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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Love it - 2003 Ford Expedition
By Mcke - September 4 - 10:00 amI am spoiled by my car. I love the new look of the 2003, the a/c seats, the dvd player, and the easy steering. It has more luxuries that I didnt know I needed. :) Very happy. Jenny
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Love this SUV - 2004 Ford Expedition
By teacher7 - September 4 - 10:00 amThis truck has been a joy to drive. Feels very safe and easier to park than my 97 explorer. Power fold down seats are awesome!
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Above 75,000 plan on some problems - 2001 Ford Expedition
By Brian - September 3 - 1:49 pmA very safe and roomy SUV. Never have to worry when it snows, good pick up from a stop. About 14-16 MPG, can see 19 on a long trip. In general a well built SUV for a domestic.
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Best SUV - 2004 Ford Expedition
By Rfiorilo - August 29 - 2:00 amBest Suv Ive tested/owned, lots of room, very comfortable, ride is very smooth. Interior well thought, best 3rd seat on the market. best looking SUV in its class, lots of standard extras.
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A good SUV - 2000 Ford Expedition
By DS - August 28 - 9:25 amThe Expedition is a great truck for traveling with the family. The gas mileage makes it an expensive daily commuter. The major problems I have had with this truck are blown spark plugs and the emergency brake. So far I have repaired three spark plugs and replaced three coil packs. Two in my driveway and one in the Appellation Mountains behind a parts store. All repairs where with the Helicoil save a thread kit 5334-14 and a little quick set hi temp lock tight. It takes about an hour for the repair and $40. So far I have about 30K to 40K on the repairs. The emergency brake repair parts are a dealer item only and are sold as a complete kit. The other problems where from normal wear and tear.
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Great Vehicle - 1999 Ford Expedition
By DK - August 26 - 2:00 amI have had it 3 1/2 years and have 51,000 miles on it and have had ZERO problems.The vehicle averages about 16mpg in the city and 20mpg on the highway.It is the best vehicle Ive ever owned.
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Eddie - 1999 Ford Expedition
By azrunner - August 26 - 2:00 amLove it, big, fun, gas hog
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Fantastic Vehicle! - 2010 Ford Expedition
By RoadWarrior - August 25 - 9:00 pmThis SUV has it all. Ford has surpassed any other SUV that I have looked at. I bought this for my wife as she was in need for a new vehicle She has been driving a Dodge Grand Caravan 25th Anniversary SXT, which doesnt even hold a candle to this car. I dont know were to start? The new contoured look with the power running boards? The air conditioned and heated seats? The rear heated seats? Power folding third row seats? Microsoft Sync (too cool)!, or the wonderful DVD entertainment system and expansive moon roof? My daughter said she feels like Mom is driving me to school in a limo.
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Best Domestic Vehicle Ever Owned - 2004 Ford Expedition
By JW - August 21 - 3:14 am80,000 miles and have never had any mechanical problem. This is the way to travel for a large family (>4). Kids and wife love it. DVD system and premium stereo are great. Very comfortable seating, even in the third row. Long interstate trips allow a significant increase in gas mileage. No problem towing large (6500+ pounds) of boat. Have never been stuck in snow and often pulled others out of the ditches.
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Love it & will buy my 3rd one soon - 2004 Ford Expedition
By southcross - August 13 - 10:55 pmThis is my 2nd Expedition and I love these trucks. Im about to buy a 3rd one. This one has been a rock - totally dependable and solid. I feel safe on highway or in town. Had someone turn in front of me recently on a highway and the brakes did exactly what they were supposed to do - again, its solid. Put the Michelin LTX/MS tires on it and the ride is great. Ford has treated me right all along - with the 1st one and the 2nd one. It stinks on gas mileage, but it does everything I need it to do. I love this truck.
