Ford Expedition

The redesigned 2018 Expedition full-sized SUV shaves 300 pounds off its predecessor’s weight to bolster efficiency and performance, while piling on new comfort, convenience, and safety features. The updated 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine adds a fuel-saving start/stop system, and it is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Ford claims this will be the most powerful Expedition yet, putting output above 365 hp. The modern cabin provides seating for eight, with Ford claiming that third-row passenger room has improved. Both the second- and third-row seats can be folded flat with a button push. Available safety features will use both camera and radar technology, and they include automatic braking, lane-keep assist, active cruise control, and blind-spot monitors that can see to all the way to a trailer’s flanks. An extended-length model, dubbed MAX, will be offered. The new Expedition goes on sale in fall 2017.

This imposing SUV's 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 delivers more power and better fuel economy than the V8 it replaced. Paired with the standard six-speed automatic, our Expedition returned 14 mpg overall in testing, a 1-mpg improvement. The V6 also has plenty of torque for trailer towing. Regular- and long-wheelbase versions are available, as well as eight-passenger seating that includes legitimate third-row seating for adults. And that's where the good news ends. The aging Expedition trails the competition because of its clumsy handling, noisy cabin, and low-rent interior. Thankfully, however, Sync 3 replaced the much-maligned MyFord Touch infotainment system. Reliability is much above average. A redesign arrives in the fall.

Model year 2015 saw the introduction of a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 to replace the 5.4-liter V8 in the previous versions of the Expedition we tested. Even though it has less displacement and two fewer cylinders, the smaller engine makes considerably more torque. This significantly improves the way the Expedition drives. Other changes include mild exterior styling revisions and an updated dashboard, along with the addition of blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Of all of the variants, this is the one we recommend and particularly the EL version, as its cavernous interior is a standout in the marketplace.

For the 2007 model year, Ford expanded the Expedition lineup with a long wheelbase version called Expedition EL. Offering a spacious third-row seat, reasonably good handling and enough cargo capacity to handle luggage for all nine of its potential occupants, Expedition EL is a credible offering. Towing capacity is impressive as well. However, for both versions of the Expedition, ride quality is stiff, fuel economy is low and the engine sounds somewhat less than refined -- although it makes good power. A rear-view camera is optional and a six-speed transmission replaced the previous five-speed unit.

The 2003 Ford Expedition offers a low floor for easier ingress, egress and cargo loading. The big Ford also has a spacious and comfortable, if somewhat dated looking, interior. Both rows of rear seats are comfortable and spacious for three adults, which is something of a rarity. Ride quality is steady and composed, and the Expedition feels relatively nimble for such a heavy vehicle. However, the Ford's 5,900-pound curb weight results in leisurely acceleration, abysmal fuel economy, and an engine that sounds strained at times. Still though, towing capacity is impressive.

The huge Expedition debuted for 1997, based on the F-150 pickup truck. We tested the Expedition with the standard 4.6-liter V8, which performed well enough but slurped fuel. Also available is a more powerful 5.4-liter V8. This full-sized, seven-passenger SUV rides fairly well and corners capably for its heft. Parking this behemoth and maneuvering it around town can be trying. The Expedition's seating was roomy and quite comfortable, except for the optional third-row bench. Climbing in and out takes athletic ability. For 1999, full-time 4WD became available.