2006 Ford Econoline: Road Test

Archived Review

2006 Ford Econoline 

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  • MSRP: $23,180 -$32,425
  • Invoice: $20,711 -$28,755

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Our road test for the 2006 Ford Econoline includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Ford Econoline from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Ford Econoline, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Ford Econoline help you decide if a 2006 Ford Econoline is right for you.

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ACCELERATION

E-150, 4.6 V8 E-350, V10 Class Average
3 3 2.7

Avoid the underpowered 225-hp V8. The 255-hp V8 is the best all-around choice for typical family use. The V10 and turbodiesel V8 are best for towing, but are otherwise more engine than most people need for daily use.

FUEL ECONOMY

E-150, 4.6 V8 E-350, V10 Class Average
2 2 3

Test V10 passenger model averaged 11.8 mpg. No opportunity to measure with other engines.

RIDE QUALITY

E-150, 4.6 V8 E-350, V10 Class Average
5 4 4.3

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 2.5

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. Stopping power OK but not up to 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 cargo vans. Turbodiesel V8 makes a mighty racket when worked hard.

CONTROLS

E-150, 4.6 V8 E-350, V10 Class Average
6 6 6.3

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 6.3

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 8.3

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 8.5

Econoline lags GM's full-size vans in quietness, and this Ford doesn't offer all-wheel drive or driver-side cargo doors. Unless you need maximum cargo space or frequently transport more than seven passengers, most minivans can do the same job of a full size, often with a lower cost and increased fuel economy.

Total Score

E-150, 4.6 V8 E-350, V10 Class Average
56 54 55.9

Total Score: 55

Scores for all Full-size Vans

Low Score
54
Average Score
55
High Score
59

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