Ford’s Freestyle offers a blend of sedan and sport utility vehicle. Marketed as a crossover vehicle, the Freestyle has all the spaciousness of an SUV with the lower ride of a sedan. Of course, with its three seating rows, spacious storage areas (molded map pockets also feature cup holders) and versatility, it also feels somewhat like a minivan. The five-door, seven-passenger Freestyle recently was recognized as the top performer in its category in the government’s 2005 rollover stability test. And the crossover vehicle is equipped with Ford’s Safety Canopy system, which offers head protection for all three rows of outboard occupants in side impacts and rollovers.

New for 2006, the line’s second year in creation, is the available navigation system and a new paint color: Silver Birch. The Navigation system adds $1,995 to the $30,500 base price tag, and its smallish screen is difficult to see at a glance. However, with some practice, it was easy to use. Built on a Volvo P2 car platform modified especially for the Freestyle, passengers will appreciate the smooth ride, especially on the all-wheel drive Limited, our test-drive, which uses an electronically controlled Haldex system to regulate torque to the rear wheels when the front wheels slip. The rest of the time, the Freestyle is front wheel drive. An independent MacPherson front strut and an independent multilink rear coil cushion the ride. All Freestyles -- the base SE, mid-level SEL and top-of-the-line Limited -- use an automatic transmission and Ford’s DOHC 3.0 liter V-6 Duratec engine, also used in the Ford Five Hundred sedan. Mated to a continuous variable transmission (CVT), there is adequate starting and on-highway power, but more engine muscle would be nice. The CVT winds up to provide maximum rpms upon demand and stays there until you back off the accelerator, unlike transmissions that automatically downshift gears. This keeps the engine at peak power but the resulting engine whine takes some getting used to. Space is ample inside, with a deep well paired with a high cargo net behind the third-row seating for luggage, groceries, etc. Third-row seats easily fold flat, and second seats are easily removed. Third row passengers receive extra headroom. Wood trim surrounds the center console, while attractive plastic grain and chrome touches elsewhere give an upscale look. The fit and finish inside is top-notch.

Except for engine whine, noise levels are low with little wind and road sound. The profile says SUV, with the long hood, high belt line, 18-inch wheels, flared wheel arches and tie-down rails on an upward sloping roof.