1990-1997 Ford Aerostar: Road Test

The 3.0-liter engine produces adequate muscle, but the extra grunt of a 4.0-liter V6 is welcome, helping to haul around the hardware of the available 4-wheel-drive system. Don't expect great gas mileage with either engine: around 15 mpg in city/suburban driving, or low 20s on the highway. Poor traction can be a problem in rain or snow with the rear-drive Aerostar. Ride quality is another drawback, even with the Aerostar's long wheelbase. Suspensions are not very compliant, producing a rather harsh experience over bumps, though an Aerostar is stable and well-controlled. Cabins are roomy. Seven people can sit without squeezing, and the XLT and Eddie Bauer models contain plush and comfortable interior furnishings. Getting into the front seats requires a high step up. Cargo space is unimpressive in standard-size models, when all seats are in place.

Value for the Money
Aerostar and the Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari are better suited to heavy-duty work, such as hauling hefty payloads or towing trailers (up to 4800 pounds), than the league-leading front-drive Chrysler minivans.