2001 Ford Windstar: Road Test
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2001 Ford Windstar ▼
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- MSRP: $20,220 -$33,765
- Invoice: $18,646 -$30,701
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Our road test for the 2001 Ford Windstar includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Ford Windstar from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Ford Windstar, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Ford Windstar help you decide if a 2001 Ford Windstar is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| LX, 3-dr | SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.6 |
Strong standard 3.8 V6 provides sufficient power, even with a full load of passengers.
FUEL ECONOMY
| LX, 3-dr | SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
In mostly city driving, our test 3.8 averaged 14.8 mpg--below average for a minivan.
RIDE QUALITY
| LX, 3-dr | SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.8 |
Windstar's long wheelbase helps provide a stable ride, though some bumps and ruts register harshly.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| LX, 3-dr | SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.6 |
Competent, but steering feels artificial and doesn't respond as quickly as that of the Honda Odyssey or General Motors minivans. Worse, our SEL test model exhibited annoying torque steer--a tug on the steering wheel in fast take-offs. Brake-pedal feel is good, but overall stopping power is only average.
QUIETNESS
| LX, 3-dr | SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.6 |
Engine sounds gruff under acceleration but quiets at cruise. Road noise intrudes at highway speeds.
CONTROLS
| LX, 3-dr | SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.7 |
Audio controls are too busy, but we like climate system's ability to run air conditioning in all vent modes. Rear-seat video screen is mounted at near floor-level, not visible from 3rd-row seat. Optional Reverse Sensing System, which sounds warning of obstacles when backing, is a worthwhile option.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| LX, 3-dr | SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 5.9 |
Fine room with easy access thanks to a low step-in and wide doorway. Power adjustable pedals help a range of drivers position themselves a safe distance from the steering wheel airbag. But some of our testers find the driver's seat itself uncomfortable.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| LX, 3-dr | SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 6.7 |
Power sliding doors a genuine convenience. Seats comfortable and their backs fold and recline, though no integrated child seat offered. Third-row seat hard to access. Three-door LX entry/exit suffers.
CARGO ROOM
| LX, 3-dr | SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 9.2 |
The rear hatch raises and lowers easily, though separate opening rear glass isn't available. Seats are heavy and hard to remove, but there's good space behind the 3rd row.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| LX, 3-dr | SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
Minivans from Dodge, Chrysler, and Honda are our Best Buys, but the roomy Windstar boasts some noteworthy safety and convenience features.
Total Score
| LX, 3-dr | SEL | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 55 | 57 | 54.5 |
Total Score: 56
Scores for all Minivans
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