Monday, April 9, 2018

Used Car Review - Ford Expedition (2007-2017)

This car had an unusually long run for this generation.

2007-2017 Ford Expedition

History

The Ford Expedition has a special place among Filipino motorists especially during the early to the middle part of the 2000s, especially that rich business tycoons bought them brand new back then and you have arrived if you had one since gas prices aren't a huge issue. Ten years ago, its popularity somewhat dwindled with the third generation model as the upper class shifted to Japanese rivals with diesel engines and the first and second generation models had low resale values that became a favorite among networkers (MLM companies like Uno and Frontrow) because it may be old but commands power.

Developed under the U324 code in which it is basically an update of the second generation model that focused on the mechanical parts while improvements were also done inside and out. Logically enough, Ford launched this vehicle at the Houston (Texas) Auto Show as majority of Expeditions are sold in that state in 2006 as a 2007 model year vehicle. This is the first time that an extended length model was introduced (as a replacement to the Excursion) which gives loyal Blue Oval owners choices as well as a one model rival to General Motors.

January 2007 saw the introduction of the third generation Expedition, which was all together launched with the fourth generation Explorer and the refreshed Escape (for the Asian market) and Everest. Do take note that 2007 til 2010 models are sold as the Eddie Bauer with the later ones using the XLT (5.4 models, late 2010 to 2014) and Platinum (3.5, 2015 and up) names. Another thing to look at is the length, with the standard size from 2007 to 2010 and the extended body (called the EL) from 2009 until its discontinuation.

Value and Costs
With a 10 year run, third gen Expeditions have varying prices from P600,000 for the standard body Eddie Bauer to as high as P3,000,000 for a Platinum model having a chunk of the warranty. This is no Land Cruiser when it comes to resale value, so if you want something large and have the money to burn, this is it.

Despite the fact this is a ten year old model, parts are common among American parts specialists plus maintenance isn't for the kuripot in heart. Fuel consumption will give you nightmares if you don't have the money plus with this car having lots of electronic toys, things may go wrong.

Exterior and Interior
As mentioned earlier, it is basically an improved second generation model. Still, the hollow block silhouette is there but the chrome grille gives it more presence.

The Expedition's interior, especially the long wheelbase ones, means business. Its three rows can comfortably fit full size adults without complaining for space and can accommodate extra for your luggage. Thankfully, the controls are easy to reach and understand although some touches that don't befit a three million peso car exist. With a 10 year run, interior upgrades are done especially with the audio system (later ones had Ford's SYNC and MyFord) to keep up with the times.

Engine
For 2007 to 2014 models, a 5.4 gasoline V8 carrying 310hp at 5,100rpm and 365Nm at 3,600rpm comes standard while later ones use a 3.5 V6 with Ford's Ecoboost technology that has 365hp at 5,000rpm and 569Nm at 2,250rpm with both engines paired to a six-speed automatic. Either engine will give you more than decent power at all times but fuel consumption is poor, but it is a given.

Driving Impressions
Unlike competitors that drives like a truck, this one is much better especially that it does not tremble at corners or road bumps plus it likes to be driven at straight roads.

Verdict
Sure, it does not have any diesel engine and the length may intimidate some newbie driver, the Expedition still has the presence and the symbol which some people find. And as a second hand choice, if you have the resources, it is one solid choice.

The Good:
  • Lots of space
  • Lots of power
  • Still has the presence
The Bad:
  • Lots of fuel needed
  • Lots of space consumed on the road
  • Still has some cheap touches, despite the price
The Pick: Any year model can do

THE SPECS
Engine: 5,408cc V8 (2007-2014) and 3,500cc Ecoboost V6 (2015-2017) gasoline
Power: 310hp @ 5,100rpm (5.4), 365hp @ 5,000rpm (3.5)
Torque: 365Nm @ 3,600rpm (5.4), 569Nm @ 2,250rpm (3.5)
Fuel Consumption: 4-7km/L (city), 9-11km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Suspension: Front and rear multi link

MORE INFO
Price (New): P2,999,000-P4,200,000
Price (Now): P600,000-P3,400,000
On Sale: 2007-2017
Rivals: Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, Dodge Durango, Mitsubishi Pajero, Nissan Patrol, Toyota Land Cruiser
Resources:
http://www.expeditionforum.com/

Contacts:
Ford Libis - (02) 637-2044



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