2006 Ford E-Series Van New Car Buyer's Guide

What's New for the 2006 Ford E-Series Van?
Ford's full-size work van continues mostly unchanged for 2006. The E-Series Van loses the elastic map straps on the sunvisors and the door ajar light from the instrument panel, but the slim-line engine cover is now standard on all versions. E-150 and E-250 models with the Trailer Tow Prep or Trailer Tow Packages have a standard transmission oil cooler, and E-Series vans equipped with the optional 6.0-liter diesel engine can be outfitted with a heavy-duty 140-amp alternator. If the upgrade five-speed automatic transmission is selected, electronic throttle control is included. Vans destined for conversion into RVs comes with a standard CD player for 2006.

Advantages of the 2006 Ford E-Series Van:

• Lots of utilitarian rack/bin packages from which to choose
• Very good payload ratings
• Many configurations from which to select

Objections to the 2006 Ford E-Series Van:

• E-350 Wagon's standard stability and roll control system is not available
• Oldest full-size van on the market
• Engines not as powerful as those in GM vans
• Not as large inside as Dodge Sprinter

Editor's Advice:
When it comes to full-size cargo vans, you must choose between Dodge, Ford and General Motors products. The 2006 Ford E-Series Van does not fare terribly well matched up against the competition from General Motors, suffering from greater age and less powerful engine choices. However, the Ford offers nicer exterior styling than anything in the commercial class, and is sized better than the Euro-influenced Dodge Sprinter for daily driving in North America. For commercial use, the E-Series Van is a genuine workhorse, but not our top pick.