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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  Great Evolution of Design - 2007 Ford Expedition
  By Bob-o2010 - October 31 - 1:16 pm

  This is my third Expedition 97 EB (176k),2003 EB 4WD(136k), and 07 Limited(now 60k). Great design for space and comfort and even the old ones still look great. The 07 is the best yet. The improvements to IRS hit the mark. Auto lift gate and power seats are great. Best is the Ride - Chrome Clad Wheels is the dumbest idea yet. Very easy to damage and expensive to replace. No repair possible.

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  Disappointed with new vehicle - 2010 Ford Expedition
  By cburto01 - October 31 - 10:12 am

  Purchased the vehicle brand new (3.5 miles). We drove it for two days and the SYNC system started locking the media / nav system along with placing random numbers in when attempting to dial the phone via audio response. On the third day, the read hatch would open and not close. Hatch would go down and come right back up. Then start it up and push on throttle with minimal response. Expy would not go over 10 MPH. Nursed it back to the dealer and service adviser experienced first hand this issue. "Ive never seen anything like this"- NOT the words I want to hear from a "Blue Oval" expert who will be repairing the vehicle. Owned 3 days and back to the shop for repair - VERY DISAPPOINTED!!!

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  Reliable Depandable Vehicle over 10 yrs. - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By cobaseball3 - October 23 - 6:00 pm

  Bought new for a family of five. Three boys under the age of 8. Salesperson was a complete tool but, the vehicle and service dept. of Ford Dealership have been professional and knowledgeable for 10 years. Been to many vacations (Disneyland, etc.) ski trips in Mountains and all over the country for baseball tournaments, etc. NEVER ONCE HAD A PROBLEM ON THE ROAD. A beast in the snow, and has been my wifes dependable everyday car for over 10 years (Current Mileage 168,000) and has been one of the best purchases I have ever made, of any product. Own 3 other Fords (F-150s) and I have had the same reliable service. Will Definitely purchase another Ford if same results as our Expedition.

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  my suv - 1998 Ford Expedition
  By sarah - October 22 - 7:13 pm

  My husband bought it for me for mothers day this year (09) and we love it so very much..Over 200,000 miles on her and still runs like a champ..With the exeption to the number 4 spark plug fouling. And it not being owner friendly on replacing it yourself..And its hard to find someone to fix it who doesnt want your first born for the price..lol..But other then the cost od up keep and crappy gas and the third row seat , love it and will get another when this one dies.Hope not for a few more years atleast.

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  Awesome Rig - 1997 Ford Expedition
  By countryboy7879 - October 12 - 9:13 pm

  I love this thing Tons of torque, good offroad, will pull anything, and is comfy. Yeah, it does drink fuel like theres no tomorrow, but its fun to drive, and its by far one of the more macho SUVs on the road. I take it to an off road park almost every weekend and it can follow any of the "trail rated" jeeps that are half its size. Ive also towed in excess of 10,000lbs, and other then the rear suspension being maxed the motor and trans didnt mind it one bit.

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  2010 Limited Expedition - 2010 Ford Expedition
  By bb432 - September 27 - 7:29 pm

  We have had the Limited for over a month now and have found it very practical as well as fun to drive. We purchased ours with the upgraded package. 20s Nav, moon roof, deployable running boards, heated/cooled seat, and rear load leveling suspension. Drives smooth and quiet. We were torn between the Yukon and Expedition. The Expedition won out hands down after test driving and looking at the cost and features provided for each. Plus I did not want to drive a Government Motors car at the present time. Dont get me wrong I love GMC cars.

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  Love this SUV - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By teacher7 - September 4 - 10:00 am

  This truck has been a joy to drive. Feels very safe and easier to park than my 97 explorer. Power fold down seats are awesome!

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  Above 75,000 plan on some problems - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By Brian - September 3 - 1:49 pm

  A very safe and roomy SUV. Never have to worry when it snows, good pick up from a stop. About 14-16 MPG, can see 19 on a long trip. In general a well built SUV for a domestic.

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  A good SUV - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By DS - August 28 - 9:25 am

  The Expedition is a great truck for traveling with the family. The gas mileage makes it an expensive daily commuter. The major problems I have had with this truck are blown spark plugs and the emergency brake. So far I have repaired three spark plugs and replaced three coil packs. Two in my driveway and one in the Appellation Mountains behind a parts store. All repairs where with the Helicoil save a thread kit 5334-14 and a little quick set hi temp lock tight. It takes about an hour for the repair and $40. So far I have about 30K to 40K on the repairs. The emergency brake repair parts are a dealer item only and are sold as a complete kit. The other problems where from normal wear and tear.

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  Eddie - 1999 Ford Expedition
  By azrunner - August 26 - 2:00 am

  Love it, big, fun, gas hog