Ford Expedition: Trims, Generations & Buyer's Guide

Last updated August 13, 2026

Ford Expedition

The Ford Expedition is a full-size, three-row SUV known for roomy family seating, strong trailer-towing ability, and a comfortable everyday cabin. Standard-length and longer MAX versions serve buyers who need different balances of passenger and cargo space.

The Expedition has long combined truck-based strength with space for a large family. Towing and two body lengths have remained central to its identity, while newer generations have added a twin-turbo V6, more driver assistance, and easier-to-use cabin technology. Recent models also broaden the formula with a factory-built off-road trim and a split rear gate designed to make loading and daily family use easier.

Strengths

  • Its adult-friendly three-row cabin makes it practical for large families, not just occasional extra passengers.
  • The standard-length and extended-length MAX bodies let used-vehicle shoppers prioritize easier daily use or more cargo room.
  • Towing has always been a core strength, and some properly equipped 2027 versions are rated to pull as much as 9,600 pounds.
  • The twin-turbo V6 used since 2015 provides strong pulling power without relying on the older V8 formula.
  • Recent generations pair the Expedition’s size and capability with large, modern dashboard displays and useful driver-assistance technology.
  • The TREMOR gives recent-model shoppers a dedicated factory off-road version rather than merely an appearance package.

Who it's for

The Expedition fits large families who need a genuine third row and often travel with plenty of luggage, sports gear, or a trailer. The longer MAX version makes particular sense when cargo room behind all three rows matters, while the standard-length model is the more manageable choice for everyday driving.

Ford Expedition lineup

XL is the straightforward entry trim, while Active has served as the mainstream family model since replacing XLT for 2025. King Ranch and Platinum are the luxury-focused choices; King Ranch carries a long-running upper-trim identity, while Platinum has traditionally occupied the top of the range. Pick TREMOR if off-road hardware matters, since it has been the dedicated factory trail model since the 2025 redesign. Across these trims, standard-length and MAX versions separate shoppers who want a somewhat easier-to-manage SUV from those who prioritize cargo space.

Ford Expedition generations

From 2009 to 2027, the Expedition spans three generations. The current 5th Generation arrived for 2025, following the 4th Generation (2018–2024).

5th Generation (2025–Present)

A full redesign brought a split rear gate, a dashboard built around a 24-inch driver display and 13.2-inch touchscreen, and expanded driver-assistance features. Active replaced XLT, while Tremor became the off-road trim.

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5th Generation (2025–Present) Ford Expedition
2027

Rear-wheel drive expands to King Ranch and Platinum, and a laminated windshield becomes standard.

2026

A new vehicle-security package is the main update; the redesigned SUV otherwise carries over.

2025New generation

Full redesign with a split rear gate, new dashboard and displays, expanded driver assistance, and the first Expedition Tremor.

4th Generation (2018–2024)

This generation moved to an aluminum body on a redesigned frame, paired with a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 and 10-speed automatic. A substantial 2022 refresh revised the styling, modernized the touchscreen system, and added the Timberline off-road trim.

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4th Generation (2018–2024) Ford Expedition
2024

The second row switches to two USB-C charging ports; the rest of the lineup carries over.

2023

Timberline gains a low-speed one-pedal off-road driving feature; the broader lineup is unchanged.

2022Mid-cycle update

Refreshed front and rear styling, a standard 12-inch touchscreen, expanded driver-assistance technology, and the new Timberline trim.

2021

XL joins as the entry trim, and the STX package creates a simpler two-row version.

2020Trim changes

King Ranch returns, and Ford's driver-assistance safety suite becomes standard across the lineup.

2019

Minor trim-content adjustments follow the 2018 redesign.

2018New generation

Complete redesign with an aluminum body, new frame, roomier cabin, 10-speed automatic, and the Max name replacing EL.

3rd Generation (2007–2017)

This truck-based generation came in standard and longer EL body lengths. It began with a 5.4-liter V8, then received a major 2015 refresh with a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6, updated styling, and a redesigned dashboard.

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3rd Generation (2007–2017) Ford Expedition
2017

Final carryover year before the 2018 redesign.

2016

The newer 8-inch touchscreen system replaces MyFord Touch on Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum.

2015Mid-cycle update

A twin-turbo V6 replaces the V8, with revised styling, a redesigned dashboard, electric power steering, and the new Platinum trim.

2014

The rear load-leveling suspension switches from an air-based setup to a mechanical design.

2013

The tow package gains an integrated trailer brake controller, while upper trims receive front parking assistance.

2012

Blind-spot mirrors become standard across the lineup.

2011Trim changes

XL and XLT Premium join the lineup, while the Eddie Bauer trim leaves.

2010

Trailer Sway Control and programmable MyKey settings become standard.

2009

The V8 gains flex-fuel capability, along with a capless fuel filler and added standard safety features.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Ford Expedition a full-size SUV?

Yes. The Ford Expedition is a truck-based, full-size SUV with three-row family space, strong towing ability, and standard-length and extended-length bodies. Newer versions also emphasize large dashboard screens and a split rear gate.

Who is the Ford Expedition a good fit for?

It suits large families and drivers who regularly carry adults, bulky cargo, or a trailer. It is especially useful when you need a roomy third row and more towing-focused capability than a typical car-based three-row SUV provides.

Does the Ford Expedition come as a hybrid?

No. Expeditions from the years covered here use gasoline engines rather than a hybrid system. Older models used a V8, while models from 2015 onward use a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6.

What engines has the Ford Expedition used?

The main dividing line is 2015. Models from 2009 through 2014 use a 5.4-liter V8, while 2015 and newer Expeditions use a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6. A 10-speed automatic replaced the earlier six-speed automatic with the 2018 redesign.

Is the Ford Expedition good for towing?

Yes. Towing is one of the Expedition’s core strengths, and recent versions include trailer-focused hardware and guidance features. In the latest lineup, maximum ratings range from 6,000 to 9,600 pounds depending on configuration.

Is the Expedition’s third row comfortable for adults?

Yes. Adult-friendly third-row seating is a defining Expedition strength, making it useful when all three rows are occupied regularly. Many versions also have a power-folding third row that makes switching between passengers and cargo easier.

What are the main Ford Expedition generations to know about?

The major used-shopping breakpoints are the third generation from 2007 through 2017, the roomier fourth generation from 2018 through 2024, and the redesigned fifth generation beginning in 2025. The 2022 refresh also brought updated screens and the Timberline off-road trim.

Ford Expedition Reviews

What owners are saying about the Ford Expedition.

4.3
Ford Expedition
(1,739 reviews)
5 stars (842)
4 stars (632)
3 stars (199)
2 stars (58)
1 star (8)

About owner reviews

Carvana owner reviews are provided in partnership with Strategic Vision, one of the largest automotive consumer research providers in the U.S. Star ratings are from ranking surveys completed by owners one to six months post-purchase. Comments from owners are optional, but included here when available.

No rating

“Have had a lot of issues with the weatherstrip's sealing around the doors making wind noise annoying the driver. otherwise a good basic SUV for daily errands, and running kids to sports activities. First thing I did was purchase new Bridgestone Blizzak winter tires for snow and ice as the stock tires were absolutely worthless for winter use... will use the stock tires for summer use once the weather warms up.”

JJJames J.
2017 Ford Expedition Platinum 4WD

“Info displays on left side of panel need to be much brighter. Bliss system needs to function before a car is in blind spot!!!!!”

RWRon W.
2015 Ford Expedition XLT/King Ranch 2WD
No rating

“Comfortable, has everything I need for my family, love the space, the 3rd row helps with space or extra kids I have in my SUV, remote start & opening back hatch helps during winter and rain seasons.”

DGDejah G.
2017 Ford Expedition Limited 2WD
No rating

“Unfortunately, we have had a couple bad experiences with our new Ford Expedition EL. The front seats are VERY uncomfortable, and the car is not quiet (sounds like the car is not properly sealed from the outside). We are very disappointed, and expected the new 2015 to be BETTER than our old Expedition. Is Ford taking steps backward??”

RCRobert C.
2015 Ford Expedition XLT/King Ranch 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.”

DBDean B.
2015 Ford Expedition Platinum 4WD

“Definitely buy one if you can. Best SUV I've ever had. There's not one thing about it I don't like.”

BEBrian E.
2021 Ford Expedition XLT 4WD