1999 Mercury Villager Trim, agile and completely redesigned. By Martin Padgett Jr., New Car Test Drive .com

Mercury has completely redesigned and re-engineered its Villager for 1999. It's five inches longer than last year's Villager, giving rear passengers and cargo more space. A second sliding door readies the Villager for the new millenium. Bins and cubbyholes have been added to make everyday life easier and a unique sliding seat transforms it into a mini-limousine. More power and a quieter engine increase its driving appeal.

Still, the Villager offers a leaner, more athletic stance than the other minivans on the market. It's smaller than the Dodge Grand Caravan or Ford Windstar, with dimensions closer to a Dodge Caravan.

In short, the 1999 Villager has all the trappings of the big guys, but offers nimble handling and smart styling. Some may miss the extra room offered by a long-wheelbase Ford or Dodge, but others will prefer the Villager's quick reflexes and versatility.