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:

• 

  The most reliable Ford Ive ever owned! - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Marz - March 24 - 2:49 pm

  I have never been a big fan of domestic vehicles due to previous problems. I have a 2003 Ford Expedition with FX4 package, 5.4L V8, captain chairs in the middle, 3rd row seating, skid plates and tube bars all factory parts. I currently have 120,000+ miles on this vehicle and never, not even once have I had any repairs done on this truck. It has truly been rock solid since the day that I bought it. My only complaint is the fuel economy but its expected. I have a large family so needed something this size. But all in all, this has been my fav SUV and wouldnt trade it for anything.

• 

  2003 Eddie Bauer Expedition - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By otterbout - March 24 - 2:03 am

  Driving and owning this 6th E.B. model in a 4-wheeler is no disappointment. My husband has the 5.4 in his Lightning and happy to say I can still see his tail lights when we leave a stop light. Dont do it often but nice to feel the supreme power and handling in a really big truck. The interior appointments include nav, DVD, htd seats and awesome sound. Greenhouse is supreme except for blind spot at A & B pillars. Easy to miss objects while backing up so like rear sensing device. Overall, Ford has done a 100 on this vehicle when it comes to design and features. General tires awful. Replaced with Goodyear Forteras for outstanding performance, handling and traction. Will get another.

• 

  Expedition NBX - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By SCOTT - March 20 - 2:32 pm

  My Expedition has 50k miles and has been in to the dealer for service one time. It is the most reliable vehicle I have ever owned. I tow a tow hauler to the dunes once a month and it tows a 6000 pound trailer with ease. It powers up hills and pulls the trailer through the deep sand. Ford makes the best trucks in my eyes.

• 

  It did what we needed, when we needed - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By SAL LOYA - March 20 - 12:10 pm

  We did all the maintenance, it never left us stranded. We liked going on long trips, because of the comfort. I chose for my wife for safety, she chose for looks and how easy it was to drive.

• 

  So far, so good - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By Kayemtee - March 19 - 4:52 pm

  In the first month of ownership, I have no regrets about my choice. I traded a 2003 Explorer with many problems at 55k miles so I am leasing this one. I enjoy the room (at 6 feet 2, I have lots of head room and extra seat travel both of which the Explorer lacked. The ride quality is excellent, much better than the 2008 Toyota Sequoia I tested, particulary over less than perfect pavement. Power is adaquate although I havent towed my boat yet. Turning circle is fine for such a large truck. Gas usage is not terrible given its 5625 lb. As per the trip computer, I an averaging 15.2 on mostly highway compared to 16 on the Explorer. 6 speed transmission very smooth and low revving.

• 

  Brand New. - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Batt One - March 16 - 2:00 am

  I just purchased a 2004 Eddie Bauer. I know I will love it. It is a pleasure to drive. The vehicle is actually fun to get in and ride. I really love the radio system and CD player The 5.4 is awesome. Power when needed. I like it as a do anything with, all around vehicle. Ford really thought of everything in my Expedition. It is a wonderful machine.

• 

  2008 Ford Exp Eddie Bauer - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By Guitar Kev - March 14 - 9:32 pm

  I gave my Expedition "10" scores throughout for a reason For a large SUV, one cannot expect to get 25 MPG. I drive the posted speed limit at all times and my average up till now, (only 2100 miles) is 15.6. Considering that I came back to an Expedition from a Honda Pilot, I am thrilled with the gas mileage. Comparing my Pilot which averaged around 19 MPG, I didnt give up that much gas mileage, given the much larger vehicle that the Expedition is. The comfort and ride spells luxury in my book. So far no problems and the dealer is the best Ive ever dealt with.

• 

  My Expedition - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By nlvjenn - March 13 - 2:29 pm

  I have never had any major problems with my Expedition at all. I love the way it drives, it has plenty of room, and handles well in any condition. I bought it in Oct. of 2003, and it had 53,000 on it. It now has 83,000 and runs perfect. The air conditioning in awesome (I live in Vegas). I have only had to change out 2 of the coils. Other than that it has only needed the regular maintenance stuff, brakes, tires and oil changes. I just love it , and know that it has many more years in it for me and my family.

• 

  Its a keeper - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By DMILLS76 - March 10 - 9:06 am

  So far (knock on wood) this truck has been fantastic. Gas mileage is horrendous at 14/18, but everything else is superb. Interior is extremely spacious, towing is excellent. I love this SUV.

• 

  Great job - 1998 Ford Expedition
  By niceandwild - March 5 - 8:59 pm

  I bought my Expedition used with 32k. Just hit 100k. It has never failed me yet and given the fact that I am not the best at maintaining cars I love it. I have gone from Florida to New York several times and its great on long distance trips. Ford tough.