2003 Ford Windstar

Though SUVs have lured droves of buyers with their rough-and-ready image, well-engineered minivans actually offer more practical virtue, given the way most people really drive. Granted, minivans are burdened with a decidedly non-trendy family image, but for people who can see the beauty within, there's a lot to like.


Under pressure from the growing SUV marketplace, sales of minivans have slumped a bit. But make no mistake, this is still a very strong class of vehicles—an awful lot of people are unashamedly investing in minivan practicality.

Aerodynamic improvements for 2003 include redesigned side mirrors and moldings as well as B-pillar appliques.

Solidly second place in the class (behind the Dodge Caravan/Grand Caravan) is the Ford Windstar. First launched in 1995, the front-drive Windstar comes in a single size—201.5 inches long overall on a 120.7-inch wheelbase. Those dimensions are comparable to extended-length versions of the Dodge Caravan or Chevrolet Venture. Four trim levels are available: the high-volume LX, sporty SE and SEL, and luxurious Limited. Ford continues to produce a Windstar panel van for commercial use.


Wind-tunnel-inspired refinements head the list of changes for 2003. Thicker side glass and improved body sealing helps limit road noise. Better aerodynamics are achieved with more svelte side mirrors and body moldings. The Windstar trim lineup carries over from last year. The LX edition comes in Base, Standard or Deluxe form, the latter equipped with 16-inch machined aluminum wheels. All Windstars have dual sliding doors, with power operation available.


All Windstars share the same 3.8-liter V-6 engine that generates 200 horsepower and 240 lb.-ft. of torque and is coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission. Though the peak horsepower doesn't sound overly dazzling when stacked up against the 240 horsepower you'll find in the Honda Odyssey, there's more to the story. The Windstar develops almost identical peak torque (the Honda beats the Ford by just 2 lb.-ft.), and does it at a significantly lower engine rpm. That means the Windstar requires less revving than the Honda in normal driving and feels perfectly capable even with a full load in the cabin. Other significant powertrain features: All-speed traction control is an option (standard on the Limited). As for the environment, the Windstar qualifies as an Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle.