While the image is useful, obstacles are not as easy to spot as they are in systems that show their images on six- or seven-inch dash-mounted screens. Variable boost power steering also improves maneuverability. I would advise Ford to add an option for a proportional brake controller vs needing third party product. Still, the Expedition's overall driving performance is quite refined for its class. That's nice on long drives.
Other standard safety features include side-impact airbags and a three-row Safety Canopy rollover detection system with stability control. All Expedition models come with a 5. I didn't understand why they were great until I had one, now I won't ever not have one again. Although the 2011 Ford Expedition lacks up-to-date crash-test results, it continues to have a strong set of safety features. The is also a fitting rival to the 2011 Expedition.
All Expeditions are powered by a 5. The Expedition's big, boxy exterior is handsomely adorned in chrome, color-keyed trim and a lot of glass. Dealer was not punctual in replacing them! In this regard, the Ford Expedition tracks down the highway with excellent straight-line stability, negotiates forest roads with surprising agility, and absorbs impacts from bumps or broken pavement without straying from its path. Despite its size, driving the Expedition is relatively easy—thanks to light but precise steering, and a suspension that does a great job reeling all that weight in. The ride of the Expedition is certainly no match for the newer generation of car-based crossovers, but it rides better than other body-on-frame trucks. The Eddie Bauer edition has been dropped. The engine can deliver 310 horsepower at 5100 rpm and 365 pound-feet of torque at 3600 rpm.
This is a good identity to have, because Ford trucks continue to have an outstanding reputation for utility, reliability and durability. Power retractable running boards that deploy when the doors are opened are optional. The layout of the gauges and controls is easy to understand and no controls are too far out of easy reach. A single piece rear hatch can be ordered with a power lift feature. The 6-speed automatic transmission runs seamlessly through the gears, keeping the engine from laboring through its rpm range. Ford's rear backup camera is less impressive than many others.
When it comes to driving, the Expedition feels big and heavy, which it is. The Expedition makes an excellent tow vehicle. Starts better in cold weather on regular. The Expedition is also available with an optional power-folding third-row seat and electronically powered liftgate to make it even easier to load cargo. This third-generation Expedition features a three-bar grille, large headlights, and a domed hood that combine to deliver a look that's both distinctive and respectable. Turn radius is awesome in narrow streets or when making a U turn; not a problem for this big monster.
It makes an excellent tow vehicle, smooth and stable, with tow capacities in the 9,000-pound range. With the recently updated enhancements made to structure, suspension, steering and braking, the 2011 Ford Expedition is far removed from its truck-derived predecessors. It we came to a stop sign at the top of a hill, stopped, then accelerated, there was sometimes a pause while the transmission engaged and forward momentum began. An optional power liftgate is also available. Trailer Sway Control and the MyKey programmable key system —which allows parents to limit vehicle speed and audio volume, among other things — are also standard.
Expedition was last redesigned for the 2007 model year. A PowerFold third-row seat is optional, allowing it to fold flat with the touch of a button, while a new, redesigned power liftgate is also available. A keyless entry keypad, heated power mirrors, air conditioning, an electrochromic rearview mirror, illuminated visors, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel are all standard across the Expedition range. Last year, the Expedition gained Ford's Trailer Sway Control as a standard feature; it works in conjunction with the Expedition's stability control to detect trailer sway through the motions of the vehicle and to take measures—such as applying precise braking and reducing engine torque—to bring both vehicle and trailer under control. The suspension does a splendid job of soaking up irregularities while keeping the back wheels glued to the road over rough surfaces, with none of the nervous hopping that characterizes solid-axle designs.
That said, much of it depends on use. Change or go the way of the Aztek. In the Limited and King Ranch trims, driver and passengers will enjoy plush leather seating surfaces, cup holders galore, attractive and legible instrumentation and a stylish center stack and instrument panel. The cabin features rich materials and generous space in all three seating rows. As good as it is, the Expedition certainly isn't sporty and no one should expect it to be. Every Expedition is powered by a single-overhead-cam 5.