Ford Expedition
The Ford Expedition debuted in 1997 and quickly gained a reputation for its cavernous interior, rugged construction, and impressive capabilities. Now in its third generation, the model remains a popular choice among families and adventurers alike. Owners praise its comfortable ride, user-friendly tech, and robust EcoBoost V6 engine. However, some criticize its sizable dimensions, which can make it challenging to park and maneuver in tight spaces. Additionally, fuel efficiency for the big Ford is mediocre at best. Despite these drawbacks, the Expedition remains a strong contender in its segment, offering a compelling mix of practicality and performance in a spacious, well-appointed package.
The Ford Expedition debuted in 1997 and quickly gained a reputation for its cavernous interior, rugged construction, and impressive capabilities. Now in its third generation, the model remains a popular choice among families and adventurers alike. Owners praise its comfortable ride, user-friendly tech, and robust EcoBoost V6 engine. However, some criticize its sizable dimensions, which can make it challenging to park and maneuver in tight spaces. Additionally, fuel efficiency for the big Ford is mediocre at best. Despite these drawbacks, the Expedition remains a strong contender in its segment, offering a compelling mix of practicality and performance in a spacious, well-appointed package.
Ford Expedition Model Lineup
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV with seating for up to eight passengers. It's available in two body styles: the standard-length Expedition and the extended-length Expedition MAX (reviewed separately). In Ford’s SUV lineup, it sits above the midsize Explorer and the smaller Edge and Escape models. The most recent generation of the Expedition began in 2018 and is expected to be replaced in 2024. It shares a platform and many components with the Lincoln Navigator, built by Ford's luxury arm. Properly equipped, the Expedition can tow up to 9,300 pounds.
Ford has offered the Expedition in various trims, including the XLT, Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum. The XLT is the base model, while the Limited adds more premium features, such as leather seats and upgraded audio systems. The western-themed King Ranch features exclusive styling elements and upgraded interior materials. Topping the range is the Platinum, which offers the most luxurious features and advanced tech.
In recent years, the Expedition has been powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, with different power outputs depending on the trim. For the XLT, Limited, and King Ranch trims, it produces 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, while for the Platinum trim it’s tuned to 400 hp and 480 lb-ft. All trims come with an automatic transmission, which was upgraded from six to 10 speeds in 2018. Rear-wheel drive is standard, while four-wheel drive is available as an option.
Ford upgraded the Expedition’s tech offerings in 2018, including a standard 8-inch infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. That same year also ushered in newly available safety features, including forward collision mitigation and lane-keeping assist as standard equipment and adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, Pro Trailer Backup Assist, and a 360-degree camera system as optional.
We recommend that used car shoppers target 2018 or newer models, which benefit from that generation's improvements in design, technology, and safety. The XLT trim offers a good balance of features and affordability for most buyers. However, if luxury features and advanced tech are priorities, the Limited or Platinum trims may be more suitable.
Popular Trims
Ford Expedition Owner Reviews
Average Rating for 2015
4.1
108 verified owner reviews
Top 2015 Reviews
Ken B. from WA
Verified Owner · Oct, 2016
2015 Ford Expedition EL XLT/King Ranch 4WD
The Expedition is a large and comfortable vehicle that can seat our four grandkids and still have room for luggage, groceries, etc. For a large vehicle, it gets very acceptable gas mileage because of the EcoBoost engine. It is very comfortable for traveling on long trips (400 -500 miles per day.)
Steven S. from AL
Verified Owner · Sep, 2016
2015 Ford Expedition EL Limited 2WD
Vehicle is roomy and comfortable. It is built for long distance trips but makes for a comfortable ride to work as a daily driver.
C M. from IN
Verified Owner · Sep, 2016
2015 Ford Expedition EL Platinum 4WD
Get plenty of leg/cargo room. Get a lot of the extra add-ons for the lower price compared to the competition
Lisa J. from TX
Verified Owner · Aug, 2016
2015 Ford Expedition EL Platinum - RWD
Wonderful family vehicle
Kelley Z. from OH
Verified Owner · Sep, 2015
2015 Ford Expedition Limited 4WD
Please offer more color choices for the interior of the expeditions
Hayley M. from WY
Verified Owner · Sep, 2015
2015 Ford Expedition EL XLT/King Ranch 4WD
Amazed at how quiet the Expedition King Ranch EL is on the road. Less road noise, great audio system. Comfortable seats. Our daughter who is disabled is more comfortable and sits better in these seats than in any other vehicle we have had.
Eric N. from TX
Verified Owner · Jul, 2015
2015 Ford Expedition EL XLT/King Ranch 2WD
power is great, good pick up speed. A/C fan is too loud when on.
Michael D. from FL
Verified Owner · Jul, 2015
2015 Ford Expedition EL Limited 2WD
The back up cameras & power rear liftgate are items I feel are a must for safety. In order to get those two options, we tend to purchase higher-end vehicles that include options not necessarily important to us. I believe I said success is humble. However, operating without these safety devices seem irresponsible today. I enjoy the power liftgate for personal safety in parking lots. Very much enjoy the EL as we tend to use nearly every inch of space in our busy lives.
Ron W. from FL
Verified Owner · Jun, 2015
2015 Ford Expedition XLT/King Ranch 2WD
Info displays on left side of panel need to be much brighter. Bliss system needs to function before a car is in blind spot!!!!!
Dean B. from TN
Verified Owner · May, 2015
2015 Ford Expedition EL Platinum 4WD
Vehicle is good. It does need some exterior updating as body style has not changed in the last 5+ years. I know it is coming, but it is not here yet.