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 Car - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By mm57553 - February 27 - 1:05 pm

  I traded in my Explorer for the new Expedition. So far it has proven to be a great car. The improvements made to the 07 are great, but there could be more. The adjustable foot pedals are nice, but I wish it had a telescoping steering wheel. It doesnt help me to reach the pedals if I cant reach the steering wheel. I can also not figure out why a cargo net is still not available. I have opened the liftgate several times only to have groceries roll out. Yes, you can open just the top, but it is nearly impossible to reach anything in the cargo area that way. I would highly recommend the power liftgate and convenience package, which includes reverse sensors.

• 

  Still going strong - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By jeff88 - February 21 - 12:01 pm

  Our 04 Expy EB with 4wd has been a great ride so far. We have been trouble and maintenance free and after 2.8 years of ownership @ 45k miles, we are very happy with it. Its a great SUV for long road trips, carrying large items, easily configurable for cargo, carries 8 comfortably for short trips and 6 for long trips. This truck has been reliable and safe. Am glad I did not invest in an extended warranty. We are still running on the original Contis and expect to get them to 50k or maybe 60k. It has not been in the shop for anything besides normal 5k maintenance and operating costs are minimal except for gas costs. The fuel costs are offset by carrying capacity for people and items.

• 

  2003 Expedition EB 4x4 - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By david00army - February 18 - 12:09 pm

  I love the truck however best gas mileage I can get with cruise control at 70 mph is 16 mpg. But it is very nice for long trips quite and living in the Netherlands I get a lot of looks because it is one of the biggest vehicles on the road in Europe besides the delivery trucks. However for the truck being a 2003 I still get people coming up and saying what a very nice looking vehicle so for my family counting me there are 6 and i still have room for 2 more so this room and comfort is unmatched.

• 

  My first Ford. - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By taralynn - February 15 - 10:00 am

  I used to drive a Jeep Wrangler and I was all about the 4 wheel dirve lift 35 inch tires all that. Well I sold it and got me an 04 Expedition and its great, not only did I get it for $24700 its proved very useful. Ive slept in it for days when it wouldnt stop raining while camping out. It was about 10 grand less than a tahoe as well. with the same options, well it has one more the keypad on the door I leave my keys in my cars all the time but now I can lock it. I tend to loose my keys thats why I do that, and where I live not too many cars are stolen. But all in all I love my new expedition, my only regret is not getting the 4 wheel drive.

• 

  Still Love THe Room - 2006 Ford Expedition
  By C. RItchie - February 11 - 10:51 pm

  Im still very happy with this product. This is the second one I have bought. I like the extra room. We only have to take one instead of two when we go places with all the family members. It has been dependable with no problems at all.

• 

  Poor build quality...under engineered. - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By Merkl - February 10 - 8:55 pm

  Mine has had 77000 easy miles on it to date. The toughest thing it has to do is load up at Wal-Mart. In the past 19000 miles I have had to spend $2530.03 to keep it running. This includes an alternator and a new battery that the dying alternator killed, a new rear wiper motor, new rear lock actuator solenoid, new #5 coil, new lower ball joints, new left front door switch, new idler arm, and most recently new front sway bar links. Keep up the good work Ford. Way to go putting a 6000 plus lb. vehicle out on the road with paper mache in place of a typical truck front suspension. I have truly enjoyed getting to know the service guys at the dealership. Ill send them a card when it is gone.

• 

  My wife loves her truck - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By Mat Koenig - February 9 - 12:46 pm

  We bought this truck with about 80K miles and it has pulled two boats and driven a family of 8 for the last 4 years and my wife wouldnt let me sell it to buy her a new Toyota SUV.

• 

  The 07 Expedition has upd the ante - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By Fordaholic - February 9 - 12:39 am

  Ive leased a new Expedition every 3 years for the last 12 years. The 04 model was Fords first real effort to improve the overall performance and quality. However, the 07 is outstanding. The ride is the most significant change. Also, the availability of options is very impressive. I now have heated & AC seats, and a remote up/down rear lift gate. The power rear folding seats are worth their weight in gold and the center console shifter is far more convenient. The car has a firmer, tighter, and more stable ride. Allegedly the car has thicker windows and noise suppression metal. I definitely believe its true. The interior is much quieter while driving than the 04 model.

• 

  The truck that went kerthunk - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By jjtblang - February 6 - 2:00 am

  The most disapointing thing about my new Expedition is that I looked at everything first and really thought this was the perfect truck for my family. So many well thought out design details. Unfortunately the thrill ended after about 1200 miles. I took it into the dealer with complaints about a HUM in 2WD that turns into a loud "ratcheting thunk" when switched to 4WD. I was handed a service bulliten that said simply. "Ford is aware of the problem but does not have a fix, do nothing" Message boards are full of the same complaints but Ford continues to sell defective trucks. This is my 3rd Ford SUV and probably my last.

• 

  Great SUV,, Rides and Handles Well - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By Derek - February 2 - 9:35 pm

  Very good ride and very quiet. Tight turning radius, reverse obstacle sensor, large side mirrors, adj. pedals and seats all make it easy to drive. Very comfortable seats and Im already glad I opted for climate controlled ones. Third row is comfortable for adults. Lots of storage spaces and cup holders. DVD entertainment system is great but takes a while to master because it has so many features and optional settings. I definitely recommend the 07 Eddie Bauer Expedition. It has surpassed my expectations. I previously owned a 2000 Mountaineer and prior to that a 1995 Explorer.