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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  O3 Expedition - A Great Vehicle - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By FordGuy - June 21 - 2:00 am

  I purchaed a 2003 4x4 XLT 5.4 on dec 31st of 2002. We have had the vehicle for around one month. I am extremely pleased so far. The truck handles like a vehicle half it size, it almost feels light. pressed hard into corners it has very little body roll. The build quilty is solid. Acceleration is good while braking is excellent, but the interior is really where this vehicle shines. It is massive, comforatble and extremely versatile. The fold flat 3rd row seat was the deciding factor over the Tahoe I was looking at. It puts the U in utility. If you are looking at full sized SUVs you owe it to yourself to give this truck a look - it is a gem.

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  O3 Expedition - A Great Vehicle - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By fordguy - June 21 - 2:00 am

  I purchaed a 2003 4x4 XLT 5.4 on dec 31st of 2002. We have had the vehicle for around one month. I am extremely pleased so far. The truck handles like a vehicle half it size, it almost feels light. pressed hard into corners it has very little body roll. The build quilty is solid. Acceleration is good while braking is excellent, but the interior is really where this vehicle shines. It is massive, comforatble and extremely versatile. The fold flat 3rd row seat was the deciding factor over the Tahoe I was looking at. It puts the U in utility. If you are looking at full sized SUVs you owe it to yourself to give this truck a look - it is a gem.

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  Tough and Reliable - 1998 Ford Expedition
  By mepo2ner - June 15 - 7:11 am

  I bought our Expedition used in 03 with 70,000 miles. It has been a fantastic vehicle for us. The versatility of taking eight people or hauling things has been great. It has just the 4.6 engine and I have put it though the mill. We haul a 5,500 lbs camper around each summer and I have a piano service business and move pianos all over the midwest in a 3,000 lbs enclosed trailer. This old girl now has 190,000 miles with no major breakdowns. It was our main family vehicle for 5 years and we couldnt have been happier with it.

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  GM convert - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By scratch_golfer_la - June 11 - 10:00 am

  After numerous repairs (all warranty) to our driveline, we finally bit the depreciation bullet and traded in our 2000 Yukon SLE. Generous Ford rebate softened the blow. Very pleased with the first year of ownership--quality, fit, finish & NVH are all excellent, contradicting what the automotive press says.

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  Very dependable - 1997 Ford Expedition
  By kev - June 10 - 10:58 am

  I fell in love with the cornering, power and braking right away. Since I have had it I have put over 60,000 miles on it in a short time and have only had to replace the Alternator. Not sure why but I have had bad vibrations in it on the highways even after alignments, balancing, rotations and new tires. Also seems like it will fish tail easily in the rain if your not overly carefull. but over all the vehicle is strong running, very powerfull, takes tight corners and stops easily (for a heavy vehicle).

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  So Far.........So good! - 2017 Ford Expedition
  By Steve Tice - June 8 - 11:27 pm

  Perfect blend of Truck feel and comfort. Only have 634 miles so its early, but very happy with investment.

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  Best SUV for the money - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By ATL FamilyMan - May 20 - 1:39 pm

  Ive owned my 2008 Ford Expedition Limited for just about a year now and have 8k miles on it. For a fully loaded truck with all the toys got a great deal that was significantly cheaper than most competing models. Fuel-economy could be slightly better, but for a large SUV its sufficient. Dont drive it daily, its just the family shuttle bus. Extremely comfortable and handles well on highway. 6-speed transmission runs smooth, but takes a second to kick in when you really need to accelerate to pass other vehicles. Needs a little more instant HP "KICK". Cabin reasonably quiet. Kids love wireless headsets. Why pay $10-15K more for the same basic features in GM, Toyota, or Nissan models?

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  love it but, - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By wendy - May 19 - 3:49 pm

  I love our expedition, but I recently noticed the it stalls while driving. I was using regular octane. We have tried using premium and mid-grade and no stalls. My husband put in onetank of regular and it stalled again. USE mid or premium gas. We also had our rear main seal leaking, dealer denied it, so we found a private shop to fix it for us.

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  Buy Something Else - Its Crap! - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Cathy I. - May 18 - 10:00 am

  The only thing I liked about this truck was the warning sensors for how close you are to objects when you back up. Other than that, I dont see myself buying another Ford Expedition (or Ford Anything) for a long time. Im glad I bought it - Easier to get rid of it when you own it. Ive only had it for about a year and it feels like its going to break down already. So many things squeak and there are so many interior noises that it makes the truck seem cheaply made and unsafe. Ford does have a wide variety of models to choose from but Id have to guess that one model is as bad as the next. On a positive note - the horn works well?

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  Love my 08 Eddie - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By Mary - May 7 - 9:16 pm

  I bought my 08 Eddie Bauer after my 02 Explorer bit the dust. Initially, I wanted the Limited, but chose the Eddie because it had the chrome grille and the Limited did not. I LOVE my new truck! Every time I get into it I remark about the comfort. My husband loves it also. The third row folding seats are a godsend. I will continually buy a Ford. I love this truck. I hope they never stop making it.