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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  Impressed! - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By VTags - April 11 - 10:10 pm

  Narrowed my search down to new Sequoia and the Expedition based on the fold flat 3rd row seats and need for V8 for towing purposes. After comparing the 2 vehicles, I was able to get a comparibly equipped Expy for 12K less than a Sequoia. And, the Expy has a smooth 6 speed transmission and surprisingly I have 2K miles on it and trip computer is saying 16.4 mpg. Hands down the best bang for the buck in the large SUV segment. Buy it and use the extra $12k savings vs the Sequoia to pay for gas for the next 5 years! Also, settle for the smaller standard tires and you will get better gas mileage.

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  Why Did I Do It - 2006 Ford Expedition
  By Why Did I Do It - April 10 - 7:58 pm

  I called myself trading up, from a 2001 Expedition to the 2006 EB model. It was a big mistake, the interior of the 06 model is not as roomy as the older model. The gas mileage does not seems to be as good as the older model. I liked the option to adjust the rear view mirror for night driving on the newer model you can not adjust the glare control. I just am not happy with the newer model overall.

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  Eddie Bauer not Jack Bauer - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By darth_stater - April 9 - 11:34 am

  Have had the vehicle for three years and it is really great. Nice fit and finish, solid construction and good performance. Gas mileage leaves to be desired and sometimes the braking seems a little scary. Moved to the big city now and must unload it for something a little more size appropriate.

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  Not so good so far - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By Fred J. - April 8 - 9:50 pm

  Ordered 4x4 Expo on 1/21/08 and took delivery on 3/11/08 Drove to Lubbock (325 miles) and on 3/21/08 replaced torque converter. On 3/26/08 at 421 miles replaced torque converter and transmission. So far, have not left city limits because of apprehension that it will leave me stranded at the ranch. Selling dealer and repairing dealer have been great. Gave me 2008 pickup to drive while repairs were made. It had only 220 miles on it and I was sure not to exceed 400 miles...

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  High Expectations for Expedition - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By chuck54 - April 4 - 10:06 pm

  With my height of seven foot tall obviously I cant drive just any vehicle. Thank goodeness for Ford and the Expedition, its the only vehicle I can comfortably drive my 1,000 miles a week as a salesman.

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  Stinks - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Need Outta This SUV - April 4 - 1:01 pm

  I have only had this a couple of months and its ridiculous the amount of problems I have already had with this thing. It stinks on gas, I put in $20 every other day, $300 a month. The mechanical probs Ive had are: the mirrors, they constantly move when turning on and off car, they even did it while Reversing (can be shut off), rough engine idle, and motion detector is really sensitive even when there is more room. RV mirrors wont go back into position, they look up at the sky when I get in my car, so I have to adjust often.

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  Great truck - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By rudi - April 3 - 11:10 am

  This is a great truck. The only problem weve ever had with it was after 2 years we had to replace the alternator, and a few months ago we put a bad tank of gas in it and it ran badly, but once we got fresh gas, it runs great. Pretty peppy, even with the 4.6l v8.4wd works great. Tires stunk, replaced with Michelin xlt. Interior is nice, and roomy. Got a nice ford 9.75" rear axle and a ford 8.8 in the front sweet. Could use a cv joint in the rear driveshaft instead of the u-joint, but no biggie. Can handle mild off roading pretty well. Just hit 44,000 miles, still running great. Towing is fantastic.

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  Very Happy - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By MC1 - April 3 - 10:00 am

  We love this SUV. Enough room for the whole family, comfortable on long trips, great interior design and finish, easy to drive, incredible turning ratio, comfortable seats, impressive sound system and comanding view of the road. MPG on highway got up to 19.5. We are very happy with this purchase. Way to go Ford!

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  Excellent SUV - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By Steve - March 31 - 9:00 pm

  I love everything about my Limited. Its the perfect vacation-mobile. The sound system, the ride, comfort, utility, etc. are all excellent. I even put a bike carrier in the hitch receiver and take my sport bike to the track. I really like the copper metallic color too. This is the first vehicle Ive ever owned that I cant think of anything I would change. I havent had even one problem with it (knock on wood). This review almost makes it sound like I work for Ford! I dont.

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  Eddie Bauer - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By Stacie - March 31 - 12:10 pm

  Overall I love my Expedition. It is comfortable for all my family over long road trips. We travel 2-300 miles together through the mountains several times a week and everybody is comfortable. We have been rear-ended while parked and the vehicle took it and barely moved. My daughter and I were sitting in the back watching a movie when hit and where not injured at all. Great safety in rear-end collisions.I love the handling and ease of parking in crowded streets. The large mirrors help make this poosible.Overall this has been my favorite vehicle so far, except dealing with the car service for electrical issues and odd noises nobody can diagnose. Also has surged in traffic on its own. Dangerous!