The 3.0-liter V6 is standard, by the way, putting its power through a CVT gearbox in both front- and all-wheel drive trim
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| Starting at $33,295, the new crossover is really inexpensive considering all it brings to the table. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
levels. The brakes are all discs and feature standard ABS, while a 17-inch alloy wheel and tire package is also included. Inside, an AM/FM/single-CD audio system also comes standard, while power door locks with remote keyless entry and door-mounted keyless entry key pad, power windows with driver's door one-touch up and down, and a 6-way power driver's seat with manual lumber adjustment are also included.
Like the Five Hundred, the Freestyle is available in three trim levels, SE, SEL and Limited. Again, as in the Five Hundred,
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| The new Fords deliver much less power than the Chrysler products, with a focus on fuel economy rather than out-and-out performance. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
the optional all-wheel drive can be had on all three trim levels for an extra $2,750. While the new Chrysler Pacifica is an obvious rival to the two new Ford models, the Five Hundred and Freestyle are more conservatively drawn and therefore will attract a different set of customers. The Fords offer much less power than the Chrysler products as well, with a focus on fuel economy rather than out-and-out performance. Corresponding high fuel costs may mean that Ford hit the mark with regards to timing the launches of the new pair, which should be reasonably fuel efficient due to its smaller 3.0-liter engine and CVT transmissions.
