2019 Ford Expedition

Overview

The Expedition and the longer Expedition Max have the cutting-edge tech, towing capacity, and buslike people space that exemplify this competitive class of mega-haulers. These two models feature aluminum-intensive construction that enables them to be both larger and lighter than the previous-generation Expedition. Ford's twin-turbo V-6 pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear- or all-wheel drive. Platinum versions have the most panache, with classier styling and countless standard features. While the comfy ride and spacious cabin are excellent, the Expedition is plagued by clumsy handling and some inferior interior materials. Likewise, the top models are priced alongside premium-brand alternatives but lack the upscale aesthetics and build quality. Still, the Expedition covers every facet of modern luxury liners—it just fails to be better than less expensive competitors.

What's New for 2019?

The 2019 Expedition is virtually unchanged aside from a new option package, some minor interior updates, and new standard features. The new Special Edition package includes black 22-inch wheels, a surround-view camera system, LED headlights and fog lights, added cargo accessories, an enhanced self-parking feature, and heavy-duty towing equipment. The base XLT version adds revised seating material, and the dual-zone climate control is now a three-zone system. The previous Sync Connect has been replaced by FordPass Connect, which allows users to access real-time traffic information and utilize a 4G LTE mobile hotspot. The top-of-the-line Platinum now has bright roof-rack rails and end caps as standard.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The least expensive model of the Expedition lineup costs a couple thousand dollars more than most rivals. Those who want added cargo space will pay extra for the extended Expedition Max. Unfortunately, the priciest versions lack the driving demeanor and affluent interior ambience of ritzier rivals. Instead, we'd choose the base Expedition XLT with carefully selected options, which is the best bargain here. We'd swap its measly standard 18-inch wheels for 20-inchers and add the comprehensive 202A package, which includes leather-trimmed first- and second-row seats with 10-way power-adjustable, heated and cooled front bucket seats (the third-row seats are vinyl), 8.0-inch Sync 3 touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE mobile hotspot, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, and passive entry and remote start.

Engine, Transmission, Performance, and Towing

Likes: Expeditious twin-turbo engine, cushy ride, top tow rating.
Dislikes: Detached steering, ponderous handling.

Expediting the Expedition is a magnificent twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 and responsive 10-speed automatic transmission that pair with rear- or all-wheel drive. The XLT and Limited models have a 375-hp version of the V-6, but on the top-tier Platinum it's tuned for 400 horsepower. While we haven't tested the base engine, it won't be any quicker than the 400-hp version we sampled on the short- and long-wheelbase models. Both had impressive acceleration times that jibe with the engine's responsive throttle and smooth power delivery. The 10-speed automatic intelligently swapped gears without fuss. The Expedition can tow up to 9300 pounds, 700 pounds more than the strongest Chevrolet Tahoe. The longer Expedition Max is capped at 9000 pounds—still more than every rival.

All Expeditions employ an independent rear suspension that, in theory, should provide better ride and handling than the live-axle setups on Chevrolet and GMC alternatives. Adaptive dampers with adjustable firmness are optional on the Limited and standard on the Platinum. Our test vehicle was the latter, and it rode as a luxury liner should—riding smoothly and absorbing impacts from rough roads. While passengers were comforted by its soft ride, the driver was penalized by ungainly handling and imprecise steering feel. These issues are especially obvious compared with the Tahoe and the GMC Yukon and Yukon XL. Those who can afford the top-of-the-line Expedition owe it to themselves to check out the 10Best-winning Mercedes-Benz GLS-class for the best overall driving experience.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

This class of hefty haulers certainly doesn't help preserve fossil fuels. Ford claims its EcoBoost engine (a twin-turbocharged V-6) is more efficient than V-8s, but the Expedition doesn't deliver on that promise. The rear-drive Expedition is rated by the EPA at 17 mpg city and 24 highway; the all-wheel-drive version drops to 22 highway. We've yet to test an Expedition Max during our real-world testing, but the regular model missed its highway estimate by 2 mpg (we recorded 20 mpg). While the 420-hp Yukon Denali fell short, too, it matched the Ford's real-world results.

Interior, Infotainment, and Cargo

Likes: Third-row space is roomy enough for adults, enough USB ports to power a small city, standard power-folding third row.
Dislikes: Finicky second-row folding mechanism, options are all bundled in packages, lift-over height into cargo area is almost three feet.

The Expedition's interior has a square dashboard sporting large air vents and materials that improve with the trim level. Every Expedition also has 15 cupholders and a power-folding third-row seat. Our Platinum test vehicle featured niceties not available on lesser trims such as multicontour front seats with a massage function, leather door-trim accents, real wood on the center console, and a steering wheel wrapped in premium leather. While it is otherwise splendid inside, the cabin's cheap-looking plastics are flagrant fouls and unacceptable for the price. Both Expedition models have spacious interiors and—unlike most rivals—a third row that won't torture adults. While a three-seat bench is standard for the second row, a pair of captain's chairs is optional.

The Expedition is an infotainment sanctuary, with numerous connectivity options and lots of available features. A basic audio system and non-touchscreen display are standard on the XLT. The 8.0-inch Sync 3 touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE mobile hotspot costs extra with the 202A package on base models. The system is standard on Limited and Platinum models; navigation plus real-time traffic and weather cost extra on the XLT and Limited. The rear-seat entertainment system is only available on the Limited and Platinum.

With three rows of seats and two lengthy body styles, the Expedition and Expedition Max were made to haul people and property—lots of people and property. While we only tested the extended version, it had competitive carry-on capacity and unbeatable interior cubby storage. Every model has a power-folding third row that can be controlled from the cargo area or back seats. Both second and third rows fold completely flat for a level floor, making it easier to load cargo.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The Expedition earned a five-star crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but it hasn't been evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. However, it has all the latest driver-assistance tech, including automated emergency braking and lane-keeping assist. While the list is impressive, the features are only available with expensive packages. Key safety features include:

• Available blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist
• Available adaptive cruise control

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Ford provides the Expedition with a solid warranty that even beats Mercedes-Benz with longer powertrain protection. However, the Expedition isn't available with complimentary scheduled maintenance.

• Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance