There are no surprises lurking ahead for the first-time Villager driver. Anyone with experience in a sedan or station wagon will feel right at home, because the Villager sounds and feels like the vehicles van novices are used to.Actually, the Mercury minivan feels better than many passenger cars. Its steering is precise, performance is brisk, and standard anti-lock brakes add an extra measure of security to an already good braking system. The only possible negative factor in the Villager driving experience - and it won't bother the majority of owners - is an excess of body lean during brisk cornering. That can be addressed with the addition of the optional handling suspension package, which cures roll without any noticeable increase in ride harshness. The firm suspension also helps out when heavy loads are carried, so it probably should be given serious consideration by anyone who plans to fill the rear seats (or cargo area) regularly.
It would be nice if the sporty chassis option were joined by a sportier engine, but such is not the case. Although the existing unit is fine for most use, it is a little understrength for dealing with either a full load inside or a heavy trailer. Don't be fooled by that 3500-lb. rating with the optional towing package: Any-one who chooses to pull that much weight had better be prepared for a slow trip.