2003 Ford Econoline Wagon/Van: Road Test
2003 Ford Econoline Wagon/Van ▼
- MSRP: $21,790 - $30,300
- Invoice: $19,155 - $26,473
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Our road test for the 2003 Ford Econoline Wagon/Van includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Ford Econoline Wagon/Van from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Ford Econoline Wagon/Van, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Ford Econoline Wagon/Van help you decide if a 2003 Ford Econoline Wagon/Van is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| E-150, 4.6 V8 | E-350, V10 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 2.9 |
The 5.4 V8 is the best all-round choice for typical family use. The V10 and turbodiesel V8 are best for towing, but more engine than most people need everyday.
FUEL ECONOMY
| E-150, 4.6 V8 | E-350, V10 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 |
We averaged a dismal 11.8 mpg with a test V10 passenger model. V6 and gas V8s are little thriftier. Turbodiesel is fairly frugal, but it would take a lot of miles before the fuel savings could make up for the lofty purchase price.
RIDE QUALITY
| E-150, 4.6 V8 | E-350, V10 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 4.4 |
Class-average but acceptable, though 4th- and 5th-row riders in extendeds are over the rear axle and feel most every bump.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| E-150, 4.6 V8 | E-350, V10 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 2.8 |
Like rivals, clumsy to park, a chore on twisty roads, easily buffeted by highway crosswinds. Wet-road traction poor without some weight over the rear wheels. Hard stops not that short or stable by minivan standards.
QUIETNESS
| E-150, 4.6 V8 | E-350, V10 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4 |
Noise levels acceptable in passenger models, fairly high in the less "upholstered" cargo vans. Turbodiesel V8 makes a mighty racket when worked hard.
CONTROLS
| E-150, 4.6 V8 | E-350, V10 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 |
Old-school big-truck design, but clear and convenient.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| E-150, 4.6 V8 | E-350, V10 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 |
Indifferent seats, ample space. Entry/exit not bad, but shorter folk might need side steps. Visibility astern OK in wagons, almost non-existent in vans without the optional side and rear windows. Bulky size demands care with parking and lane changes, especially in extendeds.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| E-150, 4.6 V8 | E-350, V10 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 6.8 |
Regulars seat up to 12, extendeds up to 15. All riders sit high yet have good head room, but not that much leg space. Entry/exit easy to 2nd row, tight and tricky to 3rd, 4th, and 5th rows.
CARGO ROOM
| E-150, 4.6 V8 | E-350, V10 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 10 |
Adequate to ample behind the rearmost seat in either body length, cavernous with seats removed, though that requires tedious wrenchwork and none of the seats fold for cargo.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| E-150, 4.6 V8 | E-350, V10 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 8.1 |
The demise of Dodge's Ram Wagon leaves only the Econoline and Chevy Express/GMC Savana among full-size passenger vans. GM's vans offer all-wheel drive and driver-side cargo doors this year, but otherwise, Econoline lags GM's offerings only in quietness. The same goes for cargo versions, where both Ford and GM eclipse Dodge's remaining Ram Van. Still, most minivans can do a full-sizer's job except when it comes to outright load space and towing capability.
Total Score
| E-150, 4.6 V8 | E-350, V10 | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 56 | 54 | 53 |
Total Score: 56
Scores for all Full-size Vans
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