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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  Awesome Expedition, Fords Home Run - 2003 Ford Expedition
  By JamesBond - October 30 - 2:00 am

  This vehicle was everything I expected and more. The ride is shockingly smooth for such a large truck and the engine is outstanding. It just pulls and pulls. The advance trac system eliminates the need for 4wd in all everyday situations. Snow is no problem. The only reason to buy the 4wd option would be for true offroading. The interior is designed well and extremely comfortable. At 6, 230 lbs, even the third row seat is comfortable. It is packed with great features and everything is solidly built. I love it.

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  MINIVAN to SUV - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By drk716 - October 30 - 2:00 am

  We somehow no longer needed the minivan, but wanted that type of vechile to drive. We like being able to see the traffic ahead, and make adjustments before the last minute. We love the FORD Expedition. It could be better on gas, however I dont nearly do the driving I did when the kids were in all those activities. The gas tank is big so I only fill it up every 2 weeks or so.

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  Very nice vehicle - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By JayJervey - October 29 - 2:00 am

  2wd Limited with Cashmere clearcoat option (very nice color). Minimal options -- power rear seats, Homelink, and limited slip differential. Very roomy and tall -- this baby is big -- barely fits in the garage. A behemoth - - but it rules. Handles almost as well as my Lexus IS300 that I traded (well, not that good but...not bad either). And its plenty fast with the new 300hp V8. I love this thing. By the way, get the Ford ESP warranty on the web (Loman Ford) -- dont buy from dealer (unless you need to finance it).

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  Luv my Expedition! - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By judissi - October 23 - 2:00 am

  I bought a 97 XLT Expedition, (the first year they were out) and drove it for 6 1/2 years then gave it to my brother who is still driving it. Bought my 04 Eddie Bauer in Nov. 03 and I have loved every minute of it! Ill never have another hard top without a moon roof! I feel safe and comfortable in this vehicle. I also have a convertible so I dont drive it 100% of the time but I drive it most of the time. I have never had a problem with either Expedition.

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  new expedition - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By gwiig - October 17 - 2:00 am

  biggest draw back is poor milage--to be expected with such a large vehicle. Standard features galore, good performance out of the new 300 hp engine. my vehicle equipped with 4 corner load leveling--handles very well.

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  My 2004 Expedition - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By Long Commuter - October 16 - 2:00 am

  I love my Expedition. Ive had it a little over a month, and couldnt be happier. Comfort and ride quality are excellent. Gas mileage is not bad either, as Im averaging 16 mpg..and alot of that is in traffic. The 6 disc CD player is excellent. Only disappointment..the leather feels a little like vinyl. Besides that..no complaints..and cupholders everywhere! For the money, this car cant be beat!

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  Love It - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By HyChar - October 16 - 2:00 am

  This has got to be the best riding 4 wheel drive vehicle I have ever driven. The new suspension is outstanding. I drive up a road known as Saddle Road everyday and it is unbeliveable how smooth and tight this vehicle is. It handles like a much smaller vehicle. The gas mileage is good for such a big vehicle. I have had my 2004 Eddie Bauer Expedition for two months and it has not given me any reason to regret buying it. I love the look, the ride, the performance and the handling. My last vehicle was a Ford Bronco that I loved and drove for 225,000 miles. I gave it to my daugher and it is still running, no rust no dings no major repairs. I just love a good Ford.

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  My beautiful Expedition - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By J. Schaaf - October 16 - 2:00 am

  I fell in love with my car as soon as I saw it. The color, and the interior was so feminine. I love all the "bells and whistles" my car has.

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  Ford Rocks with Expedition - 2005 Ford Expedition
  By Vanz73 - October 15 - 2:00 am

  I purchased the a new 04 Expedition seven months ago to replace a 97 Explorer. Overall we (the family) are very pleased with the vehicle. On the positive side it rides well, handles good for a big vehicle and has good pickup when you need it. The inside is roomy and comfortable. The heated and cooled seats are a little strange at first, but they are a nice touch. Overall this is a great vehicle if you want a large SUV.

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  Hints to Ford Motor Co. - 2004 Ford Expedition
  By torquay - October 11 - 2:00 am

  This is one of the best vehicles I have ever owned. My overall opinion of this SUV is very positive. I use this vehicle in my business and tow a 14 ft cargo trailer frequently with great ease. Basicly this is my mobile office.