Used 2021 Ford Expedition

The 2021 Ford Expedition takes the 20th-century idea of an 8-seater full-size American SUV and brings it back up to date. It does this by deploying aluminum body panels, a fuel-efficient turbocharged engine, driver-assistance technology, and a sophisticated independent rear suspension. So even though it’s still based on a truck platform, its refinement is readily apparent. The Expedition Max versions are longer, providing more space for cargo.

This sector’s main competition comes from the Chevrolet Tahoe and its longer Suburban variant, plus the extremely similar GMC Yukon and Yukon XL. Compared with those rivals, the Expedition has a higher tow rating, superior ride and handling, a level cargo floor, and tolerable fuel economy.

There’s also another plus point. Kelley Blue Book gave the Expedition its Full-Size SUV Best Buy award for 2019 and 2020.

This year sees a 5-seater XL trim coming in at the entry level, resulting in a shake-up of standard and extra equipment across the range. For example, XLT trim loses the option of hands-free tailgate operation, but Limited trim gains the previously optional adaptive cruise control.

There’s no escaping the expansive size of the 2021 Expedition, but that doesn’t automatically mean lumbering weight. The combination of aluminum-intensive construction, turbocharged V6 engine, and 10-speed transmission doesn’t exactly make the Expedition sprightly, but it’s more responsive and accelerative than its dimensions might suggest.

Things like moving off from a stoplight or merging onto a freeway are all tackled with confidence. The steering and brakes are also well-calibrated, making the Expedition a pleasure to drive rather than a mere task.

Naturally, there’s some body roll, but it is far from severe.

For greater reassurance when maneuvering, we recommend opting for the 360-degree camera system.

There’s a premium look and feel in the 2021 Expedition’s cabin. It’s achieved in part by the controls’ knurled surfaces for things like volume, temperature, gearshift, and the driving-mode selector. And there’s no shortage of features, especially in the high-end Platinum model.

Second-row passengers enjoy comfortable seats with plenty of scope for adjustment and up to 42.6 inches of legroom. Circus performers can leave their stilts on (an exaggeration, but you get the idea). Passengers in the third row also have spacious quarters. The new-for-2021 Expedition XL trim offers that third row of power-folding/reclining seats as an option.

Cargo space is more than ample: 20.9 cubic feet, expanding to 104.6 behind the front seats. Or, in the Expedition Max, 34.3 cubic feet swelling to 121.4 cubic feet with the second and third seating rows folded down.

The Expedition’s shape bears a family resemblance to the Ford Explorer in the overall profile and lighting units. And we’d argue that this is a good thing since the 2021 Expedition exhibits a certain boldness and sophistication.

To some, Platinum models might be a bit too lavish with the chrome, but it almost gets lost among the wide expanses of sheet metal. Expedition Max models have more of everything, with a longer wheelbase and additional cargo space.

INDEPENDENT REAR SUSPENSION
The Expedition’s rear axles move independently. This brings benefits in ride and handling and enables a flat cargo space when the 3rd-row seats are folded down.

BANG & OLUFSEN AUDIO
This high-end audio make is more often associated with high-end names like Audi and Aston Martin. A fabulous 12-speaker B&O setup is standard in the Ford Expedition at the Limited trim level.

With the introduction of an XL trim to the range, the 2021 Expedition starts out a little more basic than before, with only a 4.2-inch infotainment display, for example.

But it still has 18-inch alloy wheels, remote start/lock/unlock, SOS post-crash alert system, and the Ford Co-Pilot360 set of driver aids consisting of forward-collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assistance, automatic high beams, and a rearview camera with grid lines and a washer.

Tech features in the entry-level XL trim include four USB ports, AM/FM radio, wi-fi (for up to 10 devices), and a 6-speaker audio system.

Perhaps the first option to consider in the 2021 Expedition is all-wheel drive, which comes with a terrain-management system. Then there’s the Max variant to consider.

Features like leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, and heated/ventilated front seats are standard in the higher trims but available as options at lower levels.

All-wheel-drive versions of the XLT and Limited versions are eligible for FX4 off-road packages. Limited is also offered with Texas and Stealth cosmetic packages.

King Ranch has its own theme that involves a distinctive black/brown leather combination. Platinum models ramp up the luxury ambiance even more with retractable running boards and active noise cancellation.

Other extras include a dual-headrest rear-seat entertainment system and 2nd-row captain’s chairs. The Heavy Duty Trailer Tow package is available at every trim level.

One engine propels the 2021 Ford Expedition range. It’s a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 generating 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. In Platinum models, it’s tuned for 400 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque.

Either way, that’s a lot of muscle, even for a full-size SUV. And the Expedition makes good use of it, thanks to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is the basic setup, with all-wheel drive (AWD) on the options list. This system comes with a terrain-response function to maximize traction on different surfaces and the option of a 2-speed setup with an electronic locking differential.

Considering the Expedition’s size, fuel economy is pretty good, achieving up to 23 mpg on the highway.

3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6
375 horsepower @ 5,000 rpm (400 horsepower, Platinum)
470 lb-ft of torque @ 3,500 rpm (480 lb-ft, Platinum)
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 17/23 mpg (RWD), 17/23 mpg (AWD),
17/23 mpg (RWD Max), 16/21 mpg (AWD Max)