Ford Aerostar

Introduction

First Generation
The Ford Aerostar was introduced as a competitor to the Chevrolet Astro and Dodge Caravan in 1986, with three engine choices, a 2.3L I4, a 2.8L V6, and a 3.0L V6. When the Aerostar came out it had three body styles. The 4-cylinder engine was dropped in 1988. Also in 1988 the Eddie Bauer model was introduced. Most of its features came from the XLT model. 14 inch wheels were standard on the Eddie Bauer model. In 1989 the Aerostar got a facelift. In 1990, Ford re-tooled the engine and drivetrain options, dropping the 2.3L and 2.8L engines and offering a 4.0L V6 coupled with fully-automatic AWD. In 1990 the Aerostar outsold the Astro and the Caravan. The Aerostar won Motor Trend's "Car of the Year" also in 1990.

Second Generation
In 1992, Ford freshened the van with a minor exterior bodywork update and completely new interior dash, which included a driver airbag. Drivetrain options remained unchanged. In 1995, Ford began the change to EEC-V (OBD-II) engine control, which resulted in a minor fuel mileage drop, but the van was otherwise unchanged. The Eddie Bauer model was discontinued in 1996. Ford chose to make 1997 the farewall year for the Aerostar, having decided that it was too costly to revamp the van again to include a passenger airbag, which was required of all US vehicles by the the 1998 model year. The Aerostar was still a strong seller in 1997, selling over 100,000 units a year until its un-timely demise.

Future models
No plans have been officially announced by Ford to revive the Aerostar nameplate. Small-scale efforts are currently underway by fans of the design to persuade Ford to reconsider this decision, but nothing has yet been announced.

Main Competitors

 * Nissan Micra
 * Ford Figo
 * Toyota Etios Liva
 * Hyundai Getz
 * Mitsubishi Colt
 * Toyota Yaris
 * Honda Fit/Jazz
 * Tata Indica
 * Hyundai i20
 * Chevrolet Aveo