For over 28 years, the Ford E-Series has been the favorite full-size vans of Americans. It has been satisfying the varied needs of buyers by supplying best of cargo vans, cutaways and passenger wagons. The E-Series receives a redesigned instrument panel that includes four new upfitter switches, optional factory-installed navigation as all new features for 2009. The van also gets V-8 engines that are E-85 capable and rear doors that swing out 172 degrees.
Engine and performance
The 2009 Ford E-Series offers three powerful engine options. The E-150 and E-250 models receive power from a standard 4.6-liter Triton V-8, while the E-350 comes standard with a 5.4-liter V-8. The 5.4-liter V-8 is also available optional on E-150 and E-250 models. A 6.8-liter Triton V-10 that delivers impressive 305 horsepower is optional on the E-350. The 4.6-liter V8 and 5.4-liter V8 engines are now E85 compatible.
The transmission choice comprises a four-speed automatic with overdrive mated to the 4.6-liter and 5.4-liter engines in vans and wagons. On cutaways, the 5.4L and 6.8L engines are teamed up with the five-speed TorqShift automatic transmission with tow/haul mode.
The Ford E-150 van tows up to 7,500 pounds, the Ford E-150 wagon 7,100 pounds, and the E-350 super duty and super duty extended wagon up to 10,000 pounds each, when properly equipped. An available class II/III/IV trailer tow package is available with an electric brake controller with tap-in capability, a seven-pin trailer wiring harness with a bumper bracket, and a relay system for backup and running lights.
A power take-off provision is offered as an option on the 6.8L cutaways and strip chassis with 158- and 176-inch wheelbases. It provides an access panel in the transmission housing to connect a PTO system.
Body and styling
Ford E-Series E-150 vans are regular length models with 138-inch wheelbase and 216.7 inches long overall. The E-250 and E-350 are offered in regular and extended length with maximum payload capacity of 3,170 to 4,090 pounds. All Ford E-Series vans are heavy-duty models featuring a gross vehicle weight of over 8,500 pounds. The E-150 entered the heavy duty class last year and increased its maximum payload by 70 percent. The E-Series offers four trim levels including Cargo, XL, XLT, and XLT Premium.
Ford E-Series vans offer seating options for seven to fifteen passengers. The regular-length passenger vans seat from 7 to 12 passengers, while extended-length vans can accommodate up to 15. An 11-passenger optional seating configuration is also offered on the extended-length XL and XLT.
The E-Series got an exterior upgrade last year, so the noticeable body change for this year is confined to rear doors that now open wider. The versatile E-Series full-size van offers even more functionality for 2009, with class-leading convenience features including integrated navigation system and SIRIUS Travel Link plus a redesigned instrument panel that includes four new upfitter switches.
The upgraded interiors with more comfortable seats and new tools are designed to help customers manage their fleets more efficiently, and serve them better.
Safety features
The 2009 Ford E-Series comes equipped with advanced safety features like power 4-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking system (ABS), airbags (driver and front-passenger), a dual-note horn, Belt-Minder safety reminder and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
Every Ford E-Series wagon now comes equipped with standard AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control (RSC). It’s the only stability control system with gyroscopic sensors measuring both vehicle roll and turning rates. Rear Back-up Camera System is also available optional on all E-Series models.
