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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  Fun but Could be better - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Sven - March 27 - 10:10 pm

  Fun vehicle. Great for a family of 5. It handles great, but could be better on the mechanics. Have had lots of problems with the driver seat, rattles in the dash, water leak from the rear window and a loud humming noise from the axle. The dealership has had the car for many issues. Gas mileage could be better, but what do you expect of a big truck. Even though we have had issues I would purchase another. Other cars same size do not compare with ride and room, also the deals and rebates Ford gives is much better than the rest.

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  Used Expedition - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By rick - March 13 - 12:53 am

  I purchased my 01 Expedition used, trading in a 03 Honda Accord that I purchased new. The Expedition has been completely trouble free for 8 months, something I could NOT say for my Honda. The Expedition is easy to drive and park, is extremely comfortable, and has all the amenities including a sunroof. This vehicle has definitely changed my opinions on American built vehicles, especially Ford. If Ford continues to turn out vehicles as good as this one I will definitely buy another without hesitation!

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  Nice beginning, but failed in execution - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By SW - March 8 - 7:45 pm

  Ford had the right idea when they redesigned the old Expedition in 2003. They got many things right like the first independent rear suspension in a large SUV, the flat rear folding seats. But, the build quality and never-ending list of technical service bulletins for chronic problems is frustrating especially to those accustomed to Japanese reliability standards.

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  04 Expedition - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By Rob Trez - March 6 - 10:32 pm

  Very convenient vehicle with great towing capacity. Typical 5.4 liter is noisy and loves gas. Second Expedition I have purchased because of reliability and ease of operation. Family friendly easy to access third row.

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  Great Family Vehicle - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By Sylvia de Valcourt - February 25 - 3:26 pm

  With the arrival of our 3rd child we test drove several SUVs and chose the Expedition. We test drove the Nissan Armada, Honda Pilot, Toyota Sequoia, and two minivans. We needed room, AWD or 4WD for beach excursions, and towing for a recreational boat. Ive hauled as many as 7 people (with luggage) comfortably and everything from 6 ft. tables to 8 ft. long 2x4s. The highway ride is smooth and passing is a breeze with the 5.4L engine. Turn radius is surprisingly tight for a large vehicle. My biggest disapointment is the mileage. We knew it would be bad, but we dont even get 14 mpg. We drive mostly highway miles and try to keep rpms to 2K. Our 2001 F-350 7.5L TD averages a better 19 mpg.

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  Great Truck!! - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By Kevin - February 21 - 10:35 pm

  Regarding the "low-rent" interior, I got a wood kit from the dealer and factored in to the monthly payment, which made the interior look "high-end" and very luxurious. This truck is great, with a much more flexible interior versus the other larger competitiors. The 2005 5.4L has a little more horsepower, which I would have appreciated over my 2004. Otherwise, no complaints (and this from a former BMW owner!). As a suggestion, an updated Nav system, built in Bluetooth and a cassette option would have been appreciated.

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  Its a Navigator Without the Bling - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By treidnote - February 21 - 12:31 pm

  Optioned up with air suspension, tow package, side airbags & AdvanceTrac, the Limited has all the features & functionality of the Lincoln at about $10k less - and much less of the look at me due to the monochrome paint treatment. Needed towing capability, and its been great right out of the box - new 300hp motor is stronger - but you have to dip into the throttle a bit more than you would expect to get at the power. Almost bought an 04 Eddie Bauer, but glad I waited.

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  The surprising ride... - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By Emerson Biggans - February 17 - 12:50 am

  I love this vehicle. After test driving 3 other Eddie Bauer Expeditions (two 02s and one 98 model), I settled on the 01 XLT because of its nearly identical options package and $10,000 less price tag. The most surprising thing about the Expedition 4x4 is the fact that it rides like a luxury car, handles like a much smaller vehicle than it actually is, and has outstanding traction (nothing stops this thing). The only thing I could ask for is a little firmer shift from the 4 speed auto-transmission. But then again, I am partial to 400+ horsepower vehicles, and I guess its not really bad for a bone stock family ride (my 3 daughters and my son love it).

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  Electrical Problems - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By Rob Mathis - February 15 - 12:52 pm

  Intermittently some accessories are staying on after the keys are removed from the vehicle running the battery dead over night. Cant always remember to shut everything off. BIG Problem. We cant rely on it! Very disappointed. Great vehicle other than that. Ford dealership cannot find a problem. So far 4 separate instances with a brand new battery.

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  Never Again! - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By Robert - February 1 - 2:52 pm

  I purchased this vehicle used with 25k miles. What a nightmare! In the shop several times rear windshield wiper motor (twice), ignition coils (3 times), outside power mirror motor, emissions sensor, radio. Love the appearance, interior room, handling and comfort. Hate taking it to the shop every other week.