In the plus-size SUV arena, the Expedition EL is the only other mainstream game in town to the popular Chevrolet Suburban/GMC Yukon XL twins. While the Expedition was freshened for 2015, it is still vastly outdated and outclassed compared to the competition.
This huge coach has some high points, but for a vehicle with a super-sized price (our extended-length EL Limited model rang in at $63,080), it falls short in some key areas. For example, it's noisy, comes with a low-rent interior, and has a frustrating infotainment system. Fuel economy of 14 mpg is also behind the GM competition; the gargantuan Suburban returned 16 mpg overall in our tests. That's not to say the Expedition has no strong points. Power delivery from the 3.5-liter turbo V6 is effortless, surpassing GM's general issue 5.3-liter V8. The third-row seat is as comfortable as the second row, and it is suitable for full-sized secret service personnel. And, yes, we got ours in covert government black, too.
Driving this beast isn't really a burden, but it's nothing special either. The ride is civilized enough, but it's not a standout. Piloting this big boat in everyday driving proves clumsy but capable enough, just as long as you're on a relaxed cruise. When pushed harder, the Expedition lumbers along, and it struggles to steer around and avoid a sudden obstacle in the road. Naturally, its sheer size becomes a liability in parking maneuvers. Its cargo-ship length and wide turning circle make it exceedingly difficult to dock.
Occupants are surrounded by bone-hard and drab plastics that scream "utilitarian truck." Powered running boards are a token of hospitality, but they don't change an overall perception of cheapness. While the new-for-2016 Sync 3 infotainment system is one of the most intuitive touch-screen interfaces available, the screen is a far reach away on the vast dashboard.
Where the Expedition loses on civility, it partially makes up for in utility. View it as a pickup truck with windows and enclosed cargo bay rather than flying business class. It can ultimately pack 71 cubic-feet of gear, handily outgunning the Suburban and ranking among the most commodious vehicles we've tested. It can also tow an enormous load -- over 9,000 pounds -- without breaking a sweat. This Ford is also much more reliable than the newer GM competition, likely because Ford's been building the Expedition's basics for such a long time.