By Christopher A. Sawyer
The Virtual Driver

(April 3, 2017) In some ways it’s hard to believe that the Ford Expedition has been around for 20 years. Then again, the looks of the vehicle changed so glacially that it’s even more difficult to believe that this is the fourth generation Expedition. Which, if you do the math, suggests a new generation every five years.

Well, not quite.

The first generation (1997-2002) lasted five years. The second (2003-2006) lasted only three. The third generation (2007-2017) was an update of the second and remained in production an agonizing 10 years. But that all ends with the introduction of the 2018 Expedition, a large SUV that is “up to” 300 pounds lighter thanks to its aluminum body riding atop a high-strength steel frame.

There’s little mechanical information about the new Expedition, other than to say that its carryover 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 has standard stop-start and is now mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Models with Intelligent 4wd will be available with an electronic limited-slip differential, and the Pro Trailer Backup Assist introduced on the F-150 will be offered as an option.

The 2018 Expedition also features Ford’s Terrain Management System, which has seven settings. These include Normal, Sport, Tow/Haul, Eco, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Sand, and Mud/Rut. Also, there is an extended-length version known as the Expedition MAX, though there’s probably room on the hatch to fit an old Excursion badge.

The tip-and-slide second row seats allow access to the third row, even if a child seat is in place, and the reclining third row seats have more leg room. Depending on the options chosen, the Expedition can seat up to eight, and both the second and third rows can be folded flat by pushing a button in the cargo area.

Ford even promises that — even if the new Expedition is parked on a hill — cargo will not roll out when the hatch is opened if the cargo management system is used.

Fleet and police customers can order an XL Expedition, while regular buyers can choose from XLT, Limited and Platinum trim levels. Depending on trim level and option package, the 2018 Expedition offers:

    Enhanced park active assist.
    360-camera technology.
    Lane-keeping assist.
    Adaptive cruise control.
    Collision avoidance.
    Blind Spot Information System.
    Wireless device charging.
    Wi-Fi Hotspot support for up to 10 devices.
    Sync 3 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
    Four 12-volt power points.
    Six USB charging ports.
    One 110-volt power outlet.
    12-speaker B&O Play audio system.
    A panoramic Vista Roof that spans two rows.
    An advanced cargo management system with an adjustable cargo cover/shelf that allows the storage space to be customized.

The 2018 Expedition will be built at Ford’s Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, and goes on sale this fall.

The Virtual Driver