2000 Ford Windstar Review
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By John Rettie

Overview

Every year auto companies unveil new features on minivans attempting to one-up the competition. When Chrysler came out with a sliding side door on the driver's side it caught everyone by surprise, including Ford, which had to make do with an enlarged driver's door until last year when the newest version of the Windstar finally got a second sliding door.

This year it's Ford's turn to be first: The Windstar is the first minivan to feature power-adjustable pedals. Short and tall drivers should be able to adjust the seats and pedals for the safest, most comfortable driving position.

A neat entertainment center is also available as an option (though Oldsmobile was the first with that one last year). In the area of safety though, Windstar still rates at the top of government crash tests with a five-star rating.

Model Lineup

The base Windstar wagon comes with a 3.0-liter V6 engine and includes anti-lock brakes (ABS), air conditioning and dual airbags. With seating for seven, it starts at $21,315. The second sliding door is now available as an option ($500) on the base model. The 3.8-liter V6 is available for $685.

Windstar LX model starts at $23,965. Windstar SE retails for $27,615. The $30,610 SEL and $33,360 Limited comprise the top of the line. (A Windstar Van without carpeting and passenger seats is also available for $19,815.)