• Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar

Auto Trends Magazine

Car reviews, industry news, & advice.

You are here: Home / New Car Reviews / Recalibrated SUV: 2015 Ford Expedition

Recalibrated SUV: 2015 Ford Expedition

April 27, 2015 by admin 2 Comments

For 2015, the Ford Expedition continues with its traditional body-on-frame construction. Several updates, including a turbocharged V-6 engine, give this vehicle a lease on life. A more comprehensive revision is needed, one that may still be two or three years away. Sales, however, have not suffered for this big SUV.

2015 Ford Expedition

The refreshed 2015 Ford Expedition.

Full-size, traditional body-on-frame sport utility vehicles were supposed to have been on the way out and for a few salient reasons: they typically are less fuel efficient than unibody crossover utility vehicles, and offer smaller cabin space than CUVs. Furthermore, they also consume more gasoline than commensurable models.

However, body-on-frame SUVs provide superior towing capabilities. Therefore, such vehicles have received a reprieve in the past year, especially as gas prices have fallen to almost half the rate drivers were paying just a few years ago. As one result, Ford Expedition sales rose by 16.4 percent to 44,632 units in 2014 and are up 10 percent through March 2015. Moreover, sales should approach 50,000 units for a model that once looked as if it were on the way out just a few years ago.

2015 Ford Expedition

The Ford Expedition, along with its upscale Lincoln Navigator sibling, were refreshed for the 2015 model year. Both full-size SUVs are based on the same platform released in 2007, what makes for a long model run for these vehicles.

Ford could have brought forth a fourth generation Expedition, but the automaker has poured its resources into producing an all-new, aluminum-bodied Ford F-150. That verdict effectively allows Ford to buy itself some time, perhaps another three years before extending the current F-150’s platform to the Expedition.

Given that Ford rolled out an update, the changes for the Ford Expedition are not comprehensive, but are still noteworthy.

2015 Ford Expedition

Exterior and Interior Updates

The most significant changes begin with the exterior, with an updated and more pronounced front fascia. However, from pillar to pillar the look is unchanged and the Expedition’s visage has aged. Indeed, place the Ford Expedition next to its chief rival, the Chevrolet Suburban, and the Chevy is easily the more modern looking of the two.

Inside, the cabin is refreshed and provides space for eight. An extended wheelbase version, the EL, adds no room to the cabin space, but extends the storage compartment by a foot. Yet, the cabin is already roomy with seating for two up front and seating for three each in the second and third rows. Ford also allows you to swop the middle row seat for a pair of captain’s chairs.

The 2015 Ford Expedition is priced from $44,585 and is sold in XLT, Limited ($54,180), King Ranch ($58,410) and Platinum ($59,370) editions. Add about $3,000 to the price to obtain a 4×4 model and another $2,650 for the extended wheelbase edition. Available packages and upgrades include a dual-headrest DVD system by Invision ($1,995), the second-row Captain’s chairs ($795), a rear load-leveling suspension ($280) and 22-inch polished aluminum wheels ($2,610). Consequently, your final price could approach $70,000 or just a few thousand dollars below the comparable Lincoln Navigator.

2015 Ford Expedition

New Technologies and a Quiet Interior

Interior updates include the latest SYNC infotainment system with a MyFord Touch update, what brings in an 8-inch color display for that system. The system also includes a pair of full-color 4.2-inch screens in the instrument gauge.

Available technologies include passive entry with push button start, a Sony audio system, a rear view camera, front and rear parking sensors, ambient LED lighting and Ford apps, the latter useful for trailer towing and off-road driving.

A new leather option package — Brunello leather-appointed seating in red wine with exclusive accents and French-stitching or Ebony seats with gray accents — is also available.

Ford claims that the interior is quieter than ever as the Expedition benefits from sound-deadening materials added to two areas: the headliner and to the door trim panels. Furthermore, new carpeting also absorbs noise. Acoustic glass for the driver and front passenger windows also mitigates sound in all versions above the standard XLT edition.

2015 Ford Expedition


2015 Ford Expedition

View manufacturer details and pricing


2015 Ford Expedition

EcoBoost Engine Technology

Another important change is found under the hood. The big Ford has long represented V-8 power, but for 2015 the aged 5.4-liter V-8 engine making 310 horsepower has been replaced by a turbocharged V-6 engine. That engine, displacing at 3.5 liters, makes 365 horsepower. Two turbochargers, direct fuel injection and variable valve technology combine to optimize horsepower, what Ford calls “EcoBoost” technology. Ford pairs this engine with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The improved power from a smaller footprint results in a boost to fuel economy too. Indeed, where the previous model was rated 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway, the 2015 Ford Expedition is rated 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg in the highway. A more modern transmission would have extended that range too, but that’s perhaps a year or two away. Thus, achieving 25 mpg on the highway may someday be attainable, an unthinkable goal for a gasoline engine powering a ponderous SUV.

Ford’s EcoBoost technology has been around for six years. And in every application it has brought more power and better fuel economy to the respective vehicle line. Indeed, with the Expedition, you have strong off-the-mark acceleration with the added boost kicking in at 2,250 RPM. In fact, the 420 foot-pounds of torque offers approximately 20 percent more highway power than the previous model.

The result is a more powerful powertrain combination, one that is more modern and better suited than the previous arrangement. Will you miss the V-8? No, not at all.

2015 Ford Expedition

Available Continuously Damping System

Another area where the 2015 Expedition has received a much-needed change to the suspension system comes by providing a continuously controlled damping system with three drive modes — comfort, normal and sport. Specifically, this exceptional system automatically adjusts damping by analyzing the vehicle’s weight, the steering feedback and road fluctuations to disburse body and wheel roll to provide a superior ride.

The electric power-assisted steering system is also new, what provides improved maneuverability when driving at low speeds to bolstered up feel at higher speeds. Equally, this translates into ease of steering effort and a more engaging drive.

2015 Ford Expedition

The Ford Expedition Trailering Advantage

And as for towing, this SUV offers 6,000 pounds of standard towing capacity, extendable to 9,200 pounds when the optional heavy-duty trailer towing package is selected. On the other hand, Ford’s largest crossover, the Explorer, pulls up to 5,000 pounds. Thus, for the best combination of heavy-duty towing and maximum passenger space and payload, the Ford Expedition wins hands down.

2015 Ford Expedition 4×4

  • Sticker price from $63,640
  • Price as tested: from $67,810
  • Seats 7 occupants
  • 3.5-liter 24-valve twin turbocharged V-6 gasoline engine
  • 365 horsepower @ 5,000 RPM
  • 420 foot-pounds of torque @ 2,250 RPM
  • 3.64 inches bore by 3.41 inches stroke
  • Engine compression ratio: 10.0-to-1
  • 6-speed automatic transmission
  • Wheelbase: 119 inches
  • Length: 206.0 inches
  • Width: 78.8 inches
  • Height: 77.2 inches
  • Passenger volume: 160.3 cubic feet
  • Storage volume: 18.6/55.0/108.3 cubic feet
  • Towing capacity: Up to 9,200 pounds
  • EPA: 15 mpg city, 20 mpg highway
  • Regular grade gasoline
  • Fuel tank: 28 gallons
  • Curb weight: From 5,846 pounds
  • IIHS safety rating: Not Rated
  • Limited vehicle warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles
  • Powertrain warranty: 5 years/60,000 miles
  • Corrosion warranty: 5 years/Unlimited miles
  • Vehicle assembly: Louisville, Kentucky

2015 Ford Expedition photos copyright Auto Trends Magazine.

Filed Under: New Car Reviews Tagged With: 2015 SUV, ECOBOOST ENGINE, Ford Expedition, LINCOLN NAVIGATOR, sport utility vehicle, SUV, TURBOCHARGED ENGINE, V-6 ENGINE

About admin

Matt Keegan has maintained his love for cars ever since his father taught him kicking tires can be one way to uncover a problem with a vehicle’s suspension system. He since moved on to learn a few things about coefficient of drag, G-forces, toe-heel shifting, and how to work the crazy infotainment system in some random weekly driver. Matt is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association and is a contributor to various print and online media sources.

Reader Interactions

Trackbacks

  1. Nissan Armada Reprise: Platinum Style says:
    March 6, 2017 at 3:00 pm

    […] this full-size sport utility vehicle, a model that competes with the likes of the Toyota Sequoia, Ford Expedition, Chevrolet Tahoe, and the GMC […]

    Log in to Reply
  2. 2016 GMC Yukon XL Denali Redux says:
    April 9, 2017 at 5:59 pm

    […] models in this segment include the Toyota Land Cruiser, Ford Expedition, and the Nissan Armada. Only the Expedition offers an extended wheelbase version similar to the […]

    Log in to Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Primary Sidebar

Recent Posts

  • The 14 Brands of Stellantis
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • GM Launches BrightDrop, Its Commercial EV Brand
  • The Refreshed and Handsome
    Lexus IS 350 F Sport

Recent Comments

  • How Expectant Parents Can Save Money On a Family Car – Healthy Fit Fab Moms on Where Can I Find My Car Paint Code?
  • Fiat Chrysler Peugeot: Now What? — Auto Trends Magazine on Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Peugeot Prepares for its U.S. Return — Auto Trends Magazine on Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All — Auto Trends Magazine on Stellantis Logo Revealed by Peugeot, Fiat Chrysler Ahead of Spring Merger
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All — Auto Trends Magazine on What We Know About the All-New 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L

Archives

  • January 2021
  • December 2020
  • November 2020
  • October 2020
  • September 2020
  • August 2020
  • July 2020
  • June 2020
  • May 2020
  • April 2020
  • March 2020
  • February 2020
  • January 2020
  • December 2019
  • November 2019
  • October 2019
  • September 2019
  • August 2019
  • July 2019
  • June 2019
  • May 2019
  • April 2019
  • March 2019
  • February 2019
  • January 2019
  • December 2018
  • November 2018
  • October 2018
  • September 2018
  • August 2018
  • July 2018
  • June 2018
  • May 2018
  • April 2018
  • March 2018
  • February 2018
  • January 2018
  • December 2017
  • November 2017
  • October 2017
  • September 2017
  • August 2017
  • July 2017
  • June 2017
  • May 2017
  • April 2017
  • March 2017
  • February 2017
  • January 2017
  • December 2016
  • November 2016
  • October 2016
  • September 2016
  • August 2016
  • July 2016
  • June 2016
  • May 2016
  • April 2016
  • March 2016
  • February 2016
  • January 2016
  • December 2015
  • November 2015
  • October 2015
  • September 2015
  • August 2015
  • July 2015
  • June 2015
  • May 2015
  • April 2015
  • March 2015
  • February 2015
  • January 2015
  • December 2014
  • November 2014
  • October 2014
  • September 2014
  • August 2014
  • July 2014
  • June 2014
  • May 2014
  • April 2014
  • March 2014
  • February 2014
  • January 2014
  • December 2013
  • November 2013
  • October 2013
  • September 2013
  • August 2013
  • July 2013
  • June 2013
  • May 2013
  • April 2013
  • March 2013
  • February 2013
  • January 2013
  • December 2012
  • November 2012
  • October 2012
  • September 2012
  • August 2012
  • July 2012
  • June 2012
  • May 2012
  • April 2012
  • March 2012
  • February 2012
  • January 2012
  • December 2011
  • November 2011
  • October 2011
  • September 2011
  • August 2011
  • July 2011
  • June 2011
  • May 2011
  • April 2011
  • March 2011
  • February 2011
  • January 2011
  • December 2010
  • November 2010
  • October 2010
  • September 2010
  • August 2010
  • July 2010
  • June 2010
  • May 2010
  • April 2010
  • March 2010
  • February 2010
  • January 2010
  • December 2009
  • November 2009
  • October 2009
  • September 2009
  • August 2009
  • July 2009
  • June 2009
  • May 2009
  • April 2009
  • March 2009
  • February 2009
  • January 2009
  • December 2008
  • November 2008
  • October 2008
  • September 2008
  • August 2008
  • July 2008
  • June 2008
  • May 2008
  • April 2008

Categories

  • Auto Parts
  • Auto Shows
  • Automotive Career
  • Automotive News
  • Book Reviews
  • Car Tips
  • Classics & Discontinued Models
  • Commentary
  • Commercial Vehicles
  • Concept Vehicles
  • Dealers
  • Engineering & Technology
  • Fleet
  • Fun News
  • Maintenance & Repairs
  • Motorsport
  • New Car Reviews
  • New Models
  • Ownership Experience
  • Product Reviews
  • Special
  • Specifications
  • Uncategorized

Meta

  • Log in
  • Entries feed
  • Comments feed
  • WordPress.org

New!
Check out our Jobs Board!

via GIPHY

Subscribe to Auto Trends

Subscribe in a reader

Social Media

Visit our social media pages:
Facebook
Twitter
Google+
Pinterest

Where is Matt Currently Published?

The Carolinian (new car reviews)
NAPA Know How Blog
On the Road Again

Pages

  • About
  • Authors List
  • Automotive Brochures
  • Contact
  • Industry Jobs
  • Write
    • Style Guide

Categories

Recent Posts

  • The 14 Brands of Stellantis
  • Peugeot May Not Return to the U.S. Market After All
  • Next-Generation Sedona Minivan Will Be Renamed the Kia Carnival
  • GM Launches BrightDrop, Its Commercial EV Brand
  • The Refreshed and Handsome
    Lexus IS 350 F Sport
  • What We Know About the All-New 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
  • The All-New and Formidable 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • Fuel-Efficiency and AWD Champion: 2021 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
  • Midsize Performance Master: 2021 Hyundai Sonata N-Line
  • Performance Hatchback: The All-New 2021 Mazda Mazda3 Turbo!
  • NACTOY Finalists For 2021 Offer Familiar and Futuristic Choices
  • Super Trooper: Nissan Titan Pickup
  • Behind the Wheel of the Popular 2021 Toyota Corolla Sedan
  • Lucid Motors Completes Arizona Factory
  • A Robust Turbodiesel Comes to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500
  • Mid-Engine Masterpiece: The Eighth-Generation Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
  • Compact Performance:
    2021 Cadillac CT4-V
  • All-Wheel Drive Supplies the Nissan Altima With a Competitive Edge
  • Return of the Toyota Venza!
  • Lexus Brings a Convertible to the Gorgeous LC 500 Line
  • Stellantis Logo Revealed by Peugeot, Fiat Chrysler Ahead of Spring Merger
  • Preview: 2021 Nissan Rogue Crossover
  • How to Fix a Broken Rivian Vehicle
  • Cadillac Gets Most Things Right
    With the XT6 Crossover
  • The High Potency Dodge Challenger SRT Hellcat Redeye Widebody Coupe
  • The All-New Chevrolet Trailblazer Forges Urban Paths
  • The Small Infiniti QX50 is Big on Tech and Engineering Features
  • Toyota Brings the TRD Treatment to the Midsize Camry Sedan
  • The Kia K5 Outclasses Most Competitors, Including the Departing Optima
  • Can the Toyota RAV4 TRD Off-Road Handle Tough Terrain?
  • Subaru WRX Showcases Its Performance Chops
  • Infiniti Overhauls QX80 Trims and Makes This Important Safety Feature Standard
  • Ford F-250 Super Duty and a Trail-Stomping Tremor Package
  • A Cut Above: Mazda’s Mazda3
  • The Highly Efficient Hyundai Ioniq
  • Volkswagen Atlas Revels in its Strengths
  • General Motors Deepens Partnership With Honda, Takes Stake in Nikola
  • Smart Concept: Jeep Grand Wagoneer
  • More Than an Encore: Buick Encore GX
  • Got a Recall? There’s an App for That.
  • Refreshed Nissan Titan Makes Its Case
  • BMW M235i: Not Your Typical Coupe
  • Hot Stuff: Lexus RC F Sport Coupe
  • Will the Electric Vehicle Boom Create New-Found Dependencies for Foreign Minerals?
  • Rumors? We Got Them!
  • About Bollinger Motors, EV Startup
  • Raptor Fighter: Ram 1500 TRX!
  • White Space Wonder: 2020 Nissan Rogue Sport
  • About the 2021 Genesis GV80
  • The Toyota Supra Gets a Four-Cylinder Engine and We’re Simply Gobsmacked!
April 2015
S M T W T F S
 1234
567891011
12131415161718
19202122232425
2627282930  
« Mar   May »

Copyright © 2021 · News Pro on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in