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:

• 

  Great overall - 1997 Ford Expedition
  By travis - December 14 - 4:55 pm

  Im in the army so I drive long distances a lot along with living in a heavy snow state and pull several trailers. OK so it doesnt get the best gas mileage but how many of the people giving theirs a bad rating bought it for the mileage over the power and comfort you get out of it. I agree that the 3rd seat is bulky but its great to have and its easy enough to take out. I have the 5.4 triton and Ive owned 2 GMC Jimmys, a Chevy 1500 350s, and a Dodge Ram and it outdoes them all by far. It has far more torque, towing power and I drive through fields a lot where I work pulling over twice its own weight and never been stuck yet. I would say its the best vehicle in its class with out a doubt. Great!

• 

  3 Year Review - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Mr. Rick - December 10 - 2:11 pm

  I have owned this Expedition for 3 yrs and it now has 61k. Overall I am happy with my Expedition especially when the weather here in Michigan get rough. The biggest improvement I did was replacing the OEM Continental TRs with Michelin LTX A/Ts a few thousand miles ago. I wished I did this years ago. It makes the Expedition ride like a completely better vehicle. I would also definitely recommend buying a extended warranty for any issue that creeps up. Ive had to have the rear end rebuilt (whining), a brake caliper replaced, a transfer case leak fixed, lower ball joints replaced, & an idler pulley replaced. These were small nuisances but Ive seen worst from other makes and models.

• 

  Best Full-Size SUV - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By bwyman - December 7 - 2:00 am

  I saw the new Expedition at the auto show and placed my order the next day. I was taken by the fold-flat third row seats and the sliding center seat in the second row. I love the interior styling (reminds me of an Audi). With all the chassis technology, Im expected a great driving experience.

• 

  Could not ask for much more! - 2006 Ford Expedition
  By SVT-Rich - December 6 - 11:10 am

  We bought her last January to replace our AWD 1997 Mountaineer (now my winter driver, wife drives the Expy). The Expy is outstanding so so far. She has been super reliable so far, as all of the Fords I have ever owned have been. The 5.4 is really a smooth engine with more than enough power, and the trans is also smooth. We love all the bells & whistles. The power fold rear seats are one of the best options. The air ride suspension is very smooth on highway trips, and a little rough on the not so nice roads. Fuel economy is what it is (average 12mpg winter, and 14mpg summer, and bested 16 mpgs on a highway trip at about 70-75 mph) for a vehicle this size, and I new that going into it.

• 

  Eddie Bauer after 70,000 miles - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By Kevin - December 2 - 10:41 am

  Our first Expedition was a 1999 Eddie Bauer which we traded in after 75,000 problem free miles. We bought our current Expedition primarily because the 1999 was problem free and we wanted the power fold flat third row seats (which are great). However the 2005 version has been in the shop a number of times. The AC compressor had to be replaced at 40,000 miles ($1400) and the front brake calipers had to be replaced at 65,000 miles because they were binding. However the worst part of the vehicle is the interior rattles, dashboard squeaks and suspension creaks, moans and groans which drive us crazy. Gas mileage has been OK, pretty much as expected. 17-18 on the highway and 14-15 around town.

• 

  Great Ride - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By STEVE - November 22 - 11:51 am

  We just puchased used 08 Expedtion limited 4x4. We love this thing. Drove it 600 miles at 78 mph and got 18.3 mpg. Ride is great, for a 66" person and the room inside is perfect. We had reservations about buying one but not now.

• 

  2003 Ford Expedition Rocks - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By FordExpeditions - November 21 - 8:34 pm

  We love the vehicle. We have a family of 6 plus pets and its got plenty of room for all. Rear air started making a noise at 68K miles, but otherwise its been a very reliable vehicle. Well miss this vehicle when its time to trade.

• 

  Great Value for the Money - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By Paulie - November 16 - 1:17 pm

  I bought the limited model. Its already well equiped. I added nav, air suspension, rear captain seats, roof rack, tow package. Mileage is 24.3/gal. with the air & cruise on at 65MPH. Well built strong very comfortable. Just turned 29,000 miles with no problems. Nav is so easy to use. I use it all the time.Touch screen make it so easy. The sound system is like a concert. Clear, clean with no distortion. This is my 3rd one 2003 2004 and 2007. This model is by far the best redesign, ride, fit and finish, and the 6 speed trans works like a dream. Compare options and price, you just cant beat the price for what you get.Crash test? Highest rating. Is your familys saftey worth a few more mpg in a crash?

• 

  97 Ex EB 4x4 - 1997 Ford Expedition
  By jfogle01 - November 12 - 3:14 pm

  Well, Ive had this truck for just over 3 years now and have tickled pink since day one. Dont get me wrong, there have been a few issues such as having to replace 4 spark-pugs and their respective ignition coils (250 a pop really stinks for the coils!), 2 tires back in 06, and most recently had to replace the right head on the motor because the #5 plug blew out of the head damaging the head to the point that it could not be repaired - only replaced! Boy that was fun! Other than that, I couldnt ask for a better truck. Yes, fuel economy stinks. 11.6 m/g avg since I bought it, but I still love it. Just turned 150,000 and hope to get anothre 150,000 out of it, if not more!

• 

  2008 Expediton EL Was Better - 2016 Ford Expedition
  By David Neal - November 6 - 3:50 pm

  Ive owned Fords from my first car. V-8 was Ford in my opinion. We moved up from a 2008 Expedition EL 5.4 V-8 with 130K miles, that was averaging 17.4 MPG. Despite the hype the EcoBoost is given regarding fuel economy, Ive got just short of 8K logged on this vehicle. Driving down hill with a tail wind in neutral Im averaging 16.2 MPG. Not what I expected. We are over 70 and have long past the "Roger Racer" phase of lead footing. Ford should have kept the 5.4 V-8 in this vehicle, put twin turbos on it, then they would have had something to brag about. Or at least offered the 5.4 as an option. Secondly having to scroll through computer displays to find various gauges is annoying especially while driving. We looked at the GMC counter part and regret not purchasing that unit. V-8, better MPG, and gauges to look at. Radio reception on Serius keeps loosing connection as does Blue Tooth from my MPS iPhone. We have reset Serius once and hasnt improved the issues. Most Noticeably the problems occur when we are near cell towers it seems. This didnt happen with the 2008 and Serius.