Ford E-Series Van

Introduction

With its established presence in the transit segment, the E-Series Van doesn’t need much of an introduction. It is a time-tested workhorse, one that has stolen the heart of many customers if its sales figures are anything to go by. It has dominated the full-size van market while remaining mostly the same inside and out. It was updated twice, most recently in 2008 when it got a new grille design, steering and suspension. With no other major changes, it has built an enduring reputation as a dependable van with familiar characteristics and a trustable badge. It will be replaced by the Ford Transit starting 2005, in continuation with Ford’s modern shift.

What’s New for 2014?

The Ford E-Series has been the same van since 2008. It was the year when it received a styling update and became infused with better handling characteristics and a higher payload. This was made possible by the new chassis and suspension that increased its total weight as well as its carrying capacity.

It comes with a host of modern features such as Ford’s new voice assistant feature, Sync, as well as navigation, upfitter switches, and glove compartments on the passenger side. A backup camera is also available, as is a Crew Chief fleet management system.

Models and Features

The E-Series van is available in 11 different models, depending on the payload, passenger capacity, powertrain and wheelbase. The commercial E-150 starts off the model lineup with its 4.6L V8 while the E-350 wraps things up with a 6.8L V10L petrol. In total, there are three engine options.

It is available in two different door configurations-a sliding door and 40/60 split hinged doors, both located on the passengers’ side.

The dashboard of the van is very distinct, with a very modern appeal to it. Ford’s Sync system links up with your phone via Bluetooth and lets you use voice commands or steering wheel-mounted controls to perform simple tasks. The in-dash board is relatively ample at 6.5 inches and interface easy to use. You also get vinyl upholstery for passenger seats and a CD audio system. The latter is an option, with others being side and rear door trim panels, power mirrors, dashboard sound absorber, rear parking aid, rearview camera, satellite radio, navigation and a 110-power outlet.

Options and Packages

With a base model that could be adapted to serve different kinds of needs, the Ecoline Series van has proved to be very versatile. There are XL and commercial trims for business purposes and XLT and residential trims for passenger use. The Crew Chief system is an option that makes fleet management easier by sharing track usage remotely to a computer device. The Crew Van Packages includes a 3-passenger seat at the rear and a divider for passenger and cargo compartments

The cargo area can be outfitted to serve different storage needs. The capacities of the van can be enhanced with two heavy-duty batteries and a trailer towing package. Towing experience is improved by an integrated electronic brake controller.

Under the Hood

The E-150 is the first in the line with the standard having a 4.6L V8 that churns out 255hp and a torque of 286 lbs-ft. For more power you can opt for the 5.4L V8 that adds 30hp and increases the torque to 350 lb-ft. Both have a four-speed transmission and a rear-wheel drive configuration. The E-250 shares a similar powertrain, with the more powerful engine being the base model for the E-350. The Extended version is equipped with a larger 6.8L V10 that manages 305hp and 420lb-ft of torque.

Fuel Economy

It’s hard to have the economy bar set high for full-size vans, given the demands they are meant to satisfy. That said, the 4.6L is the surprisingly, not the most efficient of the three with its 10mpg city/13mpg highway rating. The 5.4L fairs better with its 12mpg city/16 highway. The V10 is the thirstiest with a disappointing 10/13mpg city/hwy rating. It can however, be reconfigured to use compressed natural gas as a power source.

Safety Ratings and Technology

The E-Series van is well equipped with safety features. Telescopic trailer tow mirrors give you a wide field of view to make the towing experience easier. A reverse sensing system takes the hustle out of reverse movements. A backup camera that has grown to become a standard in smaller cars is also included, adding even more convenience. An integrated brake controller makes stopping this big vehicle less daunting while AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control improves its grip on the road. There is a tire-pressure monitoring system available as well. Dual front airbags complete the safety features list. Rear seat side curtains are missing, and are not among the options.

The E-series van is not particularly fun to drive. While the few improvements in the dash design might have given it a more charming interior, the ride quality is nothing to marvel about. However, the driving dynamics have been good ever since the chassis design and suspension system was revised. It is more confident on the road and is always firmly planted even at moderately higher speeds. The engines offer enough pulling power and never struggle when subjected to their maximum payloads. The 6.8L offers enough punch to pull over 10, 000lbs without hesitation.

Conclusion

It will be sad to see the Ecoline Series discontinued, but the future holds promise. The Ford Transit is a capable replacement in its own right, and in many markets, it has already established itself as the ultimate full-size van. It is a drastic improvement when you delve into the specifics, and should help to continue Ford’s popularity in this segment.

This change was inevitable. While Ford subscribed to the idea that something not broken should not be fixed, the E-Series was falling behind the times with its aging design, unimpressive driving dynamics and limited utility. The Ford Transit will correct most of these shortcomings while still offering the same level of dependability that the E-Series took years to build.

For those who desire the services of a big van, Ford’s Ecoline remains one of the best options thanks to its competitive pricing and demonstrated reliability. The availability of different models makes it possible to pick the van that serves your particular needs.