By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos Ford USA Media
For 2015 Ford Expedition offers a refreshed new look, a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, and a quieter cabin with more technology than previous-generation vehicles. It will be the latest Ford nameplate to offer a high end Platinum series.
Exterior
The standard 2015 Expedition, one of two versions available, has three rows of seats and up to 108.3 cubic feet of cargo space. It sits on a 119-inch wheelbase, making it a little more than 6 inches longer than Ford Explorer. A longer-wheelbase version, 131 inches has three rows of seats and best-in-class maximum cargo space of 130.8 cubic feet.
The exterior has been updated for 2015 with a front end design that features available halogen projector headlamps and LED fog lamps for a fresh, aggressive look.
Other changes include an all-new wheel lineup topped by optional, factory-installed 22- inch polished aluminum wheels for Limited, King Ranch and Platinum; a revised rear hatch; and subtle, chrome-tipped exhaust.
Interior
The new Expedition takes full-size utility vehicle design to a higher level with a diverse lineup of vehicles, each featuring a distinct look and feel to give customers more choices. A Platinum trim will be available on Expedition for the first time.
With tailored, lush leather that’s soft and smooth to the touch, the Platinum series offers customers a choice: Brunello leather-appointed seats in a new red wine color with tuxedo-stripe accents and French-seamed stitching, or Ebony leather-appointed seats with Agate Gray accents.
The new Expedition debuts with popular technology upgrades, including available SYNC with MyFord Touch and driver-assist features such as radar-based Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert.
The updated interior incorporates a fresh center stack to accommodate new technologies, including an available 8-inch touch screen for SYNC with MyFord Touch that features driver information in the gauge cluster shown on two full-color 4.2-inch screens.
Other available new technologies include a Sony Audio System; passive entry with push-button start; rear view camera; front and rear parking sensors; seven-color, ambient interior LED lighting; and Ford truck apps to help make trailer towing and off-road driving easier.
Engine and Transmission
The 2015 Expedition was engineered to be a technologically advanced utility that is easy to drive and offers refinement for all types of drivers.
The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 will be the only engine offered in Expedition in North America. To maximize performance and control; the vehicle will be equipped with a six-speed electShift automatic transmission featuring a manual mode that allows the driver to use a shift-mounted rocker switch to select the desired gear.
With the new powerplant, Expedition will be among the full-size SUV leaders for capability, generating 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque. Add best-in-class maximum cargo space for the extended-length version and available best-in-class towing of up to 9,200 pounds when properly equipped.
Summary
Ford is building on a successful tradition of Expedition capability and quality with significant improvements in design, performance, efficiency and technology to bring customers a full-size utility they want to get into when hitting the open road.
The EcoBoost engine will bring increased torque and horsepower, thanks to improved efficiencies and an independent rear suspension, the 2015 Expedition is not only more fun to drive, it’s also easier to own.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $63,640.00, for the 2015 Expedition Platinum EL 4X4, the one I drove included the 22 Inch Polished Aluminum Wheel, and it came in at $68,015.00 including destination and delivery charges. The EPA fuel economy estimates 14 MPG city and 20 MPG highway with the 3.5 Liter Ecoboost V6 Engine.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
