Ford has adopted Chrysler's design for sliding doors, neatly hiding the runners along the lower edge of the rear side window instead of gouging them out of the body-side panel. This gives the Windstar a less utilitarian, more upscale look. Power operation for the dual sliding doors is optional on the SE, and standard on the SEL and Limited.

With the power-operated doors, you can open up the van by remote control, using a button on the key fob. This can be real benefit when you've got an armload and it's raining. It's also nice for folks who find opening and closing those heavy doors a bit strenuous. The one shortcoming of the power doors is that they move slower than most people could slide the door by hand. Nonetheless, kids love the power doors. A safety feature automatically stops the doors should some errant body part block their path.

Unlike some of its domestic competitors, Windstar is available in one length only. It is among the largest of the minivans, comparable in size to the Dodge Grand Caravan, the Chrysler Town & Country, and the Honda Odyssey. Windstar's total interior volume with seats removed is nearly identical to that of these big minivans, none of which are mini.