2005 Ford Freestar | Review | Buying Guide
Introduced last year, the 2005 Ford Freestar is Ford’s only remaining minivan. The Freestar is intended to be Ford’s minivan of the future; the most powerful, most flexible and highest-quality minivan to ever roll off their production line.
The Freestar has a bunch of new colors for 2005, features a new liftgate spoiler (on SES models), has Class I and II towing packages available and returns with accolades. With major safety innovations it achieved distinction as an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety “Best Pick”, mostly due to a comprehensive safety portfolio that includes Ford’s Safety Canopy, a side impact curtain airbag system.
Under the Hood
The base S model, plus SE and SES trims, come with a 3.9-liter V6 engine that delivers 193 horsepower at 4750 rpm and 248 lb-ft of torque at 3700 rpm. Teamed with this is Ford’s latest-generation 4-speed automatic transmission with improved shift quality and improved downshift response.
SEL and Limited models feature a powerful 4 .2-liter V6 that cranks 202 horsepower at 4250 rpm and the class-leading 267 lb-ft of torque at 3750 rpm. Both engines give Freestar an ultra-low emissions classification.
The new Freestar offers more safety and security features than any of its competition. All models have antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and a tire-inflation monitor, among other things. The Freestar continues with a safety orientation that includes Ford’s Safety Canopy rollover curtain airbag system, the addition of a reverse sensing system and self-sealing tires, among many other safety features.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
Two second-row bucket seats that flip and fold forward are standard. The third-row bench folds into the floor. In addition, the third-row bench also flips backward for rear-facing seating under the open liftgate when the vehicle is parked.
As noted, there are many 2005 Freestar models but the important thing to understand is that Ford has setout to raise the bar with the Freestar. These are luxurious minivans built with families in mind but not neglecting driving enthusiasts and adventurers who also want a towing-capable, performance-oriented vehicle. As such, the top-level Limited model features standards that include leather upholstery, power-adjustable pedals, tri-zone automatic climate controls, heated power mirrors with turn signals and power sliding rear doors.
Of course, a major list of options stand-alone and packages are available, including a rear-seat DVD entertainment system (all but the base S), a cargo management system and heated front seats (Limited only).
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