Ford Windstar reviews

1999 Ford Windstar Walkaround

Although the redesigned Windstar is immediately recognizable as a Windstar, it has a fatter and more substantial look to it than the previous model. In actual fact, the new model is slightly shorter and a little wider than previously. Ford designers have shortened the length by giving the minivan a less sleek nose. The top-of-the-line SEL model tested has a chrome-plated grille that gives the vehicle a more luxurious look than before. The width of the vehicle has increased because of bigger fender flares. Unfortunately, the track was not increased so the wheels do not fill the wheel well as well as before -- even with the bigger tires fitted on the SEL -- and that makes the Windstar look a bit over-bodied.

Ford has adopted Chrysler's design feature where the runners for the sliding doors are neatly hidden along the lower edge of the rear side window instead of being gouged out of the body side panel. It gives the Windstar a less utilitarian look. The second sliding door is an option on the Windstar LX and standard on the SE and SEL models. Power operation of both doors is also optional on all but the SEL version, where it is standard.

Power-operated doors are a neat feature as it is convenient to be able to open the doors by the remote key fob from a distance, especially if it is raining. It's also nice for those who find opening and closing the doors a bit strenuous. The one shortcoming is that they move more slowly than manually operated doors which can be closed in no time at all. It takes a few seconds for the electric motor to close the doors. Kids love the power doors, of course. The doors stop closing automatically if any object, such as a kid's leg, is encountered.

The basic Windstar is sold as a cargo van with just two seats and no carpeting in the rear. It costs just $18,955 and comes with a 3.0-liter V6 engine but does include ABS and dual airbags. The lowest priced wagon with seating for seven starts at $20,800 but still does not include air conditioning, which costs a minimum of $1,075 depending on which option package is ordered. To get the second sliding door, one has to purchase the LX model, which starts at $24,240. Opt for power sliding doors and quickly the price starts rising towards the level of the $30,995 SEL model. (All prices include $580 destination charge.)