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Ford Expedition Review - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Ford Expedition ranks 2 out of 8 Affordable Large SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 59 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Expedition, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2012 Ford Expedition is a good choice among truck-based SUVs, but if you’re looking for a fun-to-drive SUV or a family vehicle with a high-tech interior, the competition may be better.

While automakers grow their lineups of less-capable but more-comfortable crossover SUVs, the 2012 Ford Expedition remains a truck-based utility vehicle. It can tow more than some pickup trucks, seat up to eight and offer true four-wheel drive, rather than part-time all-wheel drive. Plus, reviewers say it’s even more refined than other large SUVs, thanks to an independent rear suspension that gives it a particularly smooth ride and makes it more agile than some competitors. Though its base trim is pretty basic, higher trim levels add convenient features at a price that’s competitive with the Expedition’s rivals.

Test drivers say that many of the Ford Expedition’s drawbacks come from the type of vehicle it is. Reviewers note that most families shopping for an eight-seat SUV would do better to consider a crossover or a minivan. Crossovers offer all-wheel drive capability for bad weather conditions, while netting better gas mileage and providing a driving experience that’s more fun. And minivans remain the ultimate family vehicle, with some of the most innovative features on the market and unbeatable cargo space. The Expedition just can’t match their fuel economy, car-like driving dynamics or kid-friendliness.

Opting for the Expedition means you’ll get an adult-sized third row, heavy-duty towing capacity and comfortable ride at the expense of fuel economy and driving dynamics. Still, if you’ve decided to stick with an affordable large SUV, reviewers say the Expedition is a good choice in its class.

Other SUVs to Consider

If you need an eight-seat vehicle that’s capable enough to handle inclement weather, you should take a close look at the GMC Acadia. It’s a crossover SUV, so it handles far better than a truck-based SUV like the Expedition, and it costs significantly less, even when equipped with all-wheel drive. Its fuel economy is also better than the Expedition’s, and offers even more cargo space than regular-wheelbase models.

If you truly need a hardcore, truck-based SUV with a V8 engine, consider the Chevrolet Tahoe. It costs about the same as the Ford Expedition, but test drivers say its engine feels more powerful and capable than the Expedition’s does. You’ll also get a few more standard features and better fuel economy. Keep in mind, though, that reviewers absolutely hate the Tahoe’s heavy third row seats, which have to be removed and stored in your garage if you need to use all of your SUV’s available cargo space.

Details: Ford Expedition

The Ford Expedition comes in either a regular or extended wheelbase model, and each is available in XL, XLT, Limited and King Ranch trims. For 2012, the Expedition gains standard front parking sensors on Limited and King Ranch models, and blind-spot mirrors are now standard on all trims.

See the full list of 2012 Ford Expedition specifications.

• "Expedition is a Best Buy for those who genuinely need the power and space of a large truck-type SUV. Interior materials trail those of some competitors, but for useful power, cargo space, passenger room, and surprisingly adept handling, this Ford merits serious consideration.” -- Consumer Guide

• "For families with more than four kids, or the need to tow a boat or trailer, a 6-cylinder CUV isn't going to cut it. Thankfully, the 2012 Ford Expedition has plenty of muscle and room to spare, and although the Expedition's fuel economy is not great, it is tolerable considering big Ford's herculean capabilities.” -- Kelley Blue Book
• "The … Ford Expedition is a lot more civilized than its truck-based roots might imply, making it a fine choice for those who need a vehicle with large passenger, cargo and towing capacities.” -- Edmunds
• "With its combination of utility, a smooth, stable ride and a pleasant interior, the Ford Expedition is a fine choice for families that tow or take driving vacations.” -- New Car Test Drive

Expedition Performance - 8.3 (Very Good)

Though the truck-based 2012 Ford Expedition isn’t going to drive nearly as well as car-based crossovers, test drivers say it’s a pretty capable, smooth-driving SUV. Read More

Expedition Exterior - 7.3 (Good)

Though the 2012 Ford Expedition doesn’t have the smooth, flowing lines of modern crossovers, reviewers don’t mind. Kelley Blue Book writes, "Who would have thought that boxy could be beautiful? Someone at Ford clearly did and in the case of the 2012 Expedition they've pulled off quite the styling job.” View Photos

Expedition Interior - 8.4 (Very Good)

Though the 2012 Ford Expedition’s base trim is relatively spartan, upper trims come well-equipped with comfortable seats, ample cargo space and a third row that’s actually fit for adults. However, test drivers complain about the interior materials and say that the navigation system needs some work. Read More

Expedition Safety - NA

The 2012 Ford Expedition offers safety features that are typical for the class, and though it hasn’t been fully crash tested, it does fairly well in the limited tests it has undergone. Read More

Expedition Reliability - NA

Ford covers the 2012 Expedition with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Read More