By Jim Prueter
MotorwayAmerica.com

(July 13, 2020) Ford makes numerous SUVs, and the biggest of the bunch is the Expedition. It’s perfect if you’re hauling a large family, along with a boat, camper or trailer of some sort, at the same time. Expedition is offered in both a standard length and a long-wheelbase body style called the Max.

For 2020, Expedition is offered in a choice of four trim levels that includes the base XLT, Limited, Platinum and the new-for-2020 King Ranch. The long wheelbase Max configuration is available with any trim level. All offer three spacious rows of seats and ample room for cargo, especially with the Max, along with the capability to tow up to 9,300 pounds when properly equipped.

While most SUVs have car-like unibody structures, the Expedition is a true SUV that uses body-on-frame construction like a pickup, and is actually based on the Ford F-150 architecture. It is a huge vehicle that weighs three tons, despite its aluminum exterior body panels, which reduced its weight by 300 lbs.

We recently tested the range-topping Platinum trim level that’s visually striking inside and out, and has a starting price of $78,480, including destination and delivery charges. All models are powered by a 3.5-liter turbocharged V-6 engine that delivers 375 horsepower; however, the Platinum ups the horsepower to 400 and pairs with a 10-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission that drives all four 22-inch wheels.

Our biggest complaint with the engine was the dismal fuel economy that never got better than 17.4 mpg even on extended highway driving without pulling a trailer.

The Platinum trim level does its best to mimic all the luxuries of the mechanically similar Lincoln Navigator by adding features like premium quilted leather multi-contour massaging front seats, heated and power-folding second- and third-row seats, panoramic vista roof, and power deploying running boards. There’s more than enough standard content to make the Platinum feel truly luxurious.

On the road, acceleration is effortless. Unfortunately, its ride on uneven roads detract from the comfort level. We found it was mostly agile around sharp curves and corners with responsive steering and on-center steering. Given its massive size, maneuvering parking spaces and heavy traffic is somewhat difficult.

We didn’t test our Platinum in off road situations, but we don’t expect it will be as capable as smaller trail-designed SUVs or those with off-road packages. Still, it will be appreciated in snowy road situations when harsher weather is served up. If those things are important to you, we recommend choosing the XLT or Limited trim models that offer the FX4 off-road package that includes 18-inch metallic-painted aluminum wheels, all-terrain tires, a 3.73 electronic limited-slip differential, off-road shocks, a heavy-duty radiator, skid plates, running boards, and step bars. The Expedition does have 9.8 inches of ground clearance that helps with snow and off-road capability.

For those who will use their Expedition to tow we recommend opting for the available heavy-duty trailer tow package that includes a larger radiator, trailer brake controller, trailer backup assist, and a 3.73 electronic limited-slip differential.

All Expedition models now come standard with Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system and the company's Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assistance features, which includes automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, pedestrian detection, automatic high-beam headlights, and blind-spot monitoring.



Despite its name, Co-Pilot360 is not a semi- or fully autonomous driving mode. The driver is always fully responsible for safe operation of the vehicle.

Other standard safety features include a rearview camera, rear parking sensors, and Ford’s MyKey. This system includes additional seat belt reminders, and it encourages safe driving by letting you do things like set speed and audio volume limits for secondary drivers. Additional safety features include rain-sensing windshield wipers, front parking sensors, stop-and-go adaptive cruise control, a surround-view parking camera system, and automatic parking assist.

All trim levels come with Ford’s user-friendly SYNC 3 infotainment system, which includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay capability. Its 8-inch touchscreen is easy to use with simple menus and large graphic buttons. We also liked the redundant large knobs on the center stack for climate and audio control adjustments.

Our Platinum trim also included satellite radio, voice recognition, four USB ports, and a Wi-Fi hot spot. Optional infotainment features include two third-row USB ports, wireless device charging, a household-style power outlet, navigation, a rear-seat entertainment system, HD Radio, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Overall, beyond its massive size, inside and out we found the Expedition to be the best of the bunch in its class and the one we’d buy when considering its Chevrolet, Toyota and Nissan competitors. Technology is state-of-the-art, the turbocharged V-6 is potent and delivers as good or better performance than competitor larger V-8 engines. We wished it drove and handled a bit better, but compared to others for this segment we think it’s still the best choice.

Vital Stats
Base Price: $78,480
Price as Tested: $79,075
Engine/Transmission: 3.5-liter 400-horsepower turbocharged V6 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel-drive.
Fuel Economy: 17/22/19 mpg, City/Highway/Combined
Seating: 7

Crash Test Safety Ratings: Highest possible 5-Star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Where Built: Kentucky

Competes With:
Chevrolet Suburban
Nissan Armada
Toyota Sequoia

Fab Features
Huge interior and cargo space
Advanced safety and technology features
Premium-look curb appeal