2008 Ford Econoline
Based on analysis of 18 Econoline reviews and test drives.
Ford Econoline - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Ford Econoline ranks 3 out of 3 Passenger Vans. This ranking is based on our analysis of 18 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Econoline, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Ford Econoline, now more commonly called the E-Series, offers a good choice of powerful engines and a spacious interior, but its aging design has left it behind competitors in terms of safety or interior comfort.
The Ford E-Series vans have been around for more than four decades. The current design dates to 1996 and has undergone only minor changes since. This is an aging vehicle and some reviews suggest that it's dated. "What's New?" asks Automobile Magazine. "This year or this decade? Either way, nothing significant is new."
But the E-Series has a powerful choice of engines and a spacious interior. And the reviewer for The Auto Channel found that even an aging van has its charms. "I was impressed with the Econoline. It brought back great memories of our family traveling around the country in our van." The available trims on the E-Series break down into two categories -- those that are intended for use as passenger vans and those that are built for commercial use. The basic passenger vans are the E-150 XL and XLT trims, with seating for eight or seven passengers, depending on the configuration. The more powerful E-350 models are intended for commercial use carrying either cargo or up to 15 passengers (in the extended length model). Unfortunately, all models are short on safety features and lack the interior comfort of more state-of-the-art vehicles. If you're shopping for a passenger van, check out the GMC Savana.
- "These vans have been the full-size gold standard for decades, and continue to be so. Offered in commercial van and wagon editions, they're tough haulers that can serve a wide range of duties." -- Car and Driver
- "I'd like to pack a tent and camping gear in the back of an Econoline and make a similar six-week trip to see how it would hold out. We had a lot of fun with this van." -- The Auto Channel
- "If you don't absolutely need seating capacity for nine adults, or have a true commercial-grade use for the van, there's no good reason to burden yourself with driving such a large, unsophisticated vehicle, especially when prices quickly rise far north of $30,000." -- Automobile Magazine
Econoline Performance - 5.8 (Mediocre)
The 2008 Ford E-Series vans offer numerous powerful engines and adequate handling for its size. Check out our full Performance Review to read reviewers' opinions of performance of various E-Series vans. continue
Econoline Exterior - NA
Passenger vans like the 2008 Ford E-Series have never been on the cutting edge of automobile styling, and no reviewer really expects them to be. "Ford has made an attempt to keep the big van fresh with a new grille every few years," says Automobile Magazine, "but the utilitarian mission of the E-Series precludes any flair." Check out the Ford E-Series Photo Gallery to see the E-Series in black, or continue with our full Exterior Review to learn what the most recent design modifications have been. continue
Econoline Interior - 7.0 (Good)
The interior of the 2008 Ford E-Series is spacious, especially in the extended length model, and has several different seating arrangements available. But writers warn that you shouldn't expect to ride in style. Got to our Ford E-Series Photo Gallery to see the cabin's layout, or read our full Interior Review to learn more about the seating and capacity differences between the E-Series' Regular and Extended Length vans. continue
Econoline Safety - NA
The 2008 Ford E-Series has not been given front or side government crash tests, but the 2006 E-150 received four out of five stars for both driver and passenger protection in front impact crashes. Our Safety Review outlines what passive and active safety features are available with the 2008 E-Series. continue
Econoline Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2008 Ford Econoline reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2008 Ford E-Series is covered by a three-year or 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Check out our full Econoline Reliability Review for information. continue