Right off the bat, the very first thing I did when I saw the 2015 Ford Expedition was squint to see the differences. Externally, there aren’t too many updates other than slightly updated trim, LED driving/fog lights and 22-inch wheels. All the new goodies are located under the skin. That’s where you’ll find the new 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 that makes 365 horsepower and 420 lbs-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic, is the only transmission available.
Despite being the only engine, it fills the shoes of a V8 nicely with a “Best-in-class” tow-rating of (up to) 9,200 lbs.
The 2015 Ford Expedition comes in four forms, both in two (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) with 119-inch or 131-inch configurations. Starting at about $40,000, you can get a base XLT 2WD and, if you max-out the options, you can get a 2015 Ford Expedition Platinum 4WD for around $63,000. The trim-levels are: XLT, Limited, King Ranch and Platinum. The 2015 Ford Expedition goes on sale at the end of September 2014.
One of the more impressive additions is the standard trailer brake control, located near the infotainment system. This, combined with the load-leveling system and the adjustable CCD ride control allow the the 2015 Ford Expedition to take full advantage of its utilitarian platform. The CCD ride control system allows the driver to instantly change the ride characteristics of the 2015 Ford Expedition from “Normal,” to “Comfort,” to “Sport” at a press of a button. It works well; however, even in “Sport” mode, the 2015 Ford Expedition wallows a bit.
From the inside, the 2015 Ford Expedition is quiet and comfortable. Unfortunately, Ford has kept many of the cheap plastics from the previous model – hurting its chances to beat the new, beautifully designed interior of the new Chevrolet Suburban. Pity, the new colors and fabrics are so nice that they call even more attention to the rough plastics.
As one of the few full-sized body-on-frame based SUVs out there, I was expecting a truck-like ride. Not in this case. The 2015 Ford Expedition was smooth, sophisticated and felt like a larger Ford Explorer. The power is just right for this platform, never feeling overtaxed while imparting a feel of good thrust when needed. Impressive.
The drive was brief and we know for sure that Ford is heading in the right direction with the 2015 Ford Expedition.
We’re looking forward to testing a 2015 Ford Expedition in Colorado where we can separate the men from the boys.
Can’t wait!
Speaking of new SUVs…
