Big and brawny, totally dedicated to towing and hauling, carrying a cavernous 237.8-cubic-foot cargo capacity (278.6 cubic feet with the passenger seat removed), the 2012 Ford E-Series E-350 Super Duty remains a solid choice for a full-size, 1-ton cargo van.
Sporting only 2 vinyl captain’s chairs, tilt-wheel steering, air conditioning and a 2-speaker AM/FM audio setup, this brute doesn’t offer a lot of creature comforts, but fear not—all the fancy stuff can be added as optional equipment.
Said options include cruise control, cloth upholstery, full power accessories, 16-inch alloy wheels, a 6-speaker single-CD player with satellite radio and Sync voice-activated communications, audio and, if desired, hard-drive-based navigation. Most options are delivered either as part of a package or in standalone form.
For the working-class hero, Ford’s popular Work Solutions packages offers a dash-mounted, Internet-ready computer for remote file retrieval and tool inventory as well as the Crew Chief vehicle tracking system, which monitors vehicle idle time, maintenance, location and speed. Finally, customizable upfitter switches, nearly unlimited cargo management systems, a towing package and an integrated trailer brake controller can also be added to the E-Series E-350.
Standard power for the rear-wheel-drive-only (RWD) E-Series E-350 Super Duty is a peppy Flex-Fuel (FFV) 5.4-liter V8 that’s managed by a 4-speed automatic transmission to put out 255 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. A 5-speed automatic is also available with this hefty V8, while this 1-ton heavy hauler can be tricked out to tow up to 9,000 pounds. Alas, mileage, at least with the 4-speed automatic, is a distressing 12 mpg city/16 highway. This workman-like V8 can also be converted to CNG/LPG (Compressed Natural gas/Liquid Propane Gas) operation for a greener working environment.
For the truly power-needy, a 6.8-liter V10 powerplant combines with the standard 5-speed automatic transmission (with tow/haul mode) for 305 hp and a whopping 420 lb-ft of torque. Look for up to 10,000 pounds of towing, with the proper equipment, including an available 4.1 rear axle ratio, while mileage drops to 10/14.
Finally, besides sheer bulk, traditional standard safety features aboard the 2012 E-Series E-350 Super Duty include 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control and a post-collision safety system. Optional safety and security features include a rear-view camera and rear parking sensors, as well as Ford’s E-Guard cargo protection system and a passive remote antitheft alarm.
