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1998 Mercury Villager LS Wagon--A Versatile Minivan
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| Updated |
Jun 3, 2004 17:12:14 |
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 48 ( -9 -18.75% ) | | Author | Bruce Caldwell |
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Description:
A lot of different-sized vehicles call themselves minivans, but the Mercury Villager LS is one of the few that's still true to the original concept. Since so many minivans have grown, the Villager now seems small by comparison. Its size is similar to the Chrysler minivans that initially defined this market segment. The Villager's relatively petite size is one of its best traits, but it's also a shortcoming. Its compactness makes it nimble and fun to drive, easy to park, and it fits neatly in any garage. The short length, however, compromises rear seat leg room and cargo space. This isn't a problem if your most frequent passengers are children, but the second row captain's seats squeeze the knees of most adults. The third row bench seat is roomier. All of the seats are comfortable and very versatile. They recline (even the third seat) which is great for kids on long trips. The seat backs fold down to serve as trays with cup holders. And the seats can be easily rearranged for a variety of configurations.
The '98 Mercury Villager is pleasant to drive. The sole engine offering is a 151-horsepower 3.0 liter V-6 with a four-speed automatic. Power is simply 'adequate.' Our average fuel economy of 19 mpg was a little disappointing for such a small van. Our somewhat lukewarm reaction to the Villager is due to the huge strides made by other minivans since its 1993 introduction. A great '93 minivan suddenly becomes a merely satisfactory '98 edition when its features haven't kept up with the competition--but, unfortunately, the price has. Our well-equipped (but not the top model) LS had a sticker price over $27,000. The Villager is scheduled for a redesign and probably a fourth door in 1999. The Mercury Villager is still worth considering for families with younger children who want more car-like handling and greater maneuverability than most other minivans can offer. |
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