standards for front, side and rear impact performance.

Built at the automaker's Chicago Heights, Ill., manufacturing complex, the Freestyle shares much of its running gear and platform architecture with the Five Hundred sedan. Available in SE, SEL and Limited trim levels, the front-drive Freestyle is powered by a Duratec 30 3.0L V6, joined to a ZF-Batavia CVT (continuously variable transmission). All-wheel drive is optional, equipped with an electro-hydraulic Haldex unit based on the system used in the Volvo XC90.

On the road, the Freestyle delivers a smooth, assuring and capable performance -- the optional AWD system does not impede tight low speed maneuvers. The CVT gearbox transfers torque to the pavement strong and seamlessly -- fluid power is available to the driver across a broad powerband.

Starting with a robust body structure as the foundation, the Freestyle employs a four-wheel independent suspension system to assure confident ride and handling characteristics. The front suspension hardware consists of MacPherson struts with rearward-facing lower L-arms and stabilizer bar, while the rear suspension components include a multi-link coil-over-shock configuration with stabilizer bar.

Inside the cabin, Freestyle features an instrument panel that gives driver and passenger the look, feel and attitude of an off-road-ready SUV, complete with a robust grab handle on the passenger side. The flow-through center console houses the floor shifter, two ample cup holders and roomy center storage console. The front bucket seats have adjustable head restraints and are covered in fabric or optional leather surfaces.

With best-in-class legroom for the second and third rows, the Freestyle features reclining captain's chairs or a 60/40 split-fold seatback for added comfort. Upscale models offer second row optional seating on adjustable tracks to increase legroom. The third-row seating features fully functional, fold-in-floor seating which provides flexible cargo-carrying capacity. A raised greenhouse over the third row is combined with a well-packaged independent rear suspension to make the third row impressively comfortable for adults.

Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 112.9; overall length: 200.1; width: 74.9; height: 68.4 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 3.0L V6 -- 203 hp at 5,750 rpm and 207 lbs-ft of torque at 4,500 rpm.

Transmission: CVT automatic.

EPA fuel economy: 20 city/27 hwy., (FWD); 19 city/24 hwy., (AWD).

Cargo capacity: 84.2 cu. ft.

Towing capacity: 2,000 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, battery saver, remote keyless entry, SecuriLock passive anti-theft system and automatic power door locks. SEL adds fog lights and automatic headlamp control. SEL AWD adds traction control.

Optional safety features include the navigation system, power adjustable pedals, universal garage door opener, Safety Canopy System with roll-over sensor, front-seat mounted side-impact airbags and anti-theft perimeter alarm.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Powertrain: 3-year/36,000 mile.

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited.

Roadside assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2006 Ford Freestyle wagon starts from $25,105 for the SE FWD up to $30,580 for the Limited AWD. Destination charges add $700.

As tested

2006 Ford Freestyle SE AWD wagon

Exterior color: Titanium Green Metallic

Interior color: Shale

Tire make/model: Continental ContiTouringContact

Tire size: P215/65R17

Base price: $26,955

Destination charge $ 700

Convenience Group pkg. $ 295

Total as tested $27,950

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