This isPART TWOof our four part truck, van, and SUV buyer's guide. It covers automakers from Ford to Jeep.

PART ONE, which covers automakers from Acura to Dodge, can be found HERE.

PART THREE, which covers automakers from Kia to Mitsubishi, can be found HERE.

PART FOUR, which covers automakers from Nissan to Volvo, can be found HERE.

STAR RATINGS:

Beats Walking	*
For Your Neighbors	**
Right On The Money	***
Fuel For Your Soul	****
Drive Before You Die	*****

FordE-Series

BASE PRICE RANGE:$26,955-$35,825

BODY TYPE:Van

WHAT'S NEW:The rarely revised E-Series received a substantial update for 2009 that included numerous cosmetic tweaks to the interior and a host of comfort, convenience, and technology features. These include a navigation system, rear backup camera, rear-seat entertainment, extra power ports, new glovebox, and Ford's exclusive Work Solutions system. The 2011 model carries over without any major changes.

COOL FACT:The E-Series vans celebrate their 50th year in 2011.

SUM UP:America's workhorse van. ***

2011-ford-e-series-vans-front-view-towing

2011 Ford E-Series
Base Engine	4.6L/225-hp SOHC V-8
Optional Engine	5.4L/255-hp SOHC V-8; 6.8L/305-hp SOHC V-10
Drivetrain	Front engine, RWD, 4A/5A
0-60 MPH	9.0-15.0 sec*
Seats/Foldway	2-15/none
EPA city/hwy fuel econ	Not rated
Basic warranty	3 yrs/36,000 miles
Safety	ABS: S; Stab: S; Trac: S; Airbags: 2
*Estimated

Ford Edge

BASE PRICE RANGE:$27,995-$38,845

BODY TYPE:SUV

WHAT'S NEW:Redesigned for 2011, the Edge offers more power and fuel efficiency than before. Front styling has been revised to integrate a giant three-bar chrome grille darkened for Sport models. That trim receives the Mustang's 305-hp, 3.7L V-6; all others get a 285-hp, 3.5L V-6. Ford is also launching its next-gen Sync system, called MyFord, in the Sport model.

LOOK FOR:A 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder engine to join the Edge lineup early in 2011.

SUM UP:Heavyweight of midsize crossovers. ***1/2

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