Automotive
Ford launched the Freestar MPV perfectly timed for families, allowing children to enjoy “Finding Nemo” from the back seats of this three-row vehicle.
Designed to succeed the second-generation Ford Windstar, the Freestar aimed to overcome the reliability issues that plagued the 2000 model. Despite being built on the previous generation’s platform, Ford expected improved performance from the heavily revised vehicle.
Externally, the Freestar retained its rounded silhouette but featured enlarged headlights and a more prominent grille. Its sloping hood aligned closely with the windshield. Following the design of its predecessor, Ford equipped the vehicle with sliding rear windows for both the middle and rear seating rows. The MPV’s rear end showcased a gently sloping, rounded tailgate that blended seamlessly with the vehicle’s profile. The tall and wide tailgate design incorporated a section of the rear bumper, facilitating a lower loading height.
True to its purpose as a family-oriented minivan for school runs and weekend trips, the Freestar boasted a spacious interior with seating for up to seven occupants. For enhanced comfort, the middle row offered an optional captain’s chairs configuration. The cabin featured an automotive-style dashboard with a broad, flat center console housing the audio system and climate control unit for the driver’s convenience. Conveniently located at the lower end were a storage basket and dual cup holders for the parents.
Under the hood, the Freestar was available with two new engine options. The base model came with a 3.9-liter V6 engine, while the top-spec variant featured a 4.2-liter engine. Both powertrains were paired with a standard 4-speed automatic transmission.
