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Freestyle's chassis, brakes, steering and suspension contribute to its outstanding driving dynamics and car-like ride and handling.
Platform Derived from Volvo
• With a proven platform, Ford used computer-aided
engineering to develop the Freestyle's platform and
improve its stiffness
• Freestyle's platform features a stiff unibody construction and
robust U-shaped rear subframe
• Rigid chassis and subframe allowed engineers to address
ride and handling characteristics by tuning the suspension
for a smooth ride
• This is the same platform used on the Volvo XC90, S60
and S80
Independent MacPherson Strut Front Suspension
• Front and rear suspensions derived from Volvo are similar to
the suspensions used on the Volvo XC90, S60 and S80
• The independent front suspension uses a MacPherson strut
design with a rearward-facing L-arm. It provides the
maximum amount of room in front of the suspension to help
improve crash performance
• Bushings in the suspension can be independently tuned for
responsive steering and a smooth ride
• Individually tuned bushings play a key role in the
suspension's performance
• A hydrobushing located at the rear of the lower control arm
uses oil-filled internal chambers to dampen road forces
before they reach the passenger compartment
• A large bushing at the top of the MacPherson strut mount
helps resist vertical movements that occur as a result of
uneven surfaces. It also resists side deflection to maintain
a crisp steering feel
• A coil-over-shock design places the shock right in the center
of the coil spring. The reduced offset limits twisting
or lateral forces that could bind the shock and cause a
harsher ride
• Lower control arms on AWD models are made of
hydroformed steel and are extra stiff to resist both lateral
and longitudinal forces
July 2005
2006 Freestyle
Performance/Handling
Ride and Handling
Independent Multi-link Rear Suspension
• Front and rear suspensions derived from Volvo
• Freestyle's independent multi-link rear suspension is built
• There are 30 different bushings on AWD models (24 on
• Front and rear suspensions are tuned for consistent shock
• The independent suspension design means that each
• Joining the two sides of the subframe is a small lateral
• During heavy braking, the suspension causes slight toe-in —
Driving Dynamics
• Various chassis components work in harmony to provide
• Stiff chassis and unibody construction provide a solid
• Precise and responsive steering helps contribute to the
• Independent front and rear suspensions are tuned for
• Large four-wheel disc brakes help bring Freestyle to smooth,
• The suspension, chassis, steering and brakes have all been
PERFORMANCE/HANDLING
Independent MacPherson Strut Front Suspension
on a stout U-shaped subframe which allows the shock
absorbers, springs and bushings to better do their jobs
FWD models)— each designed for its specific task —
to precisely tune ride and handling characteristics
absorption front to rear, creating a smooth ride and precise
handling
wheel can react to road irregularities with no effect on
the opposite wheel
brace that adds stiffness and strength for the extra load
a rear differential in AWD-equipped models
which is how much the front part of two opposite wheels
point toward the center of the vehicle. This helps enhance
steering stability
Freestyle with outstanding driving dynamics
foundation to mount suspension components and
allow for softer spring rates for a plush ride without
sacrificing handling
easy maneuverability of Freestyle
a smooth ride while also providing precise handling.
Independent design absorbs road irregularities with
minimal effect on the opposite wheel
controlled stops
designed to work together to provide Freestyle with the
optimal balance of ride, handling, steering and braking for
the absolute best possible driving experience
This page is about:
Platform Derived from Volvo
Independent Multi-link Rear Suspension
Driving Dynamics
17
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