Ultimate Guide to the Ford Freestar Minivan

The Ford Freestar minivan is a reliable family vehicle with spacious seating, versatile interior features, and essential safety options. Although its performance and fuel economy are modest, it offers comfort and practicality with options for customization. A suitable choice for those seeking a dependable van, it combines traditional features with modern safety and convenience features, making it ideal for both family trips and commercial use.

The Ford Freestar stands out as a reliable minivan with contemporary engineering and safety advancements. Its roomy interior comfortably seats seven passengers and features flexible fold-down seats in the third row, perfect for hauling sizable luggage. Suitable for both family outings and commercial purposes, the Freestar offers solid performance despite facing increased competition from newer models over recent years.
About Ford

Established in 1903 by Henry Ford and partners, Ford Motor Company is a leading American automaker. By 2015, it ranked fifth worldwide in vehicle manufacturing and second within the United States.
In 2018, the company's revenue reached $156.7 billion, and it regained profitability, securing a position on the Fortune 500 list.

Engine Options and Driving Experience

The Freestar is equipped with two engine choices: a 3.9-liter V6 delivering 193 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, and a 4.2-liter V6 available on higher trims, producing 201 horsepower and 263 lb-ft torque. While effective for city travel, their performance may decline on highways. Both engines tend to be noisier than similar V6 options, leading to a less refined driving experience. Fuel efficiency falls below average, with ratings of 18/24 mpg (city/highway) for the base model and slightly lower for premium trims.

Interior Design and Comfort

The Freestar features a stylish dashboard, steering wheel, and quality materials inside. However, second-row legroom can be somewhat tight, and removing seats for cargo space isn't particularly easy. The third-row seats can fold flat in a single piece and can be flipped to serve as a tailgate bench—ideal for stadium visits. Cargo volume measures 135.7 cubic feet, which is modest compared to competitors.

Entertainment and Climate Control

Audio and climate controls are straightforward and easy to operate, with manual systems that are effective. An optional electronic climate control system allows for separate temperature settings for the driver, passenger, and rear seats, improving comfort, especially during hot days with available rear A/C.

Safety and Security Features

The Freestar comes standard with anti-lock brakes, electronic brakeforce distribution, braking assist, stability control, and tire-pressure monitoring. Front side airbags are included; however, full curtain airbags are not available. Additional safety options like self-sealing tires, reverse parking sensors, and power-adjustable pedals with memory can be added for extra safety and convenience.

Trim Options

The minivan, seating seven, is offered in SE, SEL, and Limited trims. The base SE includes 16-inch steel wheels, privacy glass, power accessories, climate control, a second-row bench, CD player, cruise control, and keyless entry. The SEL adds leather-wrapped steering, alloy wheels, tri-zone climate control, and second-row captain's chairs. The top-tier Limited trim features leather seats, wood accents, upgraded audio, chrome wheels, heated mirrors, power sliding doors, a trip computer, and other premium amenities.