2017 Ford Expedition: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2017 Ford Expedition stands as a full-size, body-on-frame SUV renowned for its robust capabilities, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. It's a vehicle designed for families and those who require significant towing and hauling capacity without compromising on passenger comfort. For 2017, the Expedition received some mid-cycle refreshes, including updated styling and improved technology features, making it a compelling option in its segment.
Highlights
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Engine and Performance: The heart of the 2017 Expedition is a potent 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This twin-turbocharged powerhouse delivers a robust 365 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission, this powertrain offers impressive acceleration for its size and class, along with surprisingly good fuel efficiency for a full-size SUV. The Expedition is available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations, further enhancing its versatility. Its substantial towing capacity, rated up to 9,200 pounds when properly equipped, makes it an excellent choice for hauling boats, campers, or other large items.
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Safety Features: Ford equipped the 2017 Expedition with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect occupants. Key features include:
- Airbags: A full complement of airbags, including front, side-impact, and third-row curtain airbags, provides comprehensive occupant protection.
- Antilock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheels from locking up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Helps the driver maintain control of the vehicle in slippery conditions by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels and reducing engine power if it detects the vehicle is skidding.
- Traction Control: Works with ESC to limit wheel spin during acceleration, improving grip on various surfaces.
- Rearview Camera: Standard on all trims, aiding in safe reversing and parking.
- Available Advanced Safety Features: Depending on the trim, buyers could opt for features like Blind-Spot Information System (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert, which warns of vehicles in the blind spots or approaching from the sides when backing out of a parking space. Lane-Keeping Assist was also an option, helping to prevent unintentional lane departures.
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Trim Summary: The 2017 Expedition was offered in four distinct trims, each building upon the previous one in terms of features and amenities:
- XL: The entry-level trim, providing the core Expedition functionality and capabilities. It serves as a solid foundation for those seeking pure utility.
- XLT: A popular mid-range option, the XLT adds more creature comforts and convenience features, such as a power-adjustable driver's seat, satellite radio, and Ford's SYNC infotainment system.
- Limited: Stepping up, the Limited trim enhances the interior with premium materials like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power liftgate. It offers a more upscale and refined experience.
- Platinum: The pinnacle of the Expedition lineup, the Platinum trim lavishes occupants with the utmost luxury, featuring perforated leather seats, a panoramic vista roof, advanced driver-assist technologies, and enhanced styling cues.
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Other Notable Aspects:
- Spacious and Versatile Interior: The Expedition boasts a cavernous cabin with three rows of seating, comfortably accommodating up to eight passengers. The second and third-row seats offer ample legroom and headroom, and the second-row seats can slide and recline for added flexibility.
- Independent Rear Suspension: Unlike many traditional body-on-frame SUVs, the 2017 Expedition features an independent rear suspension. This contributes significantly to a smoother, more car-like ride and improved handling, especially when compared to solid rear axles.
- SYNC 3 Infotainment System: Higher trims benefited from the user-friendly and responsive SYNC 3 infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and voice-activated commands, making connectivity and entertainment seamless.
What to Expect
Owning a 2017 Ford Expedition typically involves experiencing the benefits of a large, capable SUV. The ride quality is generally praised for its comfort, absorbing road imperfections effectively, making it ideal for long road trips. The EcoBoost V6 provides ample power for everyday driving and towing.
Maintenance: As with most full-size SUVs, routine maintenance will involve oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks. The robust nature of the Expedition generally translates to good long-term durability. However, some components, particularly those related to the EcoBoost engine and the more complex electronic systems, may require specialized knowledge for repair. Following the recommended maintenance schedule in the owner's manual is crucial for ensuring longevity and optimal performance.
Insurance: Insurance premiums for a 2017 Ford Expedition will likely be higher than for smaller vehicles due to its size, cost of replacement parts, and potential for higher repair costs in the event of an accident. Factors such as your driving record, age, location, and chosen insurance coverage will significantly impact your monthly premiums.
Potential Considerations
- Fuel Economy: While the EcoBoost V6 is efficient for its class, the 2017 Expedition is still a large, heavy vehicle. Owners should expect fuel economy figures to be lower than those of mid-size SUVs or sedans, especially in city driving conditions.
- Maneuverability: Despite its independent rear suspension, the Expedition's substantial exterior dimensions can make it challenging to maneuver in tight parking lots or navigate narrow city streets. A good understanding of its turning radius and the use of its rearview camera and parking sensors are highly recommended.
- Third-Row Access: While the third row offers decent space, getting into and out of it can still be a bit of a climb, particularly for older individuals or those with mobility issues. The sliding and folding mechanism for the second-row seats helps, but it's not as effortless as in some unibody SUVs.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Ford Expedition is a highly competent and comfortable full-size SUV that excels in its core mission of transporting families and their gear with ease. Its powerful yet efficient EcoBoost V6 engine, impressive towing capacity, spacious interior, and comfortable ride make it a compelling choice for those who need a versatile and capable vehicle. While its fuel economy and maneuverability are factors to consider, the Expedition remains a strong contender for anyone in the market for a well-rounded, American-made large SUV.