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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  Eddie Bauer 4X2 - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Rick in Alabama - January 18 - 10:00 am

  Prior to buying this vehicle we explored all other competition. It wasnt even close. We have a family of five and tow a 23ft boat. This vehicle is well built, roomy, quiet and handles better than any vehicle this size. Many others complain about the mileage, however, by avoiding jack rabbit starts we average 16/17 in mixed driving with the 5.4 engine.

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  Good Truck - 1997 Ford Expedition
  By Bruce - January 17 - 6:19 pm

  Bought the Expedition new in 1996, just after they came out no major problems, but several recalls. The two problems I had included an engine oil leak, but Ford covered 75% of the repair it seems there is a problem with the early 5.4L. There is a service bulletin on this. The other problem was the 4WD quit. A vacuum line had hit the manifold and melted, an easy fix once found. I have averaged 14.4 MPG so far, I record ever fill, so this is an accurate number. This includes a lot of trailer towing. Overall this has been a great vehicle.

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  2005 Eddie Bauer - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By jimnix - January 14 - 11:07 am

  Quiet ride on the highway, Actual mileage 13-14 MPG city and 17-19 MPG highway driving. Very happy with ride, performance and comfort but did have to take truck back in for repair. Back passenger door had a popping sound when opened. The cause was from the factory missing some spotwelds on door post. Door no longer makes popping sound. Very satisfied with purchase of 2005 EB Expedition.

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  owner - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Bob Drake - January 11 - 4:40 pm

  I have had nine Suburbans over the years starting in 1970 and this is a nice change. Pulling power has been great, body tight, comfortable.

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  Class - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Outer Banks - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Everything I hoped an auto to be and more.

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  Im Impressed - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By DebraLynn - January 10 - 7:23 pm

  My husband and I love this SUV. It drives so easy and Im short. Im able to handle it okay. My 7 year old loves the room it has. With all the bells and whistles its a dream to own.

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  Solid B+ - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Big Family - January 9 - 6:07 pm

  Does great on the things we bought it for (kids, cargo, 4WD in rough weather, comfort, long trips) only a handful of quality-related nitpicks keeping it from making it a truly great experience. Handles like a much smaller vehicle, and large mirrors are second to none. Seats, dash, controls all logical. Could be a touch quieter and a bit smoother on acceleration.

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  EB 2003 Loaded - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By Charles Deca - January 7 - 5:35 pm

  From the beginning the Electrical, RSR system failed causing undo wear to tires and transmission. Never addressed! Noise leaking through door and window seals? Windshield Wipers lasted 1 year? Brakes lock up now and again? Power steering warning light went on and a fix went out from Ford and the dealer just pulled the fuse? Large rattling noise heard by shop foreman and never fixed? All were under the three year or 36 k miles but never addressed. Bought the SUV with hopes to recover the large down payment loan to value. Ordered new Ford King Ranch came in late and not as ordered? Salesmen very nice but how does that help me as I lost my buyer for my Ford SUV!

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  2000 Ford Expedition - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By mwp201 - January 4 - 2:48 am

  I like the Expedition, its a nice truck with a nice ride. The only thing I dont like about it is that the gas mileage is so poor. I manage about 12-13 mpg in the city. This SUV still goes and goes after 110,000 miles and still running strong. The 5.4 V8 is powerful.

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  Room with a view - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By RobbB - January 4 - 2:40 am

  Our family is getting bigger we needed the off-roading capability, we needed the hauling space. The Expedition has answered all our requirements, and given extra options to boot. It looks good, it rides like no other. Its big, bold.