New Car: Ford Expedition (2018)

 

A New Generation of Dreadnought



The Expedition, which is based on the same platform as the best-selling F-150 pickup truck, has been long overdue for a refresh, as its last overhaul was back 2003 (a minor facelift occurred in 2007). Like its sibling, it has a new aluminum body – given its size, it may be the largest aluminum-bodied production vehicle ever made – yet will be 300 pounds lighter. And also like its sibling the Expedition retains its body-on-frame configuration.



The styling and massing, like the Navigator concept, is crisp and more tailored than its predecessor. The strong character line at the shoulder and slightly smaller glasshouse lend a stronger horizontality to the overall form of the truck. The horizontal feel is also reinforced by the additional length of the Expedition, which grows four inches in the basic version and one inch more in the extended length version. The grille at the front is, of course, massive, but more integrated with the headlight assembly for another strong composition at the front mask.

 

At the interior, there is a strong influence from the F-150 in terms of instrument panel and interior appointments. The business class seats, so prominent in the Navigator concept, have been replaced by more traditional, but very luxurious, bench seats, with three rows and seating for eight available. And, at this size, even the back row can deliver a comfortable ride.

 

Electronics, not a strong suit in previous generations of the Expeditions, are especially advanced in the new generation with an available wireless cell phone charging pad, six USB ports (two for each row of seats), four 12 volt and one 110 volt electrical outlets. Wifi connectivity is available as well and works within a 50 foot radius of the vehicle. Seatback screens for video, as well as SYNC 3, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are featured entertainment systems, as well as a luxury offering, the B&O Play audio system.