Roomy practicality - 2002 Ford Windstar minivan
Safety, comfort and convenience continue to be the watch words for the Ford Windstar. A long list of safety features are combined with many "family friendly" features and options to make this entry in the hotly contested minivan segment an honest contender.
Available in LX, SE, SEL and Limited trim levels, the Windstar is built Ford's Oakville, Ontario, Canada, manufacturing complex. The Ford minivan is also available as a panel van for commercial use.
For 2002, the volume LX model receives a new look that includes standard driving lamps and painted body-color front and rear fascias. The 3.8L V-6 bolted to the AX4N four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive lockout, is the only powertrain offered.
In 1999 Windstar was the first vehicle in the industry to achieve a quadruple five-star rating in federal government front and side impact crash tests. The front and side rating are based on protection for the drive and front passenger, and side ratings for the second-row passengers. The ratings are based on four-door models with optional side-impact airbags.
On the road, the Windstar is smooth, powerful, quiet and nimble. Handling is predictable and never uncertain. An independent MacPherson strut front suspension, front stabilizer bar, coil springs and gas shock absorbers are combined with a twist beam axle, variable rate coil springs and gas shock absorbers at the rear to isolate the occupants from road imperfections. P215/70R15 or P215/65R16 (LX) and P225/60R16 (SE, SEL, Limited) tires work with the suspension components to deliver an exceptional ride.
Inside the cabin, the engineers lavished plenty of attention, beginning with the sliding doors. While just a manual right hand sliding door is standard for the entry level LX, the SE features standard dual manual sliding doors. SEL and Limited models are equipped with dual power sliding doors. Power sliders are an $900 option for the SE.
Displays and controls are straight forward, easy to see and operate. The driver enjoys good outward visibility. Both driver and front passenger seats have built-in armrests for added comfort. Wide front doors and a low, flat floor facilitate entry and exit. A small center console between the driver and front passenger contains a cavernous storage bin. The dashboard features two cupholders and a powerpoint with an additional powerpoint convenient to the front passenger.
With 136.4 cubic feet of interior space, a very roomy cabin helps second and third seat passengers enjoy good leg room, with cupholders built into the seats. The rear door opens wide with the opening flush with the cargo floor. A powerpoint located in the cargo area rounds out the versatility of this minivan.
Ratings & specifications
Engine performance numbers for the 3.8L OHV V-6 are 200 hp at 4,900 rpm and 240 lb-ft at 3,600 rpm. EPA fuel economy numbers are 18 city/24 highway using regular unleaded gasoline. Underhood fluids are generally clearly marked and easily accessible.
Properly equipped, the Ford Windstar has a maximum payload capacity of 1,200 pounds and can tow a trailer with a maximum weight of 3,500 pounds.
Standard safety/security features include dual front airbags, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, Securilock passive anti-theft system coded ignition key and automatic power door locks. LX four-door adds remote keyless entry, alarm system and privacy glass. Limited adds all-speed traction control, perimeter alarm system, dual front side impact airbags, self sealing tires and full size spare tire.
The Limited model also features Ford's exclusive Reverse Sensing System. This system features four ultrasonic sensors in the rear bumper to detect certain obstacles up to six feet away from the rear of the vehicle.
Optional safety equipment includes front side-impact airbags ($390); Family Security Group 1 (LX 4 dr.) self sealing tires, perimeter anti-theft system and traction control ($455); Family Security Group 2 (SE and SEL) self sealing tires, perimeter anti-theft system, reverse sensing system and traction control ($600).
The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2002 Ford Windstar begins at $22,135 for the base LX three-door up to $33,705 for the top-of-the-line Limited. Destination charges add $655. Ford reports ample supplies of the Windstar, so choosing one should not be a problem. The automaker is offering $1,500 in customer cash that ends Jan. 14, 2002.
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