2012 Ford E-Series in Bradenton, FL - $15,997

Since its introduction in the fall of 1960 as a 1961 model, the Ford E-Series has been one of the most versatile vehicles in the automaker's truck lineup. The Ford E-Series is available in the following body configurations: E150 (1/2 ton); E250 (3/4 ton) and E350 Super Duty (1-ton). Wagon (passenger) models are available in E150 and E350 body configurations. E250/E350 van buyers can choose between regular or Super Duty extended length body styles.

Engineered to meet the needs of a range of customers from small business owners to custom upfitters and larger commercial fleet operators – the 2012 Ford E-Series offers features and technologies to make work and travel more productive and convenient. America's best-selling full-size van for 33 years, Ford E-Series marks its 50th anniversary this year by offering premium technologies to better serve customers.

They include three industry-exclusive Ford Work Solutions innovations: An in-dash computer developed with Magneti Marelli and powered by Microsoft Auto that provides full high-speed Internet access via the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network and navigation by Garmin featuring available wireless accessories including a mouse and printer; Tool Link, a Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) asset-tracking system developed with DEWALT, the industry leader in professional power tools, and ThingMagic, the industry expert on embedded RFID technology; Tool Link enables customers to maintain a detailed real-time inventory of the tools or equipment stored in the vehicle; and Crew Chief, a fleet telematics and diagnostics system, that allows small fleet owners to efficiently manage their vehicles, quickly dispatch workers to job sites and keep detailed vehicle maintenance records.

For 2012, E-Series vans and wagons are available in a new exterior color – Steel Blue Metallic – and now include an audio input jack as standard equipment. Cast-aluminum wheels are now available as an option. For commercial applications a dual battery system replaces the auxiliary battery configuration.

Power choices for E-Series include Triton series: 4.6L V8, 5.4L V8 and 6.8L V10. Transmission options are a four-speed automatic overdrive and the five-speed TorqShift automatic with overdrive.

E-Series wagon models offer six different seating configurations, accommodating from seven to 15 occupants. The 11 and 14-passenger configurations feature an easy-access center aisle. Ford's AdvanceTrac vehicle stability control system with Roll Stability Control is standard on 12- and 15-passenger E350 Super Duty extended length wagons.

The E-Series van rides on a full-frame body-on-chassis platform. A re-engineered front suspension utilizes an all-new geometry and larger sway bars to provide a better stance and firmly plant the front end to the road. New valve technology on the rear shock absorbers further enhances the E-Series ride and handling while upgrades to the steering system provide a better on center feel and reduced steering efforts, adding to the feeling of confidence.

Inside, the driver is treated to a vast outward view of the road. Displays and controls are large and easy to read.

Dimensions & specifications

Regular van/wagon

Wheelbase: 138.0; overall length: 212.0; width: 79.3; height: 81.2 (E150), 83.4 (E250), 83.7 (E350)

Extended van/wagon

Wheelbase: 138.0; overall length: 232.0; width: 79.3; height: 84.6

All vehicle measurements are in inches.

Engine: 4.6L V8 -- 225 hp at 4,800 rpm and 286 lbs-ft of torque at 3,500 rpm; 5.4L V8 -- 255 hp at 4,500 rpm and 350 lbs-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm; 6.8L V10 -- 305 hp at 4,250 rpm and 420 lbs-ft of torque at 3,250 rpm

Transmission: four-speed automatic with overdrive, five-speed TorqShift automatic with tow/haul mode.

Cargo capacity: 275.1 cubic feet

Payload capacity: 4,090 lbs.

Towing capacity: 10,000 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, traction control, Advance Trac vehicle stability system, roll stability control, tire pressure monitors, and side-impact door beams.

Optional safety features include navigation system, SYNC communications system, rearview camera, SecuriLock anti-theft key, remote keyless entry, and reverse sensing system.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile

Powertrain: 5-year/60,000 mile

Corrosion: 5-year/unlimited

Roadside Assistance: 5-year/60,000 mile 24-hour

Pricing

The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2012 Ford E-Series van/wagon starts from $27,510 for the E-150 upto $35,620 for the E-350 extended wagon. Destination charges add $995.