Windstar wages minivan duty with a full service attitude. With seating for seven, spread over three rows, Windstar remains a popular vehicle choice for families. On the safety side, the minivan adds an electronic stability enhancement system (AdvanceTrac) for the 2003 model year. Windstar earned the U.S. government’s highest front crash rating and matched that five star score for side impacts when the minivan is equipped with side air bags. (One overlooked safety consideration: no shoulder harness for the third row center-seated passenger.) Also new for 2003 are painted front and rear fascias as well as aero-smart side mirrors. The side mirrors include turn arrows, but the amber color is difficult to see in inclement weather. Windstar is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 that provides 200 horsepower at 4900 rpm and 240 pounds-feet torque at 3600 rpm. Engine mates to an automatic four-speed transaxle. The front wheel drive minivan has a number of standard features, including a low tire pressure warning system and anti-lock braking system. Windstar emphasizes a rather bland interior, especially via dashboard ‘dead space.’ The vehicle could benefit from additional storage areas. But Windstar scores appreciation points for offering audio/video plug-ins, two power outlets, driver side and passenger side power sliding doors as well as heat/air conditioning controls (located on roof trim for second row passenger). Windstar SEL has a base price in the $31,000 range.