Ford Van

Overview

Ford Van is a full-size MPV which was launched in the year 1961 as Ford E-Series which is a line up of extended sized vehicles including both cargo and passenger. This E-Series has its own distinctive identity. Also, it has been considered as best selling full-sized van by Americans since 1980. This big size van went through modification phase in its exterior designing for the 1992 model year. Later on in March 2007, its much prettier face was unveiled at the New York Auto Show with completely redesigned front façade and better handling and payload aspects. Indeed, this van comes fitted with 4.6-litre V8 engine under the hood accompanied with 4-speed automatic transmission supporting flex fuel for E-150 Club Wagon variant available for Philippines residents. All these integrated features and others created a long glorious history for E-Series and it continues for the same representing the modern and sophisticated van product to the occupants. The power-train it has received, enables the van to churn out maximum power output of 225 Hp at 4800 rpm along with the peak torque of 388 Nm. Further choice of selecting the fuel makes this large van fuel economic and a caring friend for your pocket. Its maximum passengers loading capacity (seven passengers) in ultimate comfort makes the Ford Van Express a perfect pick. Its front façade starts off in signature and dynamic Ford grille pattern in silver tint with embedded company insignia atop. Moreover, the metallic cladding underneath gives it a sturdy protective appearance. Rear and two lateral side has the gate openings to the inside cabin for easy hauling of the cargo and passengers seat in the cockpit. The cockpit's entire tone is embraced in black/gray colour with 2-spoked steering wheel and plenty of mini storage cabins. With just 2 passengers seating capacity, remaining space left for the cargo area makes it a spacious hauler.

For effective braking and control over the vehicle, heavy duty transmission and improvised suspension are fitted inside to slow down the vehicle as soon you apply the brakes. All wheels have been appointed with disc brakes alongside which works ABS and RSCTM (Roll Stability Control), traction control, Advance Trac, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), yaw control to keep track on van's speed and ensure smooth passage.

Mileage and Fuel economy

This V8 engine equipped within the vehicle supporting flex fuel can run on E85 (85% ethanol/15% gasoline), gasoline or any combination of the two. This way you get the real power of selecting the right fuel pump resulting in delivering mileage count of about 5.5 kmpl to 7.3 kmpl on an average which is not a bad count for vehicle of this size.

Power

Surging forward putting less efforts is possible due to powerful EFI 4.6-litre V8 engine equipped under the hood of Ford Van. This massive engine unit makes the vehicle capable of generating a power output of 225 hp at 4800 rpm along with the peak torque of 388 Nm.

Acceleration & Pickup

Though it is a passenger vehicle manufactured to weigh more number of occupants in the cabin, it is not made to give outstanding pick numbers as the main motif. However, packed with 4.6-litre flex fuel unit, Ford Van delivers decent pick up numbers and can accelerate from naught to 100 km/hr in 12 seconds.

Exterior

Consolidating an innovative look with dynamic and strong structure, the aesthetics of Ford Van fits the modern concept of a passenger caravan. Larger and wider, the stylish design of front facade grille conveys the feeling of power and dynamism which is an immense improved access to the engine section. Further, this van is provided with one large entry/exit gate on the back side for easy passage and hauling of cargo. Besides, two individual doors are there for entry to cockpit locating driver's and front passenger's seat. The black plastic cladding on the lower front bumper and sideways protects it from getting scratched and direct hit to the under hood engine part in accidental cases. The side mirrors and door handles are kept in black colour to define them separately from the overall layout of the van. Coming to the rear profile, you can address tail lights placed on the edge in rectangular shape acting as a safety aspect for the rear followers. Overall, the designing of the Ford Van is kept plain with added short detailing in the form of creases and windscreen so that passengers sitting inside can have outer look.

Exterior Measurements

Being a spacious vehicle, Ford Van embraces large dimensions for its occupants. The overall dimensions measure 5504 mm x 2016 mm x 2092 mm (L x W x H). These extended proportions for the vehicle gives insight about plenty of interior space it can offer to its prospective buyers.

Interior

With exceptional comfort, elegance and functionality, the Ford Van is undoubtedly one of the most decent vocations to work and for family outings. The carriage of passenger is combined with the functionality, economy and practicality which makes this van the leader in its class in Philippines and other countries. This passenger van offers flexible seating configuration for several passengers besides ergonomically designed cockpit. The functional cabin space gives you premium feel in gray and black color inserts on steering, shift knob, meters, AC dial and ventilation equipments. Ergonomically placed controls on dashboard make it easy to reach and operate functions including centre console, integrated stereo, touch screen and two-spoked steering wheel. Comprising a contented design, the Ford Van easily conveys strength, determination while providing comfort, safety and productivity to its occupants.

Interior Comfort

Installed with moderate equipments, this full size van makes your travel full of comfort and convenience. Including both sides cockpit gate, rear passenger gate, cup holder at the console, water bottle cabinet at the console, map lamp and ceiling lamp this van becomes a suitable practical choice in the segment. The air conditioning vents set at different locations regulates the temperature inside for all the passengers irrespective of the cabin seated. Large rear passenger gate opens wide to make it easy for occupants to board and exit. Moreover, to get information about fuel economy, speed, fuel and others, information dials are rightly set in accordance with the steering column and captain seat for driver's assistance.

Interior Measurements

Since it is a full-size van, it offers more seating area for occupants rather than focusing on the boot cabin space. Still, it features various utility nuts that can house your small handy things in affix storage racks and holders.

Engine and Performance

Engine unit V8 and four-speed automatic transmission equipped as standard in the Ford Van accelerates the pick up numbers. Packed under the hood is best-fit fuel efficient flex fuel 4.6-litre V8 engine this van generates maximum power output of 225 hp at 4800 rpm along with the peak torque of about 388 Nm. This combination of engine and automatic gearbox gives sufficient performance by rotating at lower speed and less sound driving at high speeds.

Stereo and Accessories

Since it is A VAN, it is understandable that it won't come packed with high-tech infotainment and stereo features. The purpose of the vehicle is to provide extra spare for the occupants rather than focusing on amusement factor. Still, some equipments and accessories comes fitted as standard making your life easy on-board. Intelligent key easily lock and unlock doors without manual inserting it. Small display screen located on the dashboard helps you to navigate strange places and reach desired location without any difficulty. CD/MP3 player, AM/FM, radio and USB port completes the tech segment of this van allowing you to refresh yourself listening to the favourite music. Furthermore, providing necessary information to driver for assistance can be regulated via Fine Vision Meter and vehicle information display panel.

Wheels

Loading more weight demands more stability of the vehicle which is being taken care of by 16-inch wheels which come fitted as standard underneath.

Braking and Handling

The Ford Van lets you to travel with maximum peace of mind. It offers the most sophisticated cutting-edge technologies that can be operated simply from the passenger compartment. The braking system of this van comprises of AdvanceTrac with RSCTM (Roll Stability Control) that works in combination of antilock braking system (ABS), traction control and yaw control to keep the vehicle on track and modify engine power by applying appropriate brake power to all the wheels individually. Moreover, this van offers dynamic suspension system including Twin I-Beam front suspension that absorbs maximum intensity of shock waves driving in rugged terrains.

Safety and Security

Talking about the safety aspect, Ford Van is specifically made in crumple zone body concept that absorbs shock and attenuate accidental damage. Looking after the rear moving vehicle for clear visibility and extended vision is easy through convex side rear-view mirrors. More weight, more stability is what vehicle demands especially while driving through tough course. For the same, several braking mechanisms are provided including improvised chassis and suspension, RSCTM (Roll Stability Control), traction control, Advance Trac, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), yaw control and much more.

Pros

• Efficient engine performance
• Able to carry 7-passengers spaciously

Cons

• Interior material quality not unto the mark
• Jaded handling