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

What's New for the 2006 Ford E-Series Wagon?
AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control is added to all extended-length E-350 models for 2006, the ones most often used as airport shuttle vans and church buses. But we cannot help but wonder why this isn't included on all E-Series Wagons, for safety's sake. Other news for 2006 includes the loss of the elastic map straps from the sunvisors and the deletion of the door-ajar light from the instrument panel. All models, including the new XL trim level, receive the slim-line engine console cover this year, and the XLT gets a standard CD player. A cassette player is no longer offered. Models equipped with the 5.4-liter V8 or 6.8-liter V10 get a standard tow/haul mode for the transmission, while electronic throttle control is included on models with the 6.0-liter diesel and 6.8-liter V10. Diesel motors can also be outfitted with a heavy-duty 140-amp alternator for 2006.

Advantages of the 2006 Ford E-Series Wagon:

• Standard stability and roll control for the E-350 extended models
• Nicely styled for a large van
• Comfortable interior

Objections to the 2006 Ford E-Series Wagon:

• No stability and roll control system for models other than E-350 extended versions
• 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 vans, you must choose between Dodge, Ford and General Motors products. The 2005 Ford E-Series Wagon 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 its class, and is sized better than the Euro-influenced Dodge Sprinter for daily driving in North America. For personal use, the handsome E-Series Wagon, particularly in Chateau trim, deserves a look.