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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  Perfect Big SUV - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By Barry Alexander - June 28 - 1:57 pm

  This is the first Ford I have ever owned and, in fact, the first domestic car since I was a kid. We tested every large SUV from the QX 56, to the Denali and Sequoia. The Expedition was the best priced and best balanced of the entire bunch. The independent rear suspension does make a difference in handling in comparison to the GM Yukon/Tahoe variants. The interior is well thought out and, while there are some rough edges, no where near the interior disaster of the new Toyota Sequoia. If you have a large family and need to tow, this vehicle serves its mission well.

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  Big Red - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By HABEEB f. DUNN-EL - June 23 - 10:35 pm

  So far my driving experience has been fabulous. I like being up high in the dirver seat. I can see way down the road.

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  Giant step forward for Expedition! - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By jorlyn2 - May 17 - 10:00 am

  I bought as model year arrived. I owned a 97 model before. Had several problems early on that took a few months to correct. The main one was the auto power mirror problem. Took six months to get module (still not operating properly). Other than that, Ive enjoyed the vehicle.

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  OK I guess - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By RogB - May 11 - 1:59 pm

  After 3 Explorers, decided to move up altho I didnt need the size. Probably would have stayed with Explorer if there was power lift gate available. It is very comfortable but given its size it lacks any nimbleness. Pickup is only fair and stopping distance seems excessive. Just took our first long distance drive, 800 miles r/t and got 19.1 on highway which is better than any of the Explorers got. Dont use it for local drives so dont know about mileage. Like the fact that you can buy certain options as stand-alone like rear camera.

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  So Far So Good ! - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Adi Agarwal - April 28 - 2:00 am

  Bought the Expy last year (2003 5.4 Eddie Bauer w/ all safety features). So far so good. Has been back to the shop twice for some minor door rattle fixes. Other than that it has been a very pleasant experience. My kids and wife love it and we use it for long distance travel.

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  Good Vehicle, 8 years and running - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By Pat Smith - April 16 - 8:19 am

  At 83,000 miles the only work that has been done on the auto is throttle body cleaning at 80,000 miles and replacement of one coil at around 50,000 miles. Survived a strong hit from Ford Explorer with little damage and no one hurt. Mileage at 20mpg on highway which is good for a large SUV. Cannot get rid of it because it has been so very reliable and secure. Good driving position. Simple dash and plain styling and truck-like ride but big and safe. Rear back up sensor works great. Thanks.

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  Eddie Bauer not Jack Bauer - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By darth_stater - April 9 - 11:34 am

  Have had the vehicle for three years and it is really great. Nice fit and finish, solid construction and good performance. Gas mileage leaves to be desired and sometimes the braking seems a little scary. Moved to the big city now and must unload it for something a little more size appropriate.

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  Eddie Bauer - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By Stacie - March 31 - 12:10 pm

  Overall I love my Expedition. It is comfortable for all my family over long road trips. We travel 2-300 miles together through the mountains several times a week and everybody is comfortable. We have been rear-ended while parked and the vehicle took it and barely moved. My daughter and I were sitting in the back watching a movie when hit and where not injured at all. Great safety in rear-end collisions.I love the handling and ease of parking in crowded streets. The large mirrors help make this poosible.Overall this has been my favorite vehicle so far, except dealing with the car service for electrical issues and odd noises nobody can diagnose. Also has surged in traffic on its own. Dangerous!

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  The most reliable Ford Ive ever owned! - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Marz - March 24 - 2:49 pm

  I have never been a big fan of domestic vehicles due to previous problems. I have a 2003 Ford Expedition with FX4 package, 5.4L V8, captain chairs in the middle, 3rd row seating, skid plates and tube bars all factory parts. I currently have 120,000+ miles on this vehicle and never, not even once have I had any repairs done on this truck. It has truly been rock solid since the day that I bought it. My only complaint is the fuel economy but its expected. I have a large family so needed something this size. But all in all, this has been my fav SUV and wouldnt trade it for anything.

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  So far, so good - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By Kayemtee - March 19 - 4:52 pm

  In the first month of ownership, I have no regrets about my choice. I traded a 2003 Explorer with many problems at 55k miles so I am leasing this one. I enjoy the room (at 6 feet 2, I have lots of head room and extra seat travel both of which the Explorer lacked. The ride quality is excellent, much better than the 2008 Toyota Sequoia I tested, particulary over less than perfect pavement. Power is adaquate although I havent towed my boat yet. Turning circle is fine for such a large truck. Gas usage is not terrible given its 5625 lb. As per the trip computer, I an averaging 15.2 on mostly highway compared to 16 on the Explorer. 6 speed transmission very smooth and low revving.