I'm thinking about buying a new Ford Expediton EL. Can anyone give me some info about them?

Question

Right now, I drive a Yukon XL. It's getting old and tired, but I've got a big family so I need a big car. Those new Ford Expeditions with the extended back LOOK nice, and are priced right. But because this is the first model year, I'm a little worried. If you own one or know somebody that does, I would love to hear some honest opinions of them. Thanks.

Answer 1

You'll really like this vehicle. One thing you'll notice IMMEDIATELY is the superior turning radius of the Expedition EL compared to your Yukon XL. MUCH easier to park then your Yukon! It's got a great smooth ride with its independent suspsension and the optional 20" wheels are a FANTASTIC riding wheel. It is odd to find an oversize wheel combo that drives well, and Ford and Lincoln have nailed it on this one! This suv really has a "tight" feel to it in town and on the highway. If you opt for the bells and whistles, you'll love the power fold flat third row. With the touch of a button it will fold completely flat into the floor. Unlike your Yukon XL where you can fold the seat over, then have to stack things around it and on top of it. Or, in your Yukon, if you want a flat floor, you have to remove the third row seat! And that seat is heavy as you know! Well, NO MORE with the new Expedition (and all others from 2003 on for that matter).

In all honesty, you'll have less trouble with this vehicle than its GM counterpart. Most of the changes to the vehicle are in the sheetmetal and the actual lengthening of the suv. The engine is the same tested and true 5.4L Triton V-8, and the same reliable accessories. The 5.3 in your Yukon is a great motor, but the accessories around it tend to develop issues; ie alternator, water pump, intermediate steering shaft.

I'll get a "thumbs down" on my answer because I like the vehicle and it's not a Toyota. But, I'm a sales manager of a Lincoln/Mercury dealership and I will be buying this vehicle or the Navigator L, personally for my wife and kids. Because, like you, I have a large family and require a large vehicle. Plus, I just like them better than any import competitor (although there is NO import that can compare in size to this suv).

Answer 2

Its not really the first model year. The Expedition was freshened up, not totally redesigned and the EL model is just an extended version of the standard Expedition so the engineering and technology has been around for awhile. You will have no quality problems, Ford builds some of the best trucks on the market.

Answer 3

Stick with the GM yukon or suburban, I have owned two suburbans and one ford expedition in the middle. The chevy' s always had better milage and had less repairs.

Answer 4

actually, as a ford salesman, the new expedition is a fantastic vehicle. never mind what the other guy said, it is a very different vehicle under the skin, which we chose to keep very similar to the old model. the back seat is much more useful than in a GM product, as you DON:T HAVE TO TAKE IT OUT TO USE THE SPACE!!!!! also, in the EL, the back doors will open and allow you to use more of the space (it is not designed into the wheel well like the GM line is). also, you might check out car and driver's articles. looks-wise, i give a nod to GM. actually useability and practical features, i sincerely believe the ford with its Roll Stability Control and other safety features would be a better choice for you and your family.

if you have any further questions, please feel free to hit my e-mail box... [e-mail]

also, you might look at fordvehicles.com for further info

Answer 5

go with the suburban,more power,less repairs.oh and dont let the dealer stick to to you! DONT let them finance it,DONT give them a trade,and above all:NEVER let them sell you any "add ons",i.e.:"scotchgard" for $800,etc.get your financing BEFORE you go to the dealer.i got screwed bad years ago and since then i try to keep up on all there schemes.stick with GM,ive had both,the chevy is much better built and much better quality and none of that goofy ford engineering.i bought a new F150 with a 4.6 while my brother got the silverado 5.3,his chevy had twice the power and just as good mileage,plus it was cheaper and way easier to fix than the ford.
just my 2cents

Answer 6

The Expedition is a "medium risk" vehicle according to safety statistics. The Expedition has a higher risk for fatal rollovers. There are other large passenger vehicles available with better safety ratings. Check out http://www.informedforlife.org/demos/FCKeditor/UserFiles/File/2007SCORE.pdf for more info.

Answer 7

I have said this many times Check Consumer Reports.Iam sure the Ford sales reps on this site will change there story when they change jobs and work for someone else. You dont bite the hand that feeds you...

Answer 8

If you are happy with a yukon, you are likely to be happy with expedition... if its 4.6/5.4 doesn't blow the spark plug through the hood - it's quite typical for them and does look nasty.