Regarding the many makes and models in the SUV marketplace, the Ford Expedition is one of the veterans who's weathered the storm and outlasted the various changes within the vehicle class. While the market has undoubtedly become inundated with subcompact and crossover models, many still need three rows of seating and discernible performance. Thus, the Ford Expedition is still leading the way among other full-size SUVs and is the ideal choice for those who require just such a vehicle. Whether you're a solo commuter looking for a spacious ride or a growing family that needs an SUV with enough room for everyone, the Expedition is a fantastic three-row SUV you'll want to consider.
Debuting back in 1997 before the SUV boom took off, the Expedition was Ford's first full-size SUV with four doors and had the unenviable task of succeeding the Ford Bronco, one of the brand's most popular choices among drivers. Even when the SUV craze ramped up in the early 2000s, the Expedition thrived, particularly against its main rival, the Chevy Suburban. Ford's full-sized force of nature is still rolling off the assembly lines and serving as a masterclass in what capability and performance can be achieved through determination and iron will. In an industry constantly evolving and moving in new directions, the 2024 Ford Expedition proves that the more things change, the more they stay the same.
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While the marketplace for full-sized SUVs isn't nearly as competitive as it once was, Ford still has an edge in performance and affordability. With its starting MSRP of $55,630, the Expedition costs significantly less than the Chevy Suburban, Jeep Wagoner, GMC Yukon, and Nissan Armada.[a] While Chevy is still pairing its full-size offerings with V8 engines, Ford has resolved to do much more with less.
Standard across all trims is a twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6. The performance specs of the engine vary on trim, allowing drivers to choose which type of powertrain ideally suits them best. Base trims have an impressive 380 hp and the capacity to generate 470 lb-ft of torque. Limited models get a boost with 400 hp, and those who opt for the Stealth Performance package get 440 hp and the mind-blowing capacity to push out 510 lb-ft of torque. All versions of the Expeditions engine are paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission for optimum performance. If that weren't enough to pique your interest, then a standard independent rear suspension with superb handling and a maximum towing capacity of 9,300 lbs illustrates that Ford is once again the undisputed leader of the SUV world.
One of the aspects that's made the Expedition such a popular vehicle over the years is its versatility in several applications. While there's no denying that the Expedition's competent tow rating will attract many trailering drivers, there's plenty to be excited about for those who plan on utilizing the Expedition for the rough and tumble world of off-roading.
If you plan several adventures on the less traveled road, you'll want to use the available Control Trac 4WD system. This includes a limited-slip differential and access to seven driving modes facilitating travel on various terrains. You'll have complete control over your surroundings no matter where your adventures take you. Drivers who opt for the Limited trim will have the added capability of a sport-tuned suspension geared more towards urban performance.
The performance attributes aligned to the Ford Expedition are impressive and allow the vehicle to undertake a wealth of tasks that make it exceptional. Of course, the interior is where you'll be spending your time, and Ford has again done an immaculate job equipping each trim with a host of tech-savvy features and comforts that make any journey enjoyable.
Seating arrangements vary, with either two rows of bench seats to accommodate up to eight passengers, or the second row can be swapped out for a set of Captain's Chairs to allow spacious and luxurious seating for seven. Seating arrangements aside, the Expedition can also allow for considerable storage space. When all three rows of seating are occupied, 19.3 cu.ft. of room can be utilized, and for those moments that require the most storage possible, over 104 cu.ft. Become available behind the front row.
The vehicle's infotainment screen is the gateway to the various technological features you'll find on the expedition. Ford's setups are some of the most unique, with a vertical design that makes access easier and instrumentation that focuses on being user-friendly. The available 15.5-inch screen, the same as found on the Mustang Mach-E, is equipped with Ford's SYNC 4 software program. Unlike other systems utilized throughout the industry, SYNC 4 receives continuous updates over the air to ensure you're using the latest version on the road ahead. Voice activation and wireless compatibility with both Apple and Android products enhance the experience behind the wheel.
Three different stereo systems can turn the Expedition into an instant concert hall with refined audio quality that surpasses many of the vehicle's contemporaries. The base trim features a six-speaker setup, while the Limited trim upgrades to a 12-speaker setup by the experts at Bang & Olufsen. The King Ranch trim and Platinum trims get the big kahuna in the form of a 22-speaker system with a subwoofer for the ultimate entertainment experience.
The quality of materials that comprise the interior increases as one climbs up the ladder of various trims. Base trims have a cloth interior, with the King Ranch and Platinum trims having the advantage of leather and power seating, which provides a comfortable experience for drivers and passengers alike. Opting for the Platinum trim allows you to massage front seats with heating and ventilation, making any weather condition outside a non-issue when you start your morning commute.
The tech-savviness of the Ford Expedition isn't just limited to entertainment and comfort. The automotive industry has been riding high in recent years due to the various breakthroughs regarding the items that enhance the driving experience and provide additional oversight and safety. Ford has been at the forefront of these innovations, and the Expedition offers a wide range. First and foremost, it's worth noting that the 2024 Ford Expedition received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA in collision testing, which speaks to the quality that Ford emphasizes in their vehicle designs.
Ford Co-Pilot 360 is standard across all trims of the 2024 Ford Expedition. This comprehensive suite of features includes Automatic Emergency Braking, a Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert, a Lane-Keeping System, rear parking sensors, and automated high beams. These are essential in maintaining a proper position, increasing visibility, and preserving reaction time.
Starting with the Timberline trim, the features have become even more advanced, and certain ones can cater to drivers interested in utilizing the Expedition for specific applications. The Timberline comes with Trail Control, which automatically adjusts throttle speeds over particular terrains to allow drivers to place their focus on steering and maneuvering around uneven terrain. For drivers who live in urban environments where finding a parking space can sometimes be difficult, active Park Assist 2.0 allows moving to a parallel or perpendicular parking space to be done with minimal difficulty.
Among the most sought-after features for the 2024 model year is BlueCruise. Drivers traveling long distances on the highway will want to use this hands-free, semi-autonomous technology with over 130,000 miles of pre-programmed roads across North America. BlueCruise is essential in reducing driver fatigue, which has been proven to cause many accidents over the years.