Overview & Reviews

The Ford Expedition is a full-size sport-utility vehicle based on Ford's popular full-size pickup truck platform. With rear- or four-wheel drive and seating for as many as nine adults, the Expedition has long been on the short list of vehicle choices for full-size families as well as anyone who needs the combination of versatility and grunt provided by a large SUV.

Big, tall and heavy, the Ford Expedition is every inch a truck, its large body wrapped around a comfortable and spacious cabin. The latest generation of the Expedition doesn't feel as cumbersome to drive as its extravagant dimensions and hefty weight suggest, but you'll still be reminded of just how full-size the Expedition is at the gas pump. In many cases, a large crossover SUV would be a better new or used vehicle choice given the advantages in fuel economy, handling and comfort. And if you really need something big and tow-worthy, other traditional SUVs like the Chevy Suburban are also worth a look.

Current Ford Expedition
The current Ford Expedition is offered in two lengths -- standard and EL -- and three trim levels: XLT, Limited and King Ranch. The EL has a 12-inch longer wheelbase and nearly 15 inches of additional overall length. The biggest reasons to consider the EL are the massive cargo space behind the third-row seat (more than twice that of the standard Expedition) and the longer rear doors that ease entry into the third row.

All Expeditions are powered by a 5.4-liter V8 that produces 310 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. As with most full-size SUVs, the Expedition is offered with a choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.

The well-equipped XLT comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, air-conditioning, a power driver seat, power-adjustable pedals, a sliding and reclining 40/20/40-split second-row seat, Ford's voice-operated Sync system, Bluetooth and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio, an iPod/USB interface and rear audio controls. Limited highlights include 20-inch polished wheels, a rearview camera, a power liftgate and a leather-lined, truly luxurious interior. The King Ranch adds special two-tone paint, unique wheels, upgraded leather upholstery and wood accents. Options include a load-leveling rear suspension, navigation, heated and cooled seats and a rear-seat entertainment system.

The Ford Expedition features fold-flat second-row seats as well as available power-folding third-row seatbacks that together create a wide, flat cargo floor. Families with infants will appreciate the sliding center position of the second-row seat, which can bring a child in a safety seat up to 11 inches closer to the front-seat passengers.

In reviews we've found Ford's full-size SUV pleasant to drive for a big SUV thanks to precise steering and a comfortable ride quality. In most situations, the 5.4-liter V8 provides decent performance. Take on a full load of passengers and cargo or hitch up a large trailer, however, and the engine's weakness becomes all too apparent. Shoppers who expect to regularly fill the cabin with passengers and/or tow heavy loads might want to consider the Ford's few rivals, which offer more available power.

Used Ford Expedition Models
The current, third-generation Ford Expedition is the product of a major refresh conducted for 2007. However, whereas previous-generation Expeditions could hold up to nine passengers, the current generation holds only eight, due to standard front bucket seats. Changes have been minimal; the most notable occurred for 2009 when the Expedition got Ford's Sync multimedia voice control system, and the following year, when trailer sway control was added.

The second-generation Ford Expedition was introduced for the 2003 model year. Compared to the current generation, the styling was different and a less stiff chassis resided underneath. Ride and handling were not as good, and the standard automatic transmission had only four gears. There were also fewer available features, including three-row side curtain airbags. However, compared to its predecessor, this Expedition was a vast improvement -- specifically in regards to driving dynamics, thanks to its independent rear suspension. It was also the first SUV to offer power fold-into-the-floor rear seats, a feature that its General Motors rivals wouldn't receive for more than a decade.

Engines for this second-generation model consisted of a 232-hp 4.6-liter V8 and a 260-hp 5.4-liter V8. For 2005, Ford dropped the smaller engine and increased the 5.4-liter V8's output to 300 hp. The model line eventually proliferated from four trim levels at its debut (including an off-road version called FX4) to six for 2006, including the opulent, western-themed King Ranch edition. Safety-minded shoppers should know that all years of this generation came with stability control, with tire-pressure monitors becoming available with the 2004 models.

In reviews, we thought this Expedition competed favorably with its contemporary competitors from General Motors, Nissan and Toyota. If there was one area of contention -- especially in pre-'05 models -- it was a lack of muscle. On the whole, though, this edition of Ford's big SUV provided solid handling for a vehicle of its size. It still felt like a big SUV, but the steering was decently weighted and body roll was well controlled around turns. The ride could be a tad harsh on rough roads, but overall, it was a comfortable cruiser.

Launched for the 1997 model year, the original Ford Expedition was met with heaps of praise. Its dimensions fell between those of the short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase versions of the GM sport-utilities at the time, enabling it to both accommodate a third-row seat and fit inside a normal garage, albeit tightly. With a front bench seat, it could carry up to nine passengers.

The first-generation Ford Expedition came in just two trim levels: XLT and the more luxurious, two-tone Eddie Bauer. Both featured interior architecture that was nearly identical to the F-Series pickup, which offered good ergonomics but was rendered in lamentable materials. Its 215-hp 4.6-liter and 230-hp 5.4-liter V8 engines also could not keep up with the stronger motors from its primary competitors, a deficiency that was addressed in 1999 with a horsepower bump for both engines, of 25 and 30, respectively.

User Reviews:

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  Excellent SUV - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By stlouisblues - February 19 - 2:00 am

  I am amazed with the negative comments posted here. This 1999 Expedition is my second Expedition. I love it. Never had any problem with it. My kids love it. It is the most secured and solid truck. Rain, heat, snow or ice, it just keeps on going without any trouble. I am seriously thinking about trading in my current Expedition for the newest Expedition currently on the market.......

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  Good truck for the money - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By kimco - February 19 - 2:00 am

  When our lease for our Tahoe was up we wanted to buy our next SUV. For the money the Exp was the best bet. Compaired to the Tahoe it didnt match up. But for the money we cant beat it. I wish it got better gas mileage. I only get 13 city/hwy. If money was not a option I would have another Tahoe.

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  2002 Expedition 4x4 - 2002 Ford Expedition
  By drdbouquet - February 18 - 2:00 am

  This is my 3rd Expedition, I owned a 1997, 1999,2002 and in 2 days I am picking up a 2004 Expedition, which will be our 4th. I just love it and my husband prefers this vehicle to the Explorer. I love that I sit high and can carry anything in the back, I can just about haul anything. I drive some distance to work and I am always comfortable.I have never had a problem with any of them,other than Goodyear tires, they dont last.

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  Good/Bad - 1997 Ford Expedition
  By Silat - February 17 - 2:00 am

  Bought used w/33000 miles. Replaced engine at 107000. All kinds of minor electrical problems. Replaced heater core. Runs/rides great on highway. Snow no problem. Great visibility 360 degrees. Wife loves it.

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  Worth Every Penny - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By lovemySUV - February 13 - 2:00 am

  Bought used 47000 miles, now has over 66000 miles. Have had no problems. Has been through many snow storms and drives very well in them. Best Truck on the road.

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  My family bought 21 Fords but no more! - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By MyLastFord - February 10 - 2:00 am

  I purchased a 1999 FORD Expedition4X4. At 7500 miles the transmission began to slip. Parkway Ford in WS,NC couldnt keep it from slipping. Because of our loyalty for 26 years, they gave me a KILLER! deal on a 2000 Eddie Bauer 4X4. Thank God I purchased the extended warranty. At 53000 miles the engine went bad. After replacement, I attempted to trade for another Eddie Bauer 4X4 which would have been my familys 22nd Ford. You can imagine my suprise when they only offered $19,000 for trade in. Lucky for me the local Chevy dealership gave me $4,500 more to purchase my first GM product. Shame on you FORD & Parkway for not honoring a loyal customer.

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  Dont make my Mistake - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By No Ford - February 7 - 2:00 am

  At 55,000 miles we had a major transmission problem and simultaneously the enginge blew! During the next 10,000 miles it has been in the shop more days than out. It currently sits in the shop to have $2,000+ of transmission repairs completed. Ford could care less and has done nothing to help compsenate after persistant follow- up on my part. I strongly urge careful consideration and research prior to purchase of a Ford product.

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  BEST SUV ON THE ROAD - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By james morris - February 5 - 10:00 am

  EVERYTHING ABOUT IT IS STYLED RIGHT AND EXTREMELY COMFORTABLE. REAR ROW SEATS ARE ROOMY AND COMFORTABLE. GAS MILEAGE FOR SUCH A LARGE VEHICLE IS AS EXPECTED. SURVIVEABILITY IN AN ACCIDENT IS STRONG POINT FOR OWNING.

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  NICE for the PRICE!! - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By 1stsuv - February 5 - 10:00 am

  luv the truck. interior stylin has being my 1st, pot holes look out. I am crashing curbs and bruisin the pavement of every major downtown street. overall handling and performance is excellent which goes contrary to most editorial opinions. this monster for his size can sway and swerve his way through "S" turns almost like my jetta v6. heard lot of people complain about engine lag going up hill -- use the over drive (OD) button. it will get you up and over most inclines in half the time.

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  expedition - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By maryapple - February 4 - 2:00 am

  i have had this car for some time its not to bad.small BIGGER IS BETTER.little things break in the car like the handle. the gass needs to be better for trips .like from tampa to wesley chappel 10 times a week...