If you are in the market for a big, spacious, three-row SUV that can not only pack in a lot passengers, but packs in a lot of new technology, then the new 2025 Ford Expedition is something to consider, as it checks a ton of boxes.
The Ford Expedition has been overhauled for 2025. While its exterior styling isn't a huge departure from the previous model, it looks more modern and refined than before. It continues to be offered in standard and long-wheelbase Max variants and has various trim levels to meet every buyer’s need. The Expedition Max is 11.8 inches longer than the regular Expedition.
While not a lot has changed on the outside of the Expedition, on the inside, it is a different story. The new Expedition boasts a completely redesigned and significantly better-looking interior. Leading the way are dual displays that consist of a 13.2-inch center touchscreen and a huge 24-inch driver's display that sits on top of the dashboard. They display Ford's latest infotainment system that features Google Play, Google Assistant and Google Maps for navigation.
Under the hood, the Expedition continues to be powered by a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that's available in two forms of tune. In standard form, it makes 400 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque, but when equipped with the high-output version it ups the ante to 440 hp and 510 lb-ft. Both versions of the boosted V6 are backed by a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Ford is offering the new Expedition in four trim levels. Starting with the Active, the Expedition is fitted with 18-wheels, a power liftgate, power front seats and LED headlights. The power liftgate is new split tailgate where the top three-quarters rises like a traditional tailgate while the bottom quarter folds down like a mini truck tailgate, allowing it to be used for tailgate parties. A Touring Edition package is offered on the Active that adds in 20-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, synthetic leather, heated front seats and steering wheel and BlueCruise - Ford's hands-free driver-assist system. Move up to the mid-level Platinum, and the Expedition gets all that comes with the Active trim along with the Touring Edition as well as four-wheel drive, power deployable running boards, massaging seats and a 10-speaker B&O sound system. With the Platinum trim level, the high-output engine is offered as an option. For the first time, a Tremor trim is being offered on the Expedition. It comes standard with the more powerful engine along with all-terrain tires, an off-road suspension with 1-inch lift, locking rear differential, underbody skid plates and front tow hooks. If you want the fanciest Expedition, go with the King Ranch. Building on the Platinum it adds special wheels, an adaptive suspension, distinct leather interior and a 22-speaker B&O sound system.
This week, Ford has me in their Expedition Max in Platinum trim. It has an MSRP of $85,970.
Enter the vast spaciousness of the Expedition and you'll appreciate why people love these behemoth vehicles. Room is everywhere. As a people mover, the Expedition seats eight - 2 up front, 3 in the second row, and 3 in the third-row seat. If you opt for the captain’s chairs in the middle row, the total count falls by one. On Max models, those extra 11 inches go a very long way. Passengers benefit most as nine of those inches are in the wheelbase, which translates into more cabin room, slightly larger rear doors and easier access to the third-row seats.
Back in the driver's seat, the dash features a new bi-level screen setup. A large infotainment display sits in the normal center location, while a wider unit above shows the gauges and additional information. Adding to the unique setup is a very small steering wheel. All in all, the new setup works well, although it does take some getting used to - plan to spend some time to learn how to control the numerous features the Expedition has. And make sure that you have your smartphone with you, as the Ford Pass app is handy in customizing the Expedition to suit your needs.
As a cargo hauler, the regular Expedition can transport up to 108 cubic feet of cargo. But go with the Max and that jumps to 123 cubic feet. On top of that, the Expedition is capable of towing up to 9,600 pounds. No doubt, the Expedition is a worker, whether to haul people, cargo or a trailer. An added utility feature behind the third-row seat is a build-it-yourself rear storage shelf.
It's been nearly ten years since a V8 was last offered in the Expedition, yet I still have a hard time getting over the idea of something this big being powered by anything less than eight cylinders. But as I've been reminded in the past, one drive is all it takes to realize that the turbocharged V6 easily gets the job done. Just a little tip into the gas pedal causes the big SUV to smoothly lunge forward. Another benefit that the EcoBoost provides is better fuel economy - the EPA rates the four-wheel drive Expedition Max that I am in at 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.
Like all Expeditions before it, the current Expedition feels as big as it looks. Parking takes careful planning and changing lanes needs to be scheduled well in advance. But for those that need a big vehicle to haul both people and goods, the Expedition continues to be the one for that journey.