"Unfortunately, as with the Saturn Outlook we drove recently, the Acadia's 6T70 six-speed automatic can be slow to downshift. This is the same automatic used in Ford's Edge (as part of a Ford-GM joint development project), and in each of these applications we wanted more responsive downshifts, as well as more gear lever positions to choose from. (You only get "D" and "L.") The conservative programming of the transmission likely bumps fuel mileage on the EPA's test loop, and the Acadia's rather impressive 17/24 mileage rating in all-wheel-drive form (18/26 in front-wheel drive) suggests the tranny's programming is effective for that purpose.
We tried using the "L" shift-lever position, in conjunction with the "+/-" button on the side of the shift lever, to improve drivetrain performance. Under these circumstances the Acadia felt capable and willing, but reaching down to the shift lever shouldn't be required for each gear swap. Steering-wheel-mounted buttons or paddles would go a long way here."
The new 6 speed is very smooth on down shifts because it does skip gears & goes to the correct ratio for the amount of accel. desired. There is also no shift shock during the downshift, there is torque management software that will only apply full engine power after the shift has occured, this all happens in milliseconds as to be seamless to the driver. Also the trans is a joint venture only as far as the architecture not in the programing or in some of the internal hardware.
on the forums main page there is an ad for the 'acadia' on the right side. the silver one looks just like a freestyle to me, except for the grille. :confuse:
That was only one article I posted on the 6spd. Seems like more a software problem than transmission one. Funny thing is that today the newer transmission are shifting based on a computer program, so like any software, when the manufacture makes a software update to improve the transmission, then you'll need to go into the dealer to get the update, but then you never really know that you need an update or that there is an update.
It would be nice if there was a way you could go to the Ford homepage, enter your VIN, and be able to download the software yourself into the car (via a long USB cable). That way we'd be sure to have the latest software updates for the engine, transmission, etc.
While the Acadia is a bit bigger than the Freestyle (4 inches wider), it is roughly in the same CUV market. Next year the Freestyle gets the more powerful engine (less MPG, though), quieting critics that don't think 208 ft-lbs in the current 3.0L is enough. The Freestyle may need to get some of the Acadia features, like sliding rear seats, an ad campaign like Acadia's, etc.
"The Freestyle may need to get some of the Acadia features, like sliding rear seats, an ad campaign like Acadia's, etc."
I am told that the second row captain's chairs do slide. Unfortunately there wasn't one FS on the lot here in SoCal that didn't have second row bench seats.
a maxed out freestyle lists for 36-37k. i think the acadia could be quite a bit higher than that. not even picking every option, i got a saturn outlook over 42k.
Having owned a 2005 Limited for over a year and a half here are my comments on the subject:
Things I like:
1) The overall interior packaging (how the seats fold) and general space is very good - I would not change the general layout.
Changes I would do (in no particular order):
1) Option of HIDs - the current ford lights are pathetic. 2) Higher quality dash materials with soft feel surfaces. While I do not mind the overall look, the dash is beginning to look dated compared to some of the newer GM lambda offerings. Also my car is just not that well screwed together - too many rattles. 3) Motorized rear tail-gate lift. 4) Back up camera 5) A modular second row center console so that it can be removed and inserted at will. I have removed mine (unscrew four bolts) to add access to the third row as we have child seats in the second row, but this currently leaves an ugly metal bracket behind. 6) More sound insulation. 7) The 3.5l engine. 8) While the CVT is okay and I do not mind keeping it, I would like the option of having a sport mode that would simulate a 6 speed manual box and have a manual shift option via steering wheel buttons or paddles (paddles preferably) similar to what Nissan is doing. The shift options should be Economy (full CVT) - Sport (auto like 6 speed) - Manual (manual shift 6 speed). 8) A better quality leather option (there is too much vinyl in the current leather seats). 9) Improved night-time illumination of center dash/console while driving - mood lighting ala VW/Audi. 10) Much improved exterior styling and no I am not keen on Ford's new three bar grill. 11) I would like them to lose the "Stadium Seating" feature of the car. While nice in concept, and probably okay for children, when I sit in the back I feel like I am looking into the roof of the front of the car. I'm too tall. The Stadium seating would work if they raised the roof line of the front of the car so that the rear passengers can actually see out the front. Also this would eliminate the "step-up" in the roof line of the car than can make the Freestyle look awkward in its side profile. 12) Dual screen in the back of the head-restraint DVD option - not in the roof. 13) Adjustable head restraints for tilt - not just up and down. My wife complains the the head restraints push her head too far forward as she can not push them back. 14) Lose the bolt on body cladding. It looks so 80s. The two tone versions remind me of Kitt on Knightrider . Bend the body metal into wheel arch flares instead of using plastic. One would think that this would save cost as well. After all you only have to bend the metal once - rather than also mold some plastic and then have the extra cost of paint and assembly. 15) I have the remote starter and it is great. It could be even greater if the starter fob communicated with the car and let you know that the car had started when you are still a 1/4 mile for the car. 16) Talking about the remote starter I would like the seat heaters to be on a dial as opposed to a toggle button (like my Audi A4). If you start the car on a chilly 0F morning, the seats do not heat up as you have not pressed the seat heater button (before you get in the car), but with a dial you could leave the seat heat setting on "warm" the night before so they come on when you start the car up remotely in the morning. 17) While having a Aux in connector on the audio, I would also like proper iPod integration so that you can control the iPod via the audio, have full menu support and standard functions via the Audio screen. If this meant upgrading to a Nav system to get the screen for these functions that would be acceptable.
Well that is my laundry list of improvements I would like to see. Will it happen? Doubt it!
The current Freestyle was the first Ford I have ever considered and bought. In 2005 when were bought it was simply best crossover (for pretty much any money) that suited our needs. Were we thrilled with everything in the Ford? No. But the utility of the car was great and I still think it is great today. However the competition has caught up and if I were to buy again now, odds are I would get either a Saturn Outlook or the GMC Acadia. Both cars have style, even better room and a nicer interior (though still not perfect).
Why I think Ford will not offer a backup camera: The problem I see with a backup camera is that it is 2 easy for a customer to stare at the screen and therefore not be aware of vehicles, objects, bikes, people who are to the side of the camera view but moving toward the back of the vehicle.
With the back up sensors, you still have to look around and be aware of your surroundings.
I think Ford might be worried about liability from people that get run over by some maroon who only looked at the screen.
Nissan has already told us that under no circumstances should we refer to the backup camera in the Quest and Murano as a "safety feature" it is strickly a convenience feature.
my focus has heated seats, which turn off automatically after a while. unless you turn them off manually before they time out, they go 'on' the next time you start the car. i noticed this because my kids like them on, and when i go to work in the morning, sometimes the passenger seat heater goes on, although i am the only one in the car. i don't know if the freestlye works the same way.
Unfortunately the Freestyle's heated seats are a push button. Push one for *** heat, again for ** heat, again for * heat and again to switch them off.
Yes that will switch themselves off after a certain period of time. Alas they will not auto switch on using the remote start.
Still it could be worse. I can at least run out and switch them on, but in my mother-in-laws Cadillac the heated seats will no even switch on unless they detect that someone is sitting in the seat. So much for technology eh?
$50k? Outside my price range! But $40k? Possible. I would take a restyled upgraded Mercury that was given a bias towards sporty - rather than mainstream Ford, or a proper 6 seater Lincoln crossover for Luxury.
Look the the pricing of the new Buick Enclave. That will start in the mid high $30s but with options will probably get into mid/high $40s. Still it looks a lot of car for the money but I'm too young for a Buick so GMC Acadia it probably will be....
sounds to me like the remote starter is the problem. it should have been linked to include the seat heaters. my seat heaters are a button, too. push it on, it may time out, but it goes on the next time the car is started. i don't know if the seat heaters in the other vehicles work the same way.
You're right! Mine has two heats as well as the off. Guess I got carried away there.
Now my Audi has 6 heat positions (actually as its a dial its infinite from 0 to 6) where 6 seems hot enough tp fry a egg in 60 seconds (good to get the seat warm and toasty in about 2 minutes on the -0F days) to 1 which is good to keep your bum warm nice and warm on a decent commute. I wish the Freestyle's heated seats were as good as an Audi's then then it was cost $50K.....
I was talking about a two way remote start so that the car could communicate back to me. Well blow me! I just discovered today the GMC is introducing such a device for their cars and trucks.
That Acadia is sounding more tempting each time I look at it as a replacement for my aging Audi. I won't get rid of the Freestyle as it is still decent enough but considering all the crap that GM got last year, when I see the products they are introducing now, GM definitely is on the up. Whereas Ford unfortunately still does not have a clue. Regrettably I see nothing in Ford's pipeline to make me want to buy any of their upcoming models. GM yes, Ford No..
When the '08 Freestyle is unveiled next month, I sure hope it has a less "plasticky" interior, especially the dashboard. Soft-touch materials would make the interior more upscale.
too bad it can't see if your heated seats are on, or your defroster! maybe version 2.0 will be better. i do like the idea but i think i would like it tied to my phone or something like that instead of that fob.
The Acadia is a very good vehicle, but it weighs too much: over 4700 in the FWD version, and over 5000 in the AWD version. That very good 3.6 will be working very hard.
Unfortunately like the Freestyle, the GM dealer confirmed that the heated seats do not start with the remote starter as it uses a toggle switch just like the Freestyle.
But the V8 Denali should overcome the weight penalty. Then again a V8 Denali would be in a totally different league than the Freestyle so it is no comparison.
It is a shame though that these vehicles are getting heavier and heavier, but I guess that use of lighter weight materials such as aluminum would make the car way too expensive for its chosen market.
too bad it can't see if your heated seats are on, or your defroster! maybe version 2.0 will be better. i do like the idea but i think i would like it tied to my phone or something like that instead of that fob.
Do you really need your eyes to tell you if your heated seat is on? Are your pants that thick?
Do you really need your eyes to tell you if your heated seat is on? Are your pants that thick?
We're talking about remote start capabilities. It would be nice to know your seats are heating in your remotely started car when you are having your morning coffee at 6am and it is -5F and pitch black before leaving the house and driving to work...
When the '08 Freestyle is unveiled next month, I sure hope it has a less "plasticky" interior, especially the dashboard. Soft-touch materials would make the interior more upscale.
Do you know that the 08 will be unveiled for certain at Chicago, as the Freestyle is not listed as being a production debut a Chicago, whereas the 08 Five Hundred is. The Freestyle is lumped in with the usual production cars.
At this time, it does not look like Ford will show it. Perhaps they are waiting for New York?
For about the same price as a Freestyle, the Mitsubishi Outlander out-features it. Here are some things Outlander has that Freestyle SHOULD have: 1. Aluminum roof -- lowers the center of gravity. 2. Selectable 2WD/AWD/locked -- Allows the driver to keep it in 2WD in the summer-time and clear weather, which is 99% of the time, preventing MPG losses from AWD. 3. Outlander's 3.0L engine: variable valve timing 4. Stability control -- also known as "anti-skid". Why can't Ford blow away the competition with these features, as I love my Freestyle already, but it could be a world-beater with a few quality goodies.
The Outlander has an aluminum roof, lowering the overall center of gravity, improving handling & braking, while the Outlander is about the same price as a Freestyle. Therefore, use of more efficient aluminum doesn't necessarily mean excessive cost. Even my Ford F150 1/2-ton pickup has an aluminum hood, at least.
"For about the same price as a Freestyle, the Mitsubishi Outlander out-features it. "
One should note that the FreeStyle AWD does not need to be selected - it engages when needed (even in the summer during unexpected events like gravel). Which system is preferable is a decision that each buyer needs to make.
The Outlander has not been rated for rollover since 2002, when it got two stars. I don't know why the newer models have not been tested. The Freestyle gets 4 stars - it is not top heavy at all, and I don't think it particularly needs stability control.
The push button 4WD is so 90's. I have owned two and vowed never to buy another as I was always going from 2WD on the freeways to 4WD on the offramps, sidestreets etc where I live. In fact, before I got my Freestyle I looked at 4Runner and was very surprised that push button was still the norm (other than 8cyl version). Maybe if the default 2WD was the front wheels then I would consider.
Aluminim roof - I dunno - how it handle rollovers or hail? Just had my FS roof replaced due to hail - whats cost of an aluminum roof?
mschmal, In considering possible new Freestyle features, are you confusing the Land Rover Freelander with the Mitsu Outlander? Or maybe an earlier model year Outlander? The 2007 Outlander has a 6-speed auto and an electronic-clutch AWD system.
Others might be confused about the selectable 2WDonly/AWD/locked feature, too, as its 2WD setting is merely there for greater fuel economy, a feature the FreestyleAWD needs. Otherwise, people can select an automatic AWD for everyday driving, and the locked feature for getting out of a ditch or other slow-speed up-hill rare needs.
And, those wondering about the value of an aluminum roof and stability control (in any kind of vehicle) should understand that any car/SUV/CUV can skid, and any can benefit (handling) from a lower center of gravity which the lighter, but equal strength, aluminum provides. Maybe the point here is that the aluminum roof is more structurally efficient, meaning it is just as strong as an all-steel roof but lighter in mass, a good thing.
"2WDonly/AWD/locked feature, too, as its 2WD setting is merely there for greater fuel economy, a feature the FreestyleAWD needs. "
Nope, the Freestyle already has the greater fuel economy offered by it's FWD / AWD only when needed system. It runs in FWD almost all the time... In my opinion, having the capability to turn off the AWD is dumb. What if the car suddenly hits a spot that needs AWD? Sounds more like marketing than a smart idea.
OK, so it is all right a design to be dumb, I suppose... but I don't see the point of hauling all that AWD weight around only to force the transmission into FWD. :surprise:
Selectable 2WD/AWD/locked -- Allows the driver to keep it in 2WD in the summer-time and clear weather, which is 99% of the time, preventing MPG losses from AWD.
The Freestyle DOES run in 2WD most of the time . . . in fact, ALL of the time until the system decides that the rear wheels need to have some torque applied to them.
Wrong, barnstormer64 and stevedebi, as the Freestyle AWD system is delivering about 10% of its torque to the rear wheels when its not needed (Haldex). Volvo's XC70 does this, too. Its the reason the AWD Outlander gets better MPG on the highway than the AWD Freestyle (26 vs. 24 MPG). Facts are great, aren't they?
While the 10% engagement is probably true, the bulk of the fuel economy loss is probably caused by the added weight of the AWD system and the change in gear ratios between the AWD and FWD versions of the Freebie. The engagement of the system has little effect since most of the parts are always turning anyway.
"Wrong, barnstormer64 and stevedebi, as the Freestyle AWD system is delivering about 10% of its torque to the rear wheels when its not needed (Haldex). Volvo's XC70 does this, too. Its the reason the AWD Outlander gets better MPG on the highway than the AWD Freestyle (26 vs. 24 MPG). Facts are great, aren't they?"
Yes, facts are great. Could you please provide a URL that references the Freestyle AWD and includes this 10% figure? My own research indicates that power is not routed unless needed. The MPG hit is partially explained by the additional weight of the AWD hardware.
However, even with the 10% (pending documentation), I think that the Ford AWD system is better, and see no point in hauling the AWD hardware around in 2WD mode.
In any case, I just checked the Specs on the two vehicles. The Freestyle AWD is about 450 lbs heavier than the outlander, and has about 20 more Cu Ft behind the 2nd row, and 9 more Cu Ft behind the third row. It also has advantages in 2nd row legroom, and a much larger gas tank. You can actually get 400 miles on a tank in the Freestyle, but I don't think the Outlander could match that.
Considering the weight alone, I'm surprised that the difference in MPG isn't greater.
The Outlander has advantages in towing capability, turning radius, and HP.
It would appear that the Outlander is quite a bit smaller (by about 20 inches) on the outside, shorter wheelbase.
" In normal driving, the vehicle uses front-wheel-drive, but the driveshaft also turns whenever the vehicle is moving, ready to supply power to the rear wheels at a moment’s notice."
"Whenever the driveshaft spins faster than the rear wheels – indicating front-wheel slippage – it builds hydraulic pressure inside the Haldex coupler, engaging clutch plates that quickly pull power to the rear wheels."
Haldex's own website www.haldex.com has meatier technical information (in contrast to the "AWD Club" consumer-lite notes you cited). In there, you'll see what I had a Ford tech tell me at the dealership when I bought my Freestyle: The technician put an AWD on a lift about 1 inch above the ground, the tires not touching the ground. He then noticed the rear wheels were moving when the front wheels were also moving, and he couldn't stop the rear wheels with his hands, so there was some torque applied. This direct experiment lines up with the Haldex website's statement that the ECU (vehicle's engine computer) can control the non-slip threshold pressure in the wet-clutch pack. This also makes sense since you don't want the rear wheels back-driving the differential, and you don't want the clutch pack to routinely slip loosely/slightly in normal driving, using pretension to engage higher torque levels with less noise and vibration. In summary, there is some energy wasted when using a rear diff and wet clutch pack with this system, and thats why the MPG drops. The extra weight alone of the Haldex system is not enough by itself to lower MPG more than about 0.2 MPG, its the internal friction that saps MPG more.
Comments
"Unfortunately, as with the Saturn Outlook we drove recently, the Acadia's 6T70 six-speed automatic can be slow to downshift. This is the same automatic used in Ford's Edge (as part of a Ford-GM joint development project), and in each of these applications we wanted more responsive downshifts, as well as more gear lever positions to choose from. (You only get "D" and "L.") The conservative programming of the transmission likely bumps fuel mileage on the EPA's test loop, and the Acadia's rather impressive 17/24 mileage rating in all-wheel-drive form (18/26 in front-wheel drive) suggests the tranny's programming is effective for that purpose.
We tried using the "L" shift-lever position, in conjunction with the "+/-" button on the side of the shift lever, to improve drivetrain performance. Under these circumstances the Acadia felt capable and willing, but reaching down to the shift lever shouldn't be required for each gear swap. Steering-wheel-mounted buttons or paddles would go a long way here."
(Yep, that's paint).
That's those "pauses" in automatics that I just can't stand.
That sounds "jarring" to me.
It would be nice if there was a way you could go to the Ford homepage, enter your VIN, and be able to download the software yourself into the car (via a long USB cable). That way we'd be sure to have the latest software updates for the engine, transmission, etc.
The 6 speed in the Acardia is not the exact same in every respect as the one in the MKX/Edge.
Mark
I am told that the second row captain's chairs do slide. Unfortunately there wasn't one FS on the lot here in SoCal that didn't have second row bench seats.
Things I like:
1) The overall interior packaging (how the seats fold) and general space is very good - I would not change the general layout.
Changes I would do (in no particular order):
1) Option of HIDs - the current ford lights are pathetic.
2) Higher quality dash materials with soft feel surfaces. While I do not mind the overall look, the dash is beginning to look dated compared to some of the newer GM lambda offerings. Also my car is just not that well screwed together - too many rattles.
3) Motorized rear tail-gate lift.
4) Back up camera
5) A modular second row center console so that it can be removed and inserted at will. I have removed mine (unscrew four bolts) to add access to the third row as we have child seats in the second row, but this currently leaves an ugly metal bracket behind.
6) More sound insulation.
7) The 3.5l engine.
8) While the CVT is okay and I do not mind keeping it, I would like the option of having a sport mode that would simulate a 6 speed manual box and have a manual shift option via steering wheel buttons or paddles (paddles preferably) similar to what Nissan is doing. The shift options should be Economy (full CVT) - Sport (auto like 6 speed) - Manual (manual shift 6 speed).
8) A better quality leather option (there is too much vinyl in the current leather seats).
9) Improved night-time illumination of center dash/console while driving - mood lighting ala VW/Audi.
10) Much improved exterior styling and no I am not keen on Ford's new three bar grill.
11) I would like them to lose the "Stadium Seating" feature of the car. While nice in concept, and probably okay for children, when I sit in the back I feel like I am looking into the roof of the front of the car. I'm too tall. The Stadium seating would work if they raised the roof line of the front of the car so that the rear passengers can actually see out the front. Also this would eliminate the "step-up" in the roof line of the car than can make the Freestyle look awkward in its side profile.
12) Dual screen in the back of the head-restraint DVD option - not in the roof.
13) Adjustable head restraints for tilt - not just up and down. My wife complains the the head restraints push her head too far forward as she can not push them back.
14) Lose the bolt on body cladding. It looks so 80s. The two tone versions remind me of Kitt on Knightrider
15) I have the remote starter and it is great. It could be even greater if the starter fob communicated with the car and let you know that the car had started when you are still a 1/4 mile for the car.
16) Talking about the remote starter I would like the seat heaters to be on a dial as opposed to a toggle button (like my Audi A4). If you start the car on a chilly 0F morning, the seats do not heat up as you have not pressed the seat heater button (before you get in the car), but with a dial you could leave the seat heat setting on "warm" the night before so they come on when you start the car up remotely in the morning.
17) While having a Aux in connector on the audio, I would also like proper iPod integration so that you can control the iPod via the audio, have full menu support and standard functions via the Audio screen. If this meant upgrading to a Nav system to get the screen for these functions that would be acceptable.
Well that is my laundry list of improvements I would like to see. Will it happen? Doubt it!
The current Freestyle was the first Ford I have ever considered and bought. In 2005 when were bought it was simply best crossover (for pretty much any money) that suited our needs. Were we thrilled with everything in the Ford? No. But the utility of the car was great and I still think it is great today. However the competition has caught up and if I were to buy again now, odds are I would get either a Saturn Outlook or the GMC Acadia. Both cars have style, even better room and a nicer interior (though still not perfect).
Don't underestimate the power of "customer requirements!"
tidester, host
The problem I see with a backup camera is that it is 2 easy for a customer to stare at the screen and therefore not be aware of vehicles, objects, bikes, people who are to the side of the camera view but moving toward the back of the vehicle.
With the back up sensors, you still have to look around and be aware of your surroundings.
I think Ford might be worried about liability from people that get run over by some maroon who only looked at the screen.
Nissan has already told us that under no circumstances should we refer to the backup camera in the Quest and Murano as a "safety feature" it is strickly a convenience feature.
Mark.
i noticed this because my kids like them on, and when i go to work in the morning, sometimes the passenger seat heater goes on, although i am the only one in the car.
i don't know if the freestlye works the same way.
Yes that will switch themselves off after a certain period of time. Alas they will not auto switch on using the remote start.
Still it could be worse. I can at least run out and switch them on, but in my mother-in-laws Cadillac the heated seats will no even switch on unless they detect that someone is sitting in the seat. So much for technology eh?
Look the the pricing of the new Buick Enclave. That will start in the mid high $30s but with options will probably get into mid/high $40s. Still it looks a lot of car for the money but I'm too young for a Buick
Hmmm, mine only has "two burner" and "one burner" positions. I don't get three burners.
I do get the OFF position, too.
my seat heaters are a button, too. push it on, it may time out, but it goes on the next time the car is started.
i don't know if the seat heaters in the other vehicles work the same way.
Now my Audi has 6 heat positions (actually as its a dial its infinite from 0 to 6) where 6 seems hot enough tp fry a egg in 60 seconds (good to get the seat warm and toasty in about 2 minutes on the -0F days) to 1 which is good to keep your bum warm nice and warm on a decent commute. I wish the Freestyle's heated seats were as good as an Audi's then then it was cost $50K.....
News of that here!
That Acadia is sounding more tempting each time I look at it as a replacement for my aging Audi. I won't get rid of the Freestyle as it is still decent enough but considering all the crap that GM got last year, when I see the products they are introducing now, GM definitely is on the up. Whereas Ford unfortunately still does not have a clue. Regrettably I see nothing in Ford's pipeline to make me want to buy any of their upcoming models. GM yes, Ford No..
Oh well...
It is a shame though that these vehicles are getting heavier and heavier, but I guess that use of lighter weight materials such as aluminum would make the car way too expensive for its chosen market.
Do you really need your eyes to tell you if your heated seat is on? Are your pants that thick?
Mark.
We're talking about remote start capabilities. It would be nice to know your seats are heating in your remotely started car when you are having your morning coffee at 6am and it is -5F and pitch black before leaving the house and driving to work...
Do you know that the 08 will be unveiled for certain at Chicago, as the Freestyle is not listed as being a production debut a Chicago, whereas the 08 Five Hundred is. The Freestyle is lumped in with the usual production cars.
At this time, it does not look like Ford will show it. Perhaps they are waiting for New York?
1. Aluminum roof -- lowers the center of gravity.
2. Selectable 2WD/AWD/locked -- Allows the driver to keep it in 2WD in the summer-time and clear weather, which is 99% of the time, preventing MPG losses from AWD.
3. Outlander's 3.0L engine: variable valve timing
4. Stability control -- also known as "anti-skid".
Why can't Ford blow away the competition with these features, as I love my Freestyle already, but it could be a world-beater with a few quality goodies.
One should note that the FreeStyle AWD does not need to be selected - it engages when needed (even in the summer during unexpected events like gravel). Which system is preferable is a decision that each buyer needs to make.
The Outlander has not been rated for rollover since 2002, when it got two stars. I don't know why the newer models have not been tested. The Freestyle gets 4 stars - it is not top heavy at all, and I don't think it particularly needs stability control.
The Freestyle has a AWD system that makes the Outlanders look like something from a 69 Jeep CJ.
The Outlander does not offer a CVT or 6speed auto.
The Freestyle is one of the highest rated vehicles in front offset and side impact tests.
The Freestyle is the first vehicle tested for side impact by NHTSA that scored FIVE STARS WITHOUT the then optional side airbags.
The Freestyle 3 row is much roomier.
The Freestyle has a better record of reliability and resale. Just check CR.
Mark.
Aluminim roof - I dunno - how it handle rollovers or hail? Just had my FS roof replaced due to hail - whats cost of an aluminum roof?
In considering possible new Freestyle features, are you confusing the Land Rover Freelander with the Mitsu Outlander? Or maybe an earlier model year Outlander? The 2007 Outlander has a 6-speed auto and an electronic-clutch AWD system.
Others might be confused about the selectable 2WDonly/AWD/locked feature, too, as its 2WD setting is merely there for greater fuel economy, a feature the FreestyleAWD needs. Otherwise, people can select an automatic AWD for everyday driving, and the locked feature for getting out of a ditch or other slow-speed up-hill rare needs.
And, those wondering about the value of an aluminum roof and stability control (in any kind of vehicle) should understand that any car/SUV/CUV can skid, and any can benefit (handling) from a lower center of gravity which the lighter, but equal strength, aluminum provides. Maybe the point here is that the aluminum roof is more structurally efficient, meaning it is just as strong as an all-steel roof but lighter in mass, a good thing.
Nope, the Freestyle already has the greater fuel economy offered by it's FWD / AWD only when needed system. It runs in FWD almost all the time... In my opinion, having the capability to turn off the AWD is dumb. What if the car suddenly hits a spot that needs AWD? Sounds more like marketing than a smart idea.
OK, so it is all right a design to be dumb, I suppose... but I don't see the point of hauling all that AWD weight around only to force the transmission into FWD. :surprise:
The Freestyle DOES run in 2WD most of the time . . . in fact, ALL of the time until the system decides that the rear wheels need to have some torque applied to them.
http://info.detnews.com/autosinsider/sneakpeek/index.cfm
Its not much of a sneak peak though....
Yes, facts are great. Could you please provide a URL that references the Freestyle AWD and includes this 10% figure? My own research indicates that power is not routed unless needed. The MPG hit is partially explained by the additional weight of the AWD hardware.
However, even with the 10% (pending documentation), I think that the Ford AWD system is better, and see no point in hauling the AWD hardware around in 2WD mode.
In any case, I just checked the Specs on the two vehicles. The Freestyle AWD is about 450 lbs heavier than the outlander, and has about 20 more Cu Ft behind the 2nd row, and 9 more Cu Ft behind the third row. It also has advantages in 2nd row legroom, and a much larger gas tank. You can actually get 400 miles on a tank in the Freestyle, but I don't think the Outlander could match that.
Considering the weight alone, I'm surprised that the difference in MPG isn't greater.
The Outlander has advantages in towing capability, turning radius, and HP.
It would appear that the Outlander is quite a bit smaller (by about 20 inches) on the outside, shorter wheelbase.
http://www.haldex-traction.com/awdclub/news/050604.htm
" In normal driving, the vehicle uses front-wheel-drive, but the driveshaft also turns whenever the vehicle is moving, ready to supply power to the rear wheels at a moment’s notice."
"Whenever the driveshaft spins faster than the rear wheels – indicating front-wheel slippage – it builds hydraulic pressure inside the Haldex coupler, engaging clutch plates that quickly pull power to the rear wheels."