2015 Ford Expedition EL
Ford climbs fast with the latest refresh of the Expedition.
2015 Ford Expedition EL
EPA ratings: 14/20mpg; 16mpg combined
0-60mph: 6.5 seconds
Price as tested: $68,090
With all the attention focused on the new GM fullsize SUVs, Ford’s Expedition and long wheelbase EL version have been overlooked. But a thorough mechanical refresh for 2015 makes it a compelling seven-passenger ride, especially if mountain driving is a regular part of your repertoire.
The Ford’s had a heart transplant; 3.5 liters of twin turbo fury now reside behind the fresh grill and headlights. Its 365hp and 420lb-ft of torque are much less affected by altitude than the V8s in the various GMs, which means it rips up any pass you can imagine.
The Expedition EL showed its copious talents during a 1,000-mile-plus odyssey pitting me against many of the most demanding stretches of pavement in Colorado’s great backyard. In addition to blitzing 12,000-foot passes—while passing everything in sight—it showed superb chassis tuning. The ride on the gorgeous 22-inch rims was excellent, the handling engaging and predictable.
Accurate steering made approaching the high cornering limits easy, and the brakes were indefatigable. While the Platinum tester had lots of nice features, such as heated and cooled seats covered in high-end hide, Ford’s penchant for cost-cutting showed in the cheap, hard plastics that make up most moldings—GM does it much better. But the three rows afforded plenty of comfort and room for my five passengers and their gear.
The Expedition EL’s six-speed automatic was much more adroit at getting to the meat of the EcoBoost’s output than GMs’ transmission, and our average of 19mpg was also very impressive, based upon the types or roads and frequently matted throttle employed to maintain near-record low elapsed times. With better ride and handling than the GMs—as well as a higher tow rating—the Ford is certainly worth a drive before dropping seventy-large on a Suburban.
Read more of Contributor Isaac Bouchard’s automotive writing on Colorado AvidGolfer's Nice Drives section with more car reviews and comparisons.
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