Overall we like it--but there are a few things we wished were different!

We had a 1992 Ford Aerostar and really liked it. But when the transmission started to go we decided to shop for a "new to us" van.

We didn't know what we would end up with since we were shopping used. When we found the Windstar we ended up buying, we were pleased. We had to sacrifice on a couple of features we wanted but it had better safety ratings than the Dodge Caravan (which were everywhere on the used car lots).

We sacrificed on the dual sliding door--when we were shopping we were close to having 4 children 6 and under and we wanted the ease of it. But reading safety reviews we realized that while giving up on convenience we were gaining in safety. As it turns out it wasn't a real sacrifice as the front drivers seat slides forward in such a way that a child can easily get into his seat and the driver slides the seat back into place easily!

One thing we were not happy to give up was the heat/air controls to the rear of the van. Thankfully we live in a very mild area with few temperature extremes so the boys don't get too hot or too cold.

Our gas mileage has been much better with this van than with the heavier Aerostar. I also like how it handles like a car.

We knew when purchasing this van that there is NO TRUNK space. (it has a lot more than the Dodge Caravan however) It is difficult to fit a stroller in the back--one of our double strollers is too big and won't fit. We had been spoiled by having the Aerostar extended so this has been an adjustment! I actually damaged the window tinting film by trying to cram a larger item into the too small trunk. If you have the choice by the extended version!

The seats do pop out fairly easily. But while they can be done by only one person it is better suited to two people doing it.

We have had problems with the LOCKS. We have keyless remote entry. Sometimes either the sliding door or the trunk lock will not unlock that way. Thankfully we did discover that we can disarm the alarm and then use the key to unlock the stuck lock.

We also have a van that makes a very funny whiny noise. We've grown used to it and it doesn't affect how it drives, but it is a bit annoying. We've had our van described as a "rocket van" due to the noise.

I really like that carseat tether straps attach directly to a metal piece on the seat rather than the floor. It makes it much easier for the passengers in the rear bench seat to get into his seat.

It is nice and roomy for our four boys and all the seats are quite comfortable. I would definitely buy a Windstar again and do recommend it highly--after all, all vehicles have minor quirks.