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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  Good AND BAD - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Rob K. - March 21 - 11:45 am

  POSITIVES: Great room for a family of 4 or 5. Plenty of luggage room for those long family trips. Eddie Bauers look great with the gold underpackage with pretty much any body color. NEGATIVES: Whats up with the brake dust? Wow, lets not skimp on quality brake pads. Also, middle seat in second row should recline with outside passenger seats. Third row seating leather has come unattached and not sure how to have it fixed. Looks crappy like that. Gas mileage is garbage but what can you expect from that large of a vehicle. The a/c fan inside the dash makes a light squealing sounds periodically and Im sure Ford wont hear it to fix it.

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  Great Car - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By mm57553 - February 27 - 1:05 pm

  I traded in my Explorer for the new Expedition. So far it has proven to be a great car. The improvements made to the 07 are great, but there could be more. The adjustable foot pedals are nice, but I wish it had a telescoping steering wheel. It doesnt help me to reach the pedals if I cant reach the steering wheel. I can also not figure out why a cargo net is still not available. I have opened the liftgate several times only to have groceries roll out. Yes, you can open just the top, but it is nearly impossible to reach anything in the cargo area that way. I would highly recommend the power liftgate and convenience package, which includes reverse sensors.

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  2003 Expedition EB 4x4 - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By david00army - February 18 - 12:09 pm

  I love the truck however best gas mileage I can get with cruise control at 70 mph is 16 mpg. But it is very nice for long trips quite and living in the Netherlands I get a lot of looks because it is one of the biggest vehicles on the road in Europe besides the delivery trucks. However for the truck being a 2003 I still get people coming up and saying what a very nice looking vehicle so for my family counting me there are 6 and i still have room for 2 more so this room and comfort is unmatched.

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  The 07 Expedition has upd the ante - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By Fordaholic - February 9 - 12:39 am

  Ive leased a new Expedition every 3 years for the last 12 years. The 04 model was Fords first real effort to improve the overall performance and quality. However, the 07 is outstanding. The ride is the most significant change. Also, the availability of options is very impressive. I now have heated & AC seats, and a remote up/down rear lift gate. The power rear folding seats are worth their weight in gold and the center console shifter is far more convenient. The car has a firmer, tighter, and more stable ride. Allegedly the car has thicker windows and noise suppression metal. I definitely believe its true. The interior is much quieter while driving than the 04 model.

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  99 one owner.... - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By UPCRAWFISH - January 20 - 11:46 am

  Generally good vehicle. No issues until past month.. Disc brakes started squeal. Time to change pads.. Get in and find that the caliper pistons, 1 is broken and not applying pads and 2nd is cracked. (Original - PLASTIC piston) A $100 job for pads turned into $500 for pads/calipers(2), rotors. While under the car, found one of the link for anti-sway bar broke/missing - 2nd cracked... ADD $165...

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  They got almost everything right. - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By wood - January 15 - 7:40 pm

  I purchased the Limited edition with every option and was the first to receive at the dealership in December. The car has come a long way from the previous edition. The interior just as many amenities as my $90,000 Mercedes. DVD entertainment with wireless headphones is great for the kids. Plenty of space. Electric 3rd row folding seats and electric tailgate are more important to me than I thought. Seats are very comfortable. Engine is smooth shifting. Plenty of cupholders and interior space. On 20 inch wheels it rides fantastic at 75 mph. The only thing I still would want is more hp under the hood. Something closer to 400 would have put this on par with anything out there.

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  Sweet beast - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By MacDaddyMD - December 31 - 10:00 am

  Leaps and bounds above prior Expeditions. Easily matches comfort with Sequoia. Not as powerfiul as it oughta be, but fit, finish, styling and extras are great. Best suspension in this class. Very atractive, fun, safe and easy to drive. Highly recommended!

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  Surprised at some of the poor ratings - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By jpw1138 - December 29 - 12:57 pm

  I guess I am lucky, but the only thing I have had to repair on this vehicle since purchased new were the actuators on the power door locks. Other than that, it has never seen the shop except for routine maintenance. I am sort of sorry I paid for the extended warranty because I dont think it is likely that I will need it. Very reliable car.

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  Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By Stan - December 1 - 10:05 am

  I was looking for a large SUV with a flat cargo bed without any gaps such as the 2005 Tahoe. The brochure of the 2007 Expedition showed such a cargo area, but when the truck arrived, I found a large gap on the floor between the second row seats and the rest of the back when everything was folded down. I was about to void the purchase agreement, when the dealer agreed to have a custom flap fabricated to cover this gap. I am shocked that Ford would misrepresent the product in their brochure. Hence the poor rating for interior design.

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  Ford XLS 2004 - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By LawUser - November 26 - 2:00 am

  Took the truck with a lease and traded my 91 Bronco in for it with 2500 down. Got kinda hammered with the payments but I needed soemthing new and something that had lots of space inside since I have a large family of 5 to move around. Truck runs really well and handles snow as well as can be expected. It sometimes wants to bring the backend around when turning in the snow but I think this is due to the length and me driving a Bronco for all the years I did. Just gotta get used to it. Gas mileage is pretty low, 28 gallon tank and I get about 260 miles to the tank. Better than my Bronco so I enjoy it. LOL Overall a nice truck