The Ford E-series, for more than three years, has proven a profitable vehicle for the carmaker. The vehicle's success can be attributed to the fast changes occurring in the segment. This vehicle is a common fleet offering, and it has not seen many refreshments over the years. The Econoline got a few functional changes in the past three decades. The Ford E-Series is sold to consumers with a chassis cab or as a cargo panel van, as a passenger wagon or as a cutaway. Essentially, the E-Series is an offering that's ideal for many purposes and it has customizable options.
The E-Series van has a few flaws however. First, in terms of its fuel-economy, the E-Series warrants improvements, regardless of the fact that all of the vehicles host 8500 plus pound gross weights, and are not confined by EPA ratings. The size of this van ranges from 216.7 to 237.7 inches so it is large, bulky, and hard to handle or park. The driving manners are cumbersome, and this vehicle is sorely in need of side curtain air bags.
The Range
Bodystyles: Van
Engines: 4.6L V-8, 5.4L V-8, 6.8L V-10
Transmissions: 5-speed automatic, 4-speed automatic
Models: E-150, E-150 XLT, E-150 Premium, E-250, E-350 XL, E-350 XL Extended Length, E-350 XLT, E-350 XLT Extended Length
What's New
The rarely-revised E-Series received a substantial update for 2009 that included numerous cosmetic updates to the interior and a host of comfort, convenience, and technology features. These include a navigation system, rear backup camera, rear-seat entertainment system, extra power ports, new glovebox, and Ford's exclusive Work Solutions systems. As such, the 2010 model carries over without any changes.
Exterior
E-series passenger vans are available in regular or extended-length flavor. E-Series XL models come with black plastic grilles, while others get chrome. A sliding side cargo door can be had instead of the standard hinged doors.
Interior
Depending on configuration, between seven and 15 people can fit inside an E-series passenger van, with plenty of room for all. Maximum cargo space is 237.8 cubic-feet for regular-length models, 278.3 for extended-length variants.
Performance & Handling
The E-Series is available with a variety of engine options. These range from a 225 horsepower, 4.6-liter V-8 to a burly 305 horsepower, 6.8-liter V-10. Cargo and cutaway models get the option of a 6.0-liter diesel V-8 that makes 235 horsepower and 440 pound-feet of torque. Diesel and V-10 models can tow up to 10,000 pounds. Handling, given the vehicle's size, is an abstract concept.
Safety
The E-series comes with standard with dual front airbags and four-wheel ABS. Roll stability control is standard on passenger vans and optional on cargo vans. A rear-view camera is available, as is an integrated trailer brake.
EPA Fuel Economy
NOT RATED
You'll Like
- Giant interior
- Passenger and cargo capacity
- Full-size truck towing capability
You Won't Like
- Spartan interior
- Simply massive size
- The gas bill
Sum Up
America's workhorse van
If You Like This Vehicle
- Chevrolet Express
- GMC Savana
- Freightliner Sprinter