While smaller SUVs have been all but replaced by car-based crossovers, the rigs with the most muscle still have a place on the American scene. Traditional SUVs like the Expedition are simply too capable and accommodating to ever be replaced by more "sensible" vehicles.
What's New for 2017
A full redesign is expected for 2018, so this is basically a waiting year. The Expedition sees minimal changes for 2017.
Choosing Your Ford Expedition
After a lifetime of V8 power, the Expedition switched to a turbocharged V6 engine in 2015. Fear not, the 3.5-liter puts out 385 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, enough for the Expedition to out-accelerate several V8 competitors. You can expect 18 mpg in combined city and highway driving, as good as it gets for this type of vehicle. All models come with a six-speed automatic transmission and heavy-duty towing package. Four-wheel drive with low-range gearing is available across the board. The Expedition can tow up to 9,200 pounds.
There's plenty of room for eight passengers and 108 cubic feet of cargo space with the back rows folded. The second row slides and reclines, and the third row folds neatly into the floor when not needed.
As in previous years, the Expedition is offered in four trim levels:
Second-row captain's chairs are available on all models, and the upper trims can get a rear entertainment system with dual screens. On the mechanical side, Ford offers an adaptive suspension system, automatic load leveling, and 22-inch wheels as standalone options.
Unless you're strictly interested in the Expedition's capability, we recommend skipping the XLT and going for the plusher Limited, which offers the best value in the line. The King Ranch and Platinum are certainly eye-catching, but come too close in price to Lincoln's Navigator for our taste.