Driving Impressions

Two engines are available in the Freestar. The 3.9-liter V6 that comes standard on the SE generates 193 horsepower and 245 pound-feet of torque and gets an EPA-rated 18/23 mpg City/highway. The 4.2-liter V6 that comes with the SEL and Limited delivers 201 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, yet surrenders only 1 mpg to the smaller engine. Freestar's larger 4.2-liter V6 is the largest in any minivan, and is likely the better choice for highway cruising, passing on freeways, and light towing. The Freestar's torque (the force you need for merging on the freeway or climbing steep grades) is competitive with both engines when compared with the 242 pound-feet of torque from the Toyota Sienna and the Nissan Quest. However neither Ford engine matches the Nissan's 240 horsepower nor the Toyota's 230 horsepower. So the Freestar engine won't be as responsive at higher speeds. The four-speed automatic transmission that comes in all Freestar models shifts smoothly and quickly. The Freestar is extremely quiet, incorporating thick front windows, a noise-absorbing dash panel, and sound-blocking construction. Nevertheless, the overhead-valve engine sounds truck-like under hard acceleration, making it seem a little less refined than some of the competition. The Freestar's ride is smooth, and can handle even poorly-maintained highways. Steering is much more responsive than in the old Windstar. It leans a bit in corners, but handling is predictable. Big four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and EBD are standard, and the brakes are easy to modulate for nice, smooth stops.

Final Word

The Ford Freestar is a solid minivan available with the latest in safety equipment and engineering. It's big and powerful, much improved over the old Windstar. It doesn't offer all the bells and whistles (like all-wheel drive and navigation) nor does it feel as refined as some of the competition, but it's a solid performer. NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Michelle Krebs filed the original report, with editor Mitch McCullough reporting from Los Angeles.