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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  Not a Bad full size SUV - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Marc04EXP - July 23 - 3:43 pm

  I purchased my 2004 Expedition on June 27, 2007. The evening I drove it home, I heard a noise coming from the rear. I own a mobile automotive repair business so I was checking the truck out. To make a long story short, the rear needed to be completely rebuilt. The problem was it was bought from a Chevy dealer so after 3 dealers, it ended up at a Lincoln/Mercury dealer and this process took 8 days. Otherwise, it drives great and I love the vehicle.

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  Nice Ride! - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By jhead50 - July 16 - 10:00 am

  From the quality of the interior to the torque monster powertrain, this ride is one of the best in its class!!

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  The family truckster - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By RBC1971 - July 14 - 11:26 pm

  Just completed 1 year of ownership. Bought it with 37k and now has 49k. Replaced transmission oil with Royal Purple ATF Max Synthetic oil, also am running 5w30 Royal Purple Synthetic Oil in the crank case. A K&N air filter with cold induction has been installed too. My gas mileage went from mid 15s to mid 17s overnight. On the highway cruising 68mph its around 19mpg. We love the room, the 4x4 and ground clearance is tops here in Michigan too. Our only problem weve had is a rear axle whine that is a common on 03 to 06 Expeditions. The 5.4L pulls strong and runs best on premium fuel. With 4 growing kids this Expedition will be with us for a long time coming.

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  Tow the line - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By August - July 12 - 12:56 pm

  We are the second owners, with just under 70,000 miles on it. I am only writing this to help someone choose an excellent tow vehicle. We tow a 22ft travel trailer all over illinois, packed full with kids, pets and camping stuff. Extremely pleased with power and comforts on the road. We had an Expedition with the smaller v8 and it was not nearly as pleasing when we hit the open road. Zero mechanical problems as of yet, but its still low mileage to me. If your going to tow do not undersize your SUV or truck. That will definitely take the pleasure out of your travel.

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  Best Family Car all around, Bulletproof! - 2006 Ford Expedition
  By Troy - June 30 - 2:57 am

  We purchase used with 34K miles in mint condition after trading in our 2000 EB Expedition, the new body style and interior made our 2000 look like an 80s car. Such a powerful car, and finally drives like a midsized SUV, unlike the original Expeditions that drive like a badly lifted truck. That horrible triton click is finally gone too on the new Expedition. With 3 small children this SUV is like a traveling family room, DVD player (that actually plays thru the car speakers or headphones), plenty of room, power fold 3rd row seats, modern interior, I feel very safe with my kids in the car in this beast, people move out of your way when they see you coming. 10 MPG, but who cares?

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  Only Drive Fords - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By Kris - June 27 - 9:15 am

  I purchased this vehicle after owning an Explorer for about 4 years. I wanted something a little bigger to haul kids, friends, dogs. Explorer didnt have 3rd seat yet. I love this car. Weve driven it a long time for family trip, etc. including 2 large dogs. I love this car, its just time to start looking for something newer and with a 3rd seat that folds in instead of has to be taken out (very heavy).

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  2004 Expedition - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By htfritz - June 27 - 2:00 am

  Handles very well, very comfortable and roomy. This is our 3rd Expedition and wed buy another.

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  Wow! - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By golfnut - June 26 - 1:38 pm

  Ford has done it again - what a vehicle. We traded our 04 Lincoln Aviator for the 07 Expedition Limited. With another child on the way, we needed the extra room. We looked at the Escalade and the Yukon, but the comparison wasnt even close. For significantly less money, you get as many, if not more features as those vehicles. This vehicle has as many standard features as our Aviator. The new redesign of the Expedition is fantastic. Moving the gear shift from the steering column to the floor was a no-brainer that should have been years ago. This vehicle handles better than our Aviator did. It has a great ride as we found out on the way to our summer beach vacation. If you choose this vehicle, you wont be sorry!

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  Great - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By Bob - June 26 - 5:33 am

  We bought our 2001 EB Expedition used in 2003, and it had about 20,000 miles on it at the time. Since then we replaced the impossible to balance Goodyear tires with Coopers (like Michelins, only cheaper), and the smooth ride increased 100%. In four years, the only issues we had were the leveling system went out in the rear, and was fixed under warranty, and the backup sensors dont work from time to time. (They just beep continuously when in reverse) My wifes only complaint is that it drives like a truck (because it IS a truck) and gas mileage only averages about 14 mpg. but hey, you dont buy this car for the gas mileage.

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  Luv my Expedition - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By shawnn1967 - June 23 - 7:47 am

  The vehicle is excellent. I have four children and two Labs. We all travel comfortably. She will haul anything and not complain. Very strong truck. This is my second Ford (1989 F150). I have nothing but praise for this vehicle.