The Ford Expedition has been on the market for a few years, with plenty of generations to pick from. Let’s break down some major differences to find the best one for you.
Key takeaways
- The first generation of the Expedition was brought in to replace the two-door Bronco.
- If you’re wanting a model that can handle physical media, and mp3 players with ease, then look for the 3rd generation.
- The 4th generation saw the addition of a hybrid powertrain, giving a greener way to get around.
First Generation (1997-2002)
The first generation of Expeditions hit the road in 1997, taking the spot of the two-door Bronco. When it was first released, it came with optional third row seating, while the first row came with captain’s chairs. Other features that this vehicle came with are illuminated running boards, a power moonroof, and dual zone climate control. Ford wanted to make sure that they made a great first impression, and with these features, it’s no wonder why this model is still around.
Second Generation (2003-2006)
This generation saw a new four-wheel independent long-travel suspension system. This became the first full-size SUV to use it. Thanks to other upgrades, the Expedition saw its towing capacity increase to 8,900 pounds. Being that it gained more power, it also gained better steering, braking, and even electronic systems to help control your trailer better.
The changes this generation saw weren’t all about power though. Both the interior, and exterior saw some love in the form of an all-new front fascia, grille work, headlamps, body trim, rear fascia, tail lamps and liftgate. While the interior saw a new dash, door panels, genuine aluminum trim, and plush carpeting.
Ford also decided that it wanted to make the third row even more functional this time around. Instead of having to remove the seats entirely, all you have to do is lay the seats down to gain more room in the back.
Third Generation (2007-2017)
Being that the generation before didn’t last long, this generation had a lot to make up. The biggest changes also came with a sheet metal refresh and redesigned interior with upgraded materials.
The model saw tons of updates across every year this generation with some stand out upgrades coming in 2009. This year saw the addition of Ford SYNC that came with a new navigation system. This system came with 10 gigabytes of storage, able to have more than 2,400 songs on it. You could also rip CDs and even download songs from your iPod or Zune.
2012 saw some comfort features that were added to the XLT premium, adding second-row heated seats. Also coming with front park assist on the Limited and King Ranch.
2015 saw a mid-cycle refresh that came with a more aggressive armadillo-like three-bar grille, which featured step-stacked bars evoking the appearance of stepped armor-plating on an armadillo's back. The interior remained mostly the same, but it came with upgraded materials, and a new center stack that takes after the F-150.
New inclusions were the optional features like a blind-spot information system, that comes with cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera, helping to make sure that when you’re behind the wheel, you’re safe.
Fourth Generation (2018-Present)
This generation saw the addition of a hybrid powertrain, giving even more options for you to pick from. Being that this was a big generation for the tech side of the vehicle, it also came with a 360-degree camera and park assist system along with optional safety features that use both camera and radar technology. Also included were automatic braking, lane-keep assist, active cruise control, and blind-spot monitors.
This generation also saw the removal of the King Ranch trim in 2017 which was later reintroduced in 2020. 2022 came with a mid-cycle refresh, some of these features include a revised front-end styling, new aluminum-alloy wheel designs for all models, as well as a revised interior that is similar to the F-150. This year also brought a 12-inch infotainment system as standard but has an optional 15-inch system if you’re wanting something bigger.
Summary
When it comes to the Expedition, there’s tons of features that are available at different times. If you’re wanting to learn more, come see us here at Jarrett.