I've had the van for 3 years now. I bought it with 85K miles on it and have 140K now. I bought it because I got Nissan quality at Ford depreciation levels, so it was cheap. I like the Nissan engine and transmission. Only problems I've had were the usual Ford electrical gremlins. It is a gas hog. Seating system is poorly designed. Van is noisy going down highway (wind noise mostly.) I'm basically satisfied but can't figure out why this thing only gets 18-20 mpg when other bigger vans with bigger engines get 25 mpg. It's a good, cheap van, though.
Best Features
Really good air conditioning and heat.
Engine is reliable.
We were initially intrigued with the Villager because it is basically a cheaper version of the Nissan Quest, but it has been the worst investment of our lives. We have had nothing but repairs season after season, year after year. We thought we got if for a bargain, but the cost of the repairs makes this vehicle worthless. I hate this van and would not recommend it to anyone. It is noisy, has brake issues, ac issues and has slow acceleration. It eats gas as if it were an truck. Very very disappointing buy. I am looking for a replacement now. I would never recommend this van to anyone. It may be cheap in price only because it is cheap in quality.
Best Features
Leather seats.
Worst Features
The van should be taken off the road and refund given back to the poor buyers of this piece of junk.
2001 Mercury Villager Minivan Sport 4dr Minivan (3.3L 6cyl 4A)
Review
My Villager has been extremely reliable and comfortable. I have had no problems with it. It's a fun van to drive and I wish they were still making them!
Best Features
I love the look of it. I love the sunroof, tinted windows, and leather interior. My favorite feature has been the speed and the power of it.
Worst Features
My only imporvements would be automatic sliding doors and liftgate...but that wasn't available then. I am sad that Mercury doesn't make it anymore, because I would go get another one.