The Ford Expedition played a pivotal role in elevating the company’s standing in the SUV market. It directly challenged prominent competitors by offering more space, power and advanced technology. This satisfied Americans’ growing demand for larger vehicles and later on, appealed to enthusiasts from around the world. Despite facing a period of stagnation when consumer preferences shifted towards smaller vehicles due to rising prices, the Expedition experienced a resurgence, thanks to advanced-tech features. The SUV offered enhanced luxury, safety features, technology and power. Let’s delve into the Ford Expedition history in detail.
Ford Expedition History Timeline
Ford Expedition was first introduced in 1996 as a replacement for the Ford Bronco. It was designed to compete in the full-size SUV market, offering spacious interiors, powerful engines and versatile capabilities. Let’s explore details about the generations of Ford Expedition through the years.
First Generation (1997-2002)
The first-generation Expedition was built on the Ford F-Series truck platform and shared many components with the Ford F-150 pickup truck. The shared platform contributed to the Expedition’s larger size compared to competitors like the Tahoe and Yukon.
It was available in both two-door and four-door body styles, with seating for up to nine passengers. Engine options included a 4.6-litre V8 and a 5.4-litre V8, paired with either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission.
Thanks to its longer wheelbase, the Expedition could accommodate up to eight or nine passengers with three rows of seating. The third-row rear seat was an optional feature.
Later, in the updated 1999 models, Ford maintained the same engine choices but increased horsepower for each engine to 230 and 260, respectively. There were minor tweaks to styling, paint options and the introduction of special edition versions like the ‘No Boundaries’ and ‘Premier’ models. However, the significant changes were limited until the popular Expedition underwent a radical redesign in 2003.
Second Generation (2003-2006)
The second-generation Expedition debuted for the 2003 model year. As per Ford Expedition history, the SUV of this generation featured a redesigned exterior and interior. It also boasted updated technology and safety features. The SUV continued to offer seating for up to nine passengers and was available in both regular and extended wheelbase versions.
In this Ford Expedition generation, the boxy shape of the SUC underwent a transformation, adopting a more rounded and less truck-like appearance. This change was accompanied by improved fit and finish. Ford also differentiated the interior design from the F-150s, offering high-end versions with more luxury options than ever before.
Buyers had a range of options – the XLT Value trim and the Eddie Bauer trim. The former offered two-wheel-drive and it was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine. Whereas, Eddie Bauer was four-wheel-drive. It was powered by a 5.4-litre V8 trim level. The 4.6-litre engine saw an increase in output to 232 horsepower and 291 Nm of torque.
Moreover, the new 5.4-litre engine delivered 260 horsepower and 350 Nm torque. All models came equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission.
This generation of the Expedition introduced several notable features, including the use of an independent rear suspension, a rarity in full-size SUVs at the time. This suspension not only improved the ride quality but also created more interior space and better access.
The third-row seat transitioned from being lifted out of the vehicle to folding flush with the floor, similar to a car. Additionally, side airbags became available for enhanced safety.
Further enhancements to the 5.4-litre engine boosted its output to 300 horsepower in subsequent updates. In 2005, Ford made the 5.4-litre engine standard on all Expeditions, discontinuing the 4.6-litre V8 engine while introducing a high-end King Ranch version.
The 2006 Ford Expedition saw minimal changes, as a new model was set to arrive in 2007.
Third Generation (2007-2017)
The third-generation Expedition was introduced for the 2007 model year. It sported a slightly boxier and tougher appearance, featuring a bold bar grille compared to its predecessor. The SUV was offered in both regular and extended wheelbase versions, with seating for up to eight passengers.
The most significant updates centred around technical advancements and the introduction of a longer version aimed at competing with the Chevy Suburban and GMC Yukon XL.
Ford transitioned to a sturdier platform, allowing for the development of extended-length versions of the standard Expeditions. The new Expedition EL, 14.8 inches longer than its counterpart, offered increased cargo space and featured stretched cargo-area windows for easy identification. Retaining the independent rear suspension of its predecessor, this Expedition variant continued to maximise rear cargo space. Besides, here is how to enhance car storage space.
Across the lineup of trims, headlamps and redesigned grilles were introduced. Additionally, all versions now came standard with a new six-speed automatic transmission. The 5.4-litre V8 engine delivered an enhanced output of 300 horsepower and 365 foot-pounds of torque. The towing capacity remained robust at up to 9,200 pounds. This is why, Ford Expedition is also among the vehicles with the highest towing capacity.
In 2015, Ford made a notable change by replacing the V8 engine with a more efficient 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged Ecoboost V6 engine. This engine boasted 365 horsepower and 420 Nm of torque with direct injection. The 2015 Expedition showcased improved performance and efficiency. Additional updates included enhancements to styling and technology, such as an upgraded infotainment system and the introduction of a blind-spot monitoring system.
These updates were carried through until 2017 when a more comprehensive redesign was introduced.
Fourth Generation (2018-Present)
Ford Expedition’s fourth generation underwent significant changes in 2018 to enhance its competitiveness against rivals like the Chevy Tahoe, GMC Yukon line, Chevrolet Suburban, Toyota Sequoia and Nissan Armada, which were perceived as less advanced.
Built with seating for up to eight passengers, the new Expedition was based on the 2015 Ford F-150, benefiting from its lighter aluminium alloy structure. The wheelbase was extended by 3 inches, resulting in a 4-inch overall length increase. This expansion not only provided more interior space but also shed up to 300 pounds of curb weight, improving the SUV’s agility and fuel efficiency.
Fourth Gen Ford Expedition SUV Trim Details
The Expedition Max, elongated by about a foot compared to the standard model, continued to cater to customers seeking additional passenger and cargo room. Initial trim levels included XLT, Limited and the luxurious Platinum model.
The Platinum trim boasted a forward sensing system, massaging leather seats that were climate-controlled and polished alloy wheels. It also received a slight boost in engine horsepower and torque.
All models of the large SUV retained the 3.5-litre turbocharged Ecoboost V6 engine, producing 375 horsepower (400 on the Platinum) and 470 Nm of torque (480 on the Platinum). Additionally, a 10-speed automatic transmission became standard, enhancing towing capability to up to 9,300 pounds.
For four-wheel-drive XLT models came with an FX4 Off-Road package. It offered features like an electronically locking limited-slip differential, upgraded shocks and suspension components, optional skid plates and distinct trim elements.
Few changes were made for the 2019 model year, featuring upgraded leather upholstery. For 2021, the Expedition XL STX variant joined the lineup. It was available only in the standard-length model.
The entire Expedition line underwent revisions in 2022, incorporating subtle styling updates and introducing the Sync 4 infotainment system. The SUV also featured an optional portrait-style touchscreen similar to the Explorer and Mustang Mach-E. Advanced driver assistance systems were also standard across all models, including Ford’s BlueCruise system for highway lane-centering.
New models were introduced, including the Timberline off-road variant with a 440-horsepower version of the 3.5-litre turbocharged engine, increased ground clearance and improved manoeuvrability for off-road trails. Additionally, the Stealth Edition Performance package, available on Expedition Limited models, featured blacked-out exterior trim and 22-inch wheels.
The fourth-generation Expedition continues to offer seating for up to eight passengers and remains a popular choice in the full-size SUV market. The SUV is also among popular used Ford cars in the UAE.
FAQS
When was the Ford Expedition first introduced?
The Ford Expedition made its debut in 1996 in the USA.
What are the different generations of Ford Expedition?
The Ford Expedition’s history consists of generations: the first generation (1997-2002), the second generation (2003-2006), the third generation (2007-2017) and the fourth generation (2018-Present).
What was the inspiration behind the Ford Expedition’s creation?
The Expedition was designed to compete with other full-size SUVs in the market, offering a spacious interior, powerful engine options and towing capabilities.
Is Ford Expedition popular in the UAE?
Yes, the SUV is popular in the new and used car market. These are the most popular used Ford SUV models in the UAE including Expedition.
What are some notable features of the Ford Expedition throughout its history?
Over the years, the Expedition has offered features such as third-row seating, towing packages, advanced safety technology and advanced infotainment systems including the Ford Sync infotainment system.
How is the Ford Bronco connected with Ford Expedition and when was it revived?
The Ford Bronco was revived in 2020 after a hiatus of over two decades. It’s connected with the Ford Expedition through their shared heritage as rugged SUVs in Ford’s lineup.
That is all about the history of Ford Expedition. Throughout its timeline, the Ford Expedition has remained a top-selling model in its segment, known for its spacious interior, towing capabilities and rugged durability. It has undergone several updates and redesigns over the years to keep up with changing consumer preferences and technological advancements.
All the aforementioned features solidified the SUV’s position as a leader in the full-size SUV market. Those interested in the SUV can explore these used Ford Expeditions for sale in the UAE.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s cars blog for more on the history of different car makes and models.
Cover Image Credits: Artistic Operations
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