Welcome back, enthusiasts, to Dal-Motors Editorials. Today, we’re discussing something truly special: an expert’s first look at the 2025 Ford Expedition, the next-generation full-size SUV that’s poised to redefine the segment. For those of you who have been on the hunt for the ultimate family SUV—or simply a vehicle capable of tackling everything you throw at it—this is one you won’t want to miss. Let’s break it down, starting with the exterior.
Past Model History
The Ford Expedition made its debut in 1996 for the 1997 model year as Ford’s response to the growing demand for large SUVs. It replaced the aging Ford Bronco, offering more space, versatility, and a family-friendly three-row layout.
The Expedition was based on the F-150 platform, blending the toughness of a truck with the practicality of a full-size SUV. Its initial generation (1997-2002) featured powerful V8 engines and optional four-wheel drive, making it popular for families and adventurers alike.
In 2003, Ford introduced the second generation, notable for its independent rear suspension, which improved both ride comfort and cargo space. This generation saw advancements in handling, safety, and noise reduction, making it a well-rounded full-size SUV for its time.
The third generation (2007-2017) brought the introduction of the longer Expedition EL (later called Max) to compete with other extended full-size SUVs like the Chevy Suburban. This generation also marked the shift to the EcoBoost engine in 2015, offering better fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.
Enhanced Exterior Design for 2025
The 2025 Ford Expedition makes an immediate impression with its bold, refined design. The front fascia boasts a commanding chrome grille, redesigned for a modern yet rugged appearance. The LED headlights provide sleek functionality, while integrated fog lights and a skid plate offer durability for off-road adventures.
A standout new feature for 2025 is the split tailgate—a first for the Expedition—offering a versatile dual-use design for both SUV and truck-style access. Standard 20-inch alloy wheels add to the Expedition’s imposing stance, with options to upgrade to 22-inch rims for those looking for more style.
Ford has introduced the new Tremor trim—the first time this off-road-focused package has been available on the Expedition. It comes with 33-inch all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance (up to 10.6 inches), ideal for adventure-seeking drivers.
2025 Ford Expedition Interior Innovation
Step inside the Expedition, and you’ll find a premium, tech-loaded cabin. For 2025, Ford has added a dual-level screen setup, with a coast-to-coast digital display that stretches across the dashboard, complemented by a second screen embedded in the center stack.
The 15.5-inch touchscreen remains the centerpiece, featuring Ford’s latest Sync 5 software for seamless interaction with apps like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and even Amazon Alexa.
The Expedition seats up to eight passengers, and the interior is decked out in premium materials, with genuine wood accents and soft-touch surfaces. Notably, the third row is adult-friendly, a rare feature in most SUVs of this size. Rear-seat passengers will also appreciate the upgraded 12-inch rear-seat entertainment screens, while USB ports in every row ensure everyone can stay connected.
Power and Off-Road Performance
Ford continues to power the Expedition with its 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, offering 400 horsepower in the standard trims. Higher trims, such as the Platinum, push output to 440 horsepower.
Both versions are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission for smooth shifting and excellent towing capabilities. The Expedition can tow up to 9,300 pounds, making it one of the most capable SUVs in its class.
In addition to its raw power, Ford has expanded the Expedition’s off-road capabilities with the Tremor trim, which includes Ford’s Terrain Management System, a locking rear differential, and selectable drive modes tailored to off-road conditions like mud, sand, and snow. This trim also features hill descent control, enhancing confidence on steep declines.
Safety and Autonomous Driving
For 2025, Ford introduces its latest BlueCruise 1.4, an upgraded hands-free driving assist system. BlueCruise enables semi-autonomous driving on highways, handling steering, acceleration, and braking in designated areas. The system also supports automatic lane changes and in-lane repositioning, further reducing driver fatigue on long trips.
The standard Co-Pilot360 suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera for comprehensive driver safety.
2025 Ford Expedition Fuel Efficiency
Given its size, the Expedition offers respectable fuel economy. The EcoBoost engine provides around 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. While not a leader in fuel efficiency, these numbers are competitive for a vehicle of its size and capability.
Pricing and Trims
The 2025 Ford Expedition offers a range of trims to fit different needs and budgets. Pricing starts at around $60,000 for the Active trim and climbs to nearly $95,000 for the fully-loaded Platinum trim. The new Tremor trim offers off-road capabilities at a mid-tier price, while the King Ranch edition provides luxury and performance with southwestern flair.
0-60 Time
2025 Ford Expedition’s 0-60 mph time is expected to be competitive, particularly for its class of full-size SUVs. Based on the performance of the previous 2024 model, which uses the same 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine (producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque), it is estimated that the 2025 Expedition could achieve a 0-60 mph time between 5.7 to 6.5 seconds depending on the trim and specific features.
The Tremor trim, with its off-road enhancements and slightly heavier build, is projected to be on the higher end of this range, around 6.0 to 6.5 seconds.
To compare, the standard 2024 Expedition Platinum manages a 0-60 mph sprint in approximately 5.7 seconds, while the Timberline trim with similar specifications hits the mark in about 5.3 to 5.9 seconds.
This performance keeps the Expedition competitive against rivals like the Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 and GMC Yukon AT4, which have 0-60 times hovering around the 6 to 7-second mark.
2025 Ford Expedition Competitors
2025 Ford Expedition competes with several robust full-size SUVs in terms of power, luxury, and off-road capabilities. The Chevrolet Tahoe Z71 features a 5.3L V8 engine producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 8,400 lbs, making it a solid performer for families and adventure seekers. Starting around $65,000, it offers 4WD, all-terrain tires, and a two-speed transfer case for off-road versatility.
The GMC Yukon AT4, powered by a 6.2L V8 engine generating 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, stands out with its luxurious yet rugged features. Priced around $70,000, it has a towing capacity of 8,200 lbs.
The Yukon offers an air suspension system that can raise the vehicle for additional ground clearance, improving its off-road performance. With all-terrain tires, underbody skid plates, and selectable drive modes, it’s designed for various terrains.
Another strong contender is the Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro, which brings a hybrid approach with its 3.4L twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering an impressive 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque.
Priced around $76,000, this SUV’s towing capacity reaches 9,520 lbs, while its ground clearance and off-road features, such as FOX shocks and skid plates, make it an ideal choice for challenging landscapes.
Finally, the Jeep Wagoneer offers both luxury and serious towing capability. Powered by a 5.7L V8 producing 392 horsepower and 404 lb-ft of torque, it boasts an impressive towing capacity of 10,000 lbs. The Quadra-Drive II 4×4 system, combined with up to 10 inches of ground clearance thanks to its adjustable air suspension, makes the Wagoneer a formidable competitor in off-road scenarios.
Priced at around $73,000, it features Selec-Terrain traction management and skid plates, ensuring a capable and comfortable off-road experience.
2025 Ford Expedition Exterior Dimensions
2025 Ford Expedition maintains its commanding presence with dimensions largely consistent with previous models, designed to offer both space and practicality. The standard Expedition measures approximately 209.9 inches in length with a 122.5-inch wheelbase, providing a strong, spacious profile.
The Expedition Max, the extended version, offers even more room with a length of 221.7 inches and a 131.5-inch wheelbase. This additional size makes the Max ideal for families or individuals needing extra space, particularly for cargo or long trips.
In terms of cargo capacity, the 2025 Expedition is highly versatile. The standard model offers 21.6 cubic feet of storage space behind the third row. If you opt for the Expedition Max, this expands to 36.1 cubic feet behind the third row. With the second and third rows folded flat, the standard Expedition provides up to 108.5 cubic feet, while the Max extends that to a whopping 123.1 cubic feet.
Final Thoughts: Is the 2025 Ford Expedition the Right SUV for You?
In the world of full-size SUVs, the 2025 Ford Expedition stands out as a top contender. It combines immense power, off-road versatility, and advanced technology with a luxurious and spacious interior, making it one of the most well-rounded vehicles on the market today. Whether you’re towing heavy loads, tackling rugged terrain, or simply looking for a comfortable family vehicle, the Expedition does it all—and does it well.
