There may be a few consumers looking for large SUV’s but for those who are, the 2011 Ford Expedition is a nice option.
This large SUV has a roomy interior and very high on sheer strength in performance. It is very ideal for consumers looking for a vehicle that can haul many passengers, can carry cargo and can tow in great levels.
Performance and Engine
The performance of the Ford Expedition is very good in comparison to what users would expect from a large vehicle. This can be owed to the independent rear suspension, which smoothes out bumps.
The Expedition is fitted with the 5.4 liter V8 engine which gives it a capacity of 310 horsepower side by side with 365 pound-feet torque. This is paired with a standard six-speed automatic transmission. Those who want to drive off-road have a choice of a four-wheel drive layout.
For a large SUV, the fuel economy of the Expedition is average. EPA estimates 14/20 mpg city/highway rating for 2WD driving and 12/17 on 4WD versions. The braking, although decent, requires room to make a complete stop.
The Ford Expedition boasts great power in towing. It can tow up to 9,200 pounds.
Exterior
The exterior look of the Expedition is respectable but it looks very much like a conventional large SUV. Most reviewers still find the Expedition handsome, though.
Having very large proportions, the Expedition proves to be hard to maneuver generally.
Interior
While the exterior is very rugged looking, the interior of the Expedition proves to be impressive with its large space and cargo capability. Some reviewers complain about the numerous buttons on the dash and wish that there were more technological features that is present on its smaller cousins.
The 2011 Ford Expedition seats up to eight people. The bucket seats receive praise from reviewers. The second and third-row seats are not that appealing for most. However, this issue is common for its class. Considering that, the Expedition fares better than most competitors.
The cargo space is an aspect the Expedition owns bragging rights about. The 131 total cubic feet of space is easy to access due to its easy-to-fold rear seats.
Safety and Reliability
Some safety measures that are standard on the Expedition are antilock disc brakes with brake assist, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, and a rollover-sensing stability control system. It also has the MyKey, a programmable system which would enable parents to set limits for speed and volumes of stereo for their driving teens, as a standard. Each model is also equipped with Trailer Sway Control, a system that uses the existing stability control sensors to detect the sway of the trailer. In case of a sway, it applies clear-cut braking and throttle tunings to assist in making the vehicle and the trailer stable.
The 2011 Expedition has not yet gone through crash tests. It should be noted though, that the 2010 models faired quite high on government crash tests. But then, the tests have been updated so it’s still best to wait for the results.
The 2011 Ford Expedition reliability scores 5.0 out of 10 in the Predicted Reliability rating by J.D. Power and Associates. The basic bumper-to-bumper warranty is for the first three years or 36,000 miles. The powertrain warranty is for five years or 60,000 miles. It also has a corrosion perforation protection warranty for five years, disregarding miles.
The Competition
Side-by-side its closest competition in the large SUV category, the 2011 Ford Expedition rank almost equal in interior accommodations with the Chevrolet Tahoe (MSRP $42,830.00; 15 city/21 hwy) and GMC Yukon (MSRP $38,945.00; 15 city/21 hwy). These two beats the Expedition in gas mileage, though. Also, these have their hybrid counterparts. What should be mentioned is that hybrids costs more money.
Pros and Cons
To summarize, the 2011 Ford Expedition brags heavy towing capacity and large cargo space. Its third row is very suitable for adult passengers.
Some flaws would be in the handling, being a heavy vehicle. The braking is also not up to par.
Overall Rating
68 out of 100
What others say:
“Expedition is a Best Buy for those who genuinely need the power and space of a large truck-type SUV. Interior materials trail those of some competitors, but for useful power, cargo space, passenger room, and surprisingly adept handling, this Ford merits serious consideration…” Consumer Guide
“The 2011 Ford Expedition is a lot more civilized than its truck-based roots might imply, making it a fine choice for those who need a vehicle with large passenger, cargo and towing capacities.” Edmunds
“… For its part the 2011 Expedition and its long-wheelbase EL stablemate offer loads of space for passengers and cargo while maintaining a (relatively) carlike demeanor courtesy of their four-wheel independent suspension.” cargurus
“For those who have to haul people and tow, the 2011 Ford Expedition provides truck toughness in a well-rounded wagon.” The Car Connection
“The Expedition has a good interior and an independent suspension, which allows the comfortable third-row seat to fold flat into the floor. ESC and three-row curtain air bags are standard. The noisy V8 felt sluggish and returned 13 mpg overall. Handling is responsive for such a large SUV, and towing capacity is generous.” Consumer Report
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: SUV | Base Price: $ 36,270.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 28 gallons | Miles Per Gallon: 14 city / 20 hwy |
| Length: 206.5 in. (525 cm) | Width: 78.8 in. (200 cm) |
| Height: 77.2 in. (196 cm) | Weight: 7239 lbs (3284 kg) |
| Wheel Base: 119 in. (302 cm) | Ground Clearance: 8.7 in. (22 cm) unladen |
| Luggage Capacity: Max. Cargo Vol. 108.3 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 8 |
| Engine: 5.4L Triton SOHC 3V Flex Fuel V8 | Displacement: 5408 |
| Horsepower: 310 hp | Max RPM: 5100 rpm |
| Torque: 365 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm | Transmission: 6-speed automatic overdrive |
| 0-60 mph: 9.1 Seconds | Max Towing Capacity: 9200 lbs (4173 kgs) |
| Option:XL – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine | MSRP: $37,275; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:XLT – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine | MSRP: $38,815; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:XL EL – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine | MSRP: $39,925; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:XLT EL – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine | MSRP: $41,525; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:Limited – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine | MSRP: $45,485; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:King Ranch – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine | MSRP: $46,755; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy |
| Option:Limited EL – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine | MSRP: $48,135; MPG: 18 city / 24 hwy |
| Option:King Ranch EL – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine | MSRP: $49,405; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy |
