2004 Ford Freestar

Most importantly—given the minivan's primary role of comfortably and conveniently transporting people and cargo—the Freestar's second- and third-row seating is about as flexible as any on the market. A new standard counter-balanced Tailgate Bench Seat stows easily and neatly into a deep bin for a completely flat floor (with no need to remove its headrests), or flips over to face rearward for picnics or tailgate events.


The second-row bench tips and slides along its rails, while available dual captain's chairs (standard on SEL and Limited) fold and tumble like those in Ford's Explorer and Expedition SUVs. Both configurations easily move out of the way with one hand for third-row access and are nearly as easily removed to provide more than 134 cu.-ft. of cargo volume.


Freestar's standard 3.9L V-6—quieter, more refined and more efficient than the 3.8-liter it replaces—provides a respectable 193 hp and 245 lb.-ft. of torque. A new optional 4.2L V-6 (the largest engine in a U.S.-market minivan) offers 201 hp and a class-leading 263 lb.-ft. of twist. Both earn ULEV (Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle) ratings and should deliver 500 miles on a 26-gallon tank (with 17/23 and 16/22 (preliminary) EPA city/highway fuel efficiency, respectively).

A new optional 4.2L V-6 (the largest engine in a U.S.-market minivan) offers 201 hp and a class-leading 263 lb.-ft. of twist.

A new MacPherson strut front suspension with liquid-filled rear control arm bushings, a new twist-beam rear axle with Panhard rod and precise power rack-and-pinion steering combine for nimble, responsive handling and surprisingly supple ride—as good as any minivan we've encountered. Standard 4-wheel discs (upsized from Windstar's) with ABS and electronic brake force distribution improve fade resistance, stopping distances, pedal feel and response.


Available (and highly recommended) AdvanceTrac, further developed and improved for 2004, selectively applies braking and (if necessary) adjusts engine power to stabilize the vehicle if it senses oversteer or understeer. The system also includes a panic brake assist feature that applies full braking faster than most drivers are able to when it detects emergency braking.