2009 Ford Expedition - Review

The Basics:

The 2009 Ford Expedition is based on a 2007 redesign. This is a fully truck-based SUV with a platform similar to the one used in the Ford F-150 truck.

All versions of the 2009 Ford Expedition are powered by 310-horsepower, 5.4-liter V-8 engine teamed with a new six-speed automatic transmission and either rear- or four-wheel drive. The Expedition comes in two configurations: a regular-length model and an extended-wheelbase Expedition EL offering 14.8 inches of additional overall length and 130.8 cubic feet of cargo space—including 24 cubic feet more behind the third-row seat than the standard Expedition. The Expedition EL rides on a 131-inch wheelbase, 12 inches longer than the standard Expedition. A King Ranch edition offers a special trim and a unique leather interior. If you like the feel of supple, top-grain leather, you'll love the stuff that covers this interior. However, the plastic panel that covers the top of the dash looks and feels cheap, and it detracts from an otherwise premium experience.

Handling and acceleration are both responsive for such a gargantuan vehicle, and the cargo volume can easily move the contents of a college dorm room while still comfortably transporting five adults. The 2009 Ford Expedition may be huge, but it's an easy vehicle to get used to, and the more you drive it, the smaller it seems to feel. The ride isn't as creamy as you might expect, and the sole engine choice can feel labored.

Standard safety features include side-impact airbags and a three-row Safety Canopy rollover detection system with stability control. There's also an optional backup camera.

The Expedition offers an optional DVD-based navigation with 6.5-inch color touchscreen and voice activation, as well as a 340-watt AM/FM audio system with MP3 capability, an in-dash six-CD changer, six premium speakers, and a subwoofer. An iPod jack is standard.

A keyless entry keypad, an electrochromic rearview mirror, heated power mirrors, auxiliary A/C, an overhead console, illuminated visors, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are now standard on all Expedition models. And on Limited and King Ranch Expeditions, the following items are standard as well: power adjustable pedals, power rear-quarter windows, a universal garage door opener, and a reverse-sensing system. New for 2009 are rain-sensing wipers, capless refueling, and standard heated seats in the second row. Top trims offer the SYNC phone/media interface, and the optional navigation system has been upgraded to include Sirius Travel Link.