Used 2008 Ford Expedition EL

Although Ford’s Expedition (and other large, truck-based SUVs) may be in market decline, there remains a need for vehicles with their capabilities. In the 2008 Expedition, Ford hopes to meet or exceed that need and, not incidentally, hold onto its share of the market.

With the enhancements made to structure, suspension, steering and braking, the 2008 Expedition is far removed from its truck-derived predecessors. Despite the tall seating position, the driving impression feels connected to the road, helped in no small part by steering with a good degree of precision. Over-the-road comfort is good and the handling feels balanced. While we weren’t overwhelmed by the 5.4-liter V8’s acceleration while towing, the Expedition seemed fully up to the task.

Seats have been redesigned with improved contours, bigger bolsters (we’d still hope for a little more lateral support), softer cushions and upgraded materials. Additionally, seat-track travel has been increased for the driver’s side, and can now accommodate people from 4’11" to 6’4" tall. In the Eddie Bauer package, driver and passengers will enjoy tone-on-tone leather, attractive and legible instrumentation, a stylish center stack on the instrument panel and cup holders galore. Access to the third row is relatively easy and the seating is reasonably comfortable, even for adults. Opt for the EL variant and you’ll enjoy both a third row and lots of storage space behind it. Finally, some of the plastic textures, though not cheap, do not seem to quite match the expectations of a $45,000 price point.

While retaining the same basic architecture as the 2006 model, the new Expedition’s modifications are immediately recognizable. The most prominent alteration is the nose job, where Ford’s now-signature four-bar grille sits front and center. What Ford describes as "crisply-defined surfaces and chiseled good looks" certainly remain, though augmented by the raised "powerdome" hood, new headlamps and large wheel "lips." Finally, 20-inch rims are optionally available from the factory, so there’s no need to seek out the aftermarket variety.

Enhanced Utility

The EL’s 12-inch longer wheelbase and nearly 15 inches of additional length provide a huge improvement in capacity with little increase in cost or reduction in fuel efficiency. Sure, your garage may not accommodate the extra length, but that’s a small price to pay if you’re actually intending to use your full-size SUV.

Keyless Entry Keypad

No more worrying about where to hide your keyfob; with the keyless keypad entry system you can simply lock your keys and other items safely inside the vehicle. A preset combination entered via the door-mounted keypad unlocks the doors.

Redesigned front and rear suspensions, improved steering feel and bigger brakes enhance improvements to the frame’s structure. The AdvanceTrac stability control system with Roll Stability Control modulates braking and engine power to help maintain driver control in marginal conditions, particularly those involving slippery surfaces. Occupant protection is enhanced with seat-mounted front-side air bags and a three-row "safety canopy." Other standard features include keyless keypad entry, six-way power front seats, sliding center-section second-row seat and a 300-horsepower V8 engine.

Expedition buyers can choose an optional PowerFold third-row seat that folds flat with the touch of a button. In combination with an also-optional power liftgate, the departure from the mall or hardware store needn’t be so arduous. The independent rear suspension makes the flat-folding third row possible, because it takes up less space under the vehicle, and PowerFold and a powered liftgate make it convenient. Stand-alone options include a rear backup camera, DVD navigation, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, auto-leveling rear air suspension and a 340-watt audio system.

While the 5.4-liter V8 is certainly adequate, Ford’s one offering is overwhelmed by the multitude of choices available from Chevrolet, GMC and Dodge. The V8’s 300 horsepower and 365 lb.-ft. of torque are well-matched to the chassis, and that power is enhanced by a six-speed automatic, but the package falls short of GM’s 5.3-liter V8 (at least in horsepower), GM’s 6.0-liter V8 and Dodge’s 5.7-liter HEMI V8. The rumored release of a light-duty diesel within a couple of years might help, but not for a while.

5.4 liter V8
300 horsepower at 5000 rpm
365 lb.-ft. of torque at 3750 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 12/18 (2WD) N/A (4WD)