Ford Expedition

The full-sized sport utility vehicle from Ford Motor Company was first introduced in the model year 1997. It was released as a replacement model to Ford Bronco. The SUV model slots between larger Ford Excursion and smaller Ford Explorer SUVs. Ford has its current assembly plant at Louisville, Kentucky.

First Generation (1997-2002)

The initial Ford Expedition was released to fill the gap left by Bronco from Ford. Expedition model released in this generation had the seating capacity to accommodate up to 9-passengers and maximum towing capacity of 8,000 lbs.

Available engines to the model include 4.6 liter V8 that produces power up to 215 hp and 5.4 liter Triton V8 that delivers 230 hp of power. The Ford Expedition model was slightly redesigned for 2000, gaining new Gentex Auto dimming electro chromatic rear view mirrors. Also new for 2000 were optional front seat impact air bags and rear park distance sensors.

Second Generation (2003-2006)

The Ford Expedition model was redesigned in the model year 2003, which shared the Ford U platform and it had the maximum towing capacity of 8,300 lbs. The rear suspension and axle were replaced by independent suspension system to provide more comfortable ride.

The standard engine available in the first generation, 4.6 liter V8 version was dropped in 2005, while the 5.4 liter V8 was the only available powertrain during this period that comes mated to 4-speed automatic transmission. The key features that attract potential customers towards the Ford Expedition are its passenger and cargo room, visibility and trailer towing capability. Major competitors to the model were Toyota Sequoia, GMC Denali and Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe.

The exterior dimensions of the Ford expedition were changed for second generation. It had the wheel base of 119.0 inches, length of 205.8 inches, width of 78.7 inches and height of 77.6 inches. It had the curb weight of 5499 lbs.

Third Generation (2007-Present)

The Ford Expedition was redesigned again in the model year 2007, gaining more powerful engine and few new features. It also provides more rigidity than the previous version. The notable features in the model include trailer towing capability and passenger and Cargo room. On the other hand, it has low fuel economy rates than the other models in its class.

For 2009, it is offered in two trim versions, regular and EL. The EL SUV is 15 inches longer in overall length and 12 inches longer in wheel base.

The standard engine to the Ford Expedition is a 5.4 liter V8 version that delivers 310 hp of power and it comes mated to 6-speed automatic transmission. Major competitors to the model include GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Tahoe and Chevrolet Suburban.