2016 Ford Expedition
The 2016 Ford Expedition is a full-size, body-on-frame SUV designed for capability, passenger comfort, and cargo hauling. It offers a blend of ruggedness and refinement, making it a versatile choice for families and those who need to tow or transport large loads.
Highlights
- Powertrain: The heart of the 2016 Expedition is a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. Despite being a V6, this twin-turbocharged powerhouse delivers an impressive 365 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. This ample power is more than competitive with many V8 engines found in rivals, offering both strong acceleration and respectable towing capability. It's paired with a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and the option for manual control.
- Safety Features:
- Ford's Safety Canopy System: This includes side-curtain airbags for all three rows, designed to protect occupants in side-impact collisions and rollovers.
- AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control (RSC): This system uses sensors to monitor vehicle movement and can help prevent rollovers and maintain stability, especially when carrying heavy loads or in adverse weather.
- Rearview Camera: Standard on all trims, this aids in backing up and parking by providing a clear view of the area behind the vehicle.
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert: Available on higher trims, BLIS uses radar to detect vehicles in your blind spots and alerts you. Cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space.
- Trims:
- XL: The base model, providing essential comfort and capability.
- XLT: Offers a significant upgrade in features, including more creature comforts and convenience options.
- Limited: Steps up the luxury with premium materials, advanced technology, and more standard features.
- Platinum: The top-tier trim, boasting the most luxurious appointments, advanced driver aids, and a premium driving experience.
- Towing and Hauling: With its robust EcoBoost V6 and body-on-frame construction, the 2016 Expedition boasts impressive maximum towing capacity of up to 9,200 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it an excellent choice for towing large trailers, boats, or campers. It also offers ample cargo space, especially with the second and third rows folded.
- Independent Rear Suspension: A key technological advantage for the 2016 Expedition is its independent rear suspension. This design contributes to a more refined ride quality and better handling compared to solid rear axles, making it more comfortable for daily driving and long journeys.
- SYNC Infotainment System: Ford's SYNC system (SYNC or SYNC with MyFord Touch depending on trim) provides access to audio, climate control, phone connectivity, and navigation.
What to Expect
Owning a 2016 Ford Expedition is generally characterized by a comfortable and capable driving experience. The EcoBoost V6 provides ample power for merging onto highways and for hauling passengers and cargo without struggle. The independent rear suspension contributes to a surprisingly smooth and composed ride for a vehicle of its size, absorbing road imperfections effectively.
- Maintenance: Like most full-size SUVs, the Expedition will require routine maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, and brake inspections. Given its robust nature, expect typical maintenance costs associated with large vehicles. Following Ford's recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for longevity. Issues can arise as with any vehicle, but many owners find the Expedition to be a reliable choice when properly maintained.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2016 Ford Expedition will likely be higher than for smaller sedans or crossovers, due to its size, weight, engine power, and replacement part costs. Factors like your driving record, location, and chosen coverage levels will significantly influence your premium.
Potential Considerations
- Fuel Economy: While the EcoBoost V6 is more efficient than a comparable V8, the 2016 Expedition is still a large, heavy SUV. Fuel economy will be a consideration, particularly in city driving. Official EPA estimates were in the mid-to-high teens for combined city/highway driving.
- Size and Maneuverability: While it offers impressive capability, the Expedition's full-size dimensions can make it challenging to maneuver and park in tight urban environments or crowded parking lots. Its turning radius is also larger than smaller vehicles.
- Interior Materials (Base Trims): While higher trims like the Limited and Platinum offer premium materials, the lower XL and XLT trims may feature more utilitarian interior plastics that might not feel as upscale to some buyers.
- Infotainment Lag (Older SYNC versions): Some earlier versions of Ford's SYNC system, particularly SYNC with MyFord Touch, could sometimes exhibit sluggish response times or occasional glitches. However, updates and newer versions generally improved this.
Overall Summary
The 2016 Ford Expedition is a formidable contender in the full-size SUV segment, offering a compelling blend of potent performance from its EcoBoost V6, impressive towing capabilities, and a more refined ride thanks to its independent rear suspension. It excels at transporting families and their gear comfortably and safely, making it a practical choice for those who require versatility and strength. While fuel economy and maneuverability in tight spaces are factors to consider, the Expedition's overall package of capability, comfort, and advanced features (especially in higher trims) makes it a highly recommendable option for buyers in its class.
