2021 Ford Expedition Informative Car Review
Overview
The 2021 Ford Expedition is the ideal vehicle for families on-the-go. This workhorse can fit up to 8 passengers and their cargo, with two body styles available - standard length or long wheelbase Expedition Max. Plus, you'll have no problem getting around town with its twin turbocharged V6 engine and 10 speed automatic transmission providing you with ample power!
The Expedition comes standard with rear-wheel drive, yet buyers can opt for four-wheel action on any trim level they choose. While it doesn't deliver an exhilarating driving experience, the ride remains steady and smooth throughout. With its generous interior space and overall comfort levels, this vehicle is ideal for those who don't mind sacrificing a bit of luxury in exchange for such a reasonable starting price. For individuals looking to indulge themselves however, perhaps considering the more high end Lincoln Navigator might be the better route to take!
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Accelerate your journey with the Expedition's high-powered twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 and responsive 10-speed automatic transmission, available as either rear or all wheel drive. The XLT and Limited models boast 375 horsepower while the Platinum model ups it to a thrilling 400 hp! We haven't tested yet but our experience suggests that even without additional testing, the base engine will still be just as fast in acceleration than its already impressive 400hp version on both short and long wheelbase versions. With an independent rear suspension for superior ride comfort, this Ford Expediton is leaps ahead of Chevy/GMC alternatives - giving you nothing less than mobility excellence!
Passengers can experience an exceptionally comfortable ride, but drivers may be deterred by the cumbersome handling and lack of precision in its steering feel. If you are able to invest extra cash into a higher-end Expedition model, it is worth considering luxury rivals such as the BMW X7 or Mercedes Benz GLS-Class for more reliable performance. The regular Expedition has a maximum tow rating up to 9300 pounds while the longer version known as "Expedition Max" is capped at only 9000 pounds - so don't forget that when making your decision!
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
The behemoth Expedition and its larger cousin, the Expedition Max don't make any headway in terms of conserving fossil fuels. Ford boasts that their EcoBoost engine (a twin-turbocharged V-6) is more efficient than a V-8; unfortunately, this claim falls short of reality as the rear wheel drive version scores 17 mpg city/23 mpg highway while all wheel drive drops to 22 mph on highways. Despite these dismal numbers, our 200 mile fuel economy route was completed with an average of 20mpg - matching even it's powerful 420hp Yukon Denali counterpart which fell below EPA estimates too!
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2021 Expedition earned a five-star crash-test rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but it hasn't been evaluated by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It has all the latest driver-assistance tech, including standard automated emergency braking.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Expedition's inner cabin features a captivating square dashboard with oversized air vents and materials that refine as the trim level rises. Every Touring model also includes 15 cup holders, plus an electrically folding third-row seat - except for its XL STX base edition. In addition to those amenities, our high-end Platinum test vehicle boasted bonuses not included on other trims such as contoured front seats with massage settings, genuine leather accents all around the doors, actual wood paneling on the console and a leather steering wheel wrap.
While the cabin is aesthetically pleasing overall, its use of cheap-looking plastics is a significant shortcoming in comparison to other vehicles at this price point. Both models come with roomy interiors and—unlike most competitors—their third row can comfortably seat adults. There are three seats available as standard for the second row, but two captain's chairs can also be chosen if desired. The Max offers an unbeatable amount of storage cubbies throughout; all models have power folding third rows that may be operated either from the back seats or cargo area. Additionally, bothrows fold completely flat resulting in an even surface which makes loading easier than ever before!
Are 2021 Ford Expeditions reliable?
The 2021 Ford Expedition has a predicted reliability score of 75 out of 100.
Is the Ford Expedition or Chevy Tahoe better?
On top of all that, the Expedition enjoys higher ratings among CR members when compared to the Tahoe, too. Overall, Consumer Reports calls the 2022 Ford Expedition “a nicer vehicle overall,” with a powerful and refined powertrain, a nicer interior, and more standard safety features, coupled with solid reliability.
Are Ford Expeditions worth it?
Yes, the 2023 Expedition is a good large SUV. There's roomy seating for up to eight, a good amount of cargo room and a lengthy list of features. Interior quality generally makes the grade, as does ride comfort. This Ford has a brutish engine that's fairly fuel-efficient, but its handling is only so-so.
