2006 Ford Freestar: Minivan offered safe, secure transportation

Cars

By Ken Chester Jr., Motor News Media Corporation

Last update: April 29, 2009 - 11:17 AM

In 2006, Ford was still commited to the minivan segment of the American automotive marketplace with its 2006 Freestar minivan. As an all-new entry when it replaced the Windstar minivan several model years ago, the Freestar added to Ford's legacy of safety leadership, earning a "Best Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety that year. However, the Freestar eventually would be discontinued after 2007.

Offered in 2006 in one wheelbase in front-wheel drive or AdvanceTrac all-wheel-drive configurations, the minivan was powered by a 3.9L V-6 or 4.2L V-6 engine. Torque was transferred for both motors via a four-speed electronic automatic transmission.

The Freestar had a robust hydroformed subframe for consistency and tight tolerances. Using hydraulic pressure at 17,400 pounds per square inch, hydroforming ensures precise frame wall thickness that resists bending or twisting. The frame serves as the foundation for the suspension hardware. The front suspension uses an independent MacPherson strut configuration, featuring "reverse L" lower control arms, liquid-filled lower control arm bushing and shear-style subframe mounts. In the rear, a twist-beam axle provides a controlled response to road irregularities.

Inside this cabin, you would find excellent ergonomics. The dashboard was a masterpiece of ease and simplicity. Clean, modern and convenient displays and controls were intuitive to the driver, who enjoyed an uncluttered outward view. There were plenty of nooks, crannies and storage for a family - even the dashboard featured a storage bin in the center on top.

For 2006, Freestar featured redesigned front door panels and interior trim changes. Added to the standard equipment roster were speed control, CD player, roof rails, tire-pressure monitor, premium interior lighting with "sleeping baby" mode, upgraded rear seats and privacy glass.

Dual manual sliding side doors were standard. A low step in height made the driver's seat the place to be for motorists of all sizes. The second row of seating was versatile. The seats could be adjusted fore and aft in order to facilitate a small child or to allow additional cargo space without manipulating the seats. When more space was required, the second row seats could be flipped and folded, allowing families to configure space according to need.

The Freestar boasted a third-row seat that could be folded in half for more cargo space or folded and stored into a well in the cargo floor for a flat floor without removing the seat.

Models:

SE, SEL, Limited

EPA fuel economy:

City: 18, Highway: 24

Kelley Blue Book:

$6,600 to $9,700

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