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The Ford Expedition was introduced to vehicle buyers in 1997. It is a
full-size SUV that offers consumers a model choice between the Ford Explorer and
the larger Ford Excursion. These types of vehicles became very popular starting
in the 1990s, even though they are expensive to fill up at the pumps.
Similar to the Lincoln Navigator, the Expedition has sold a million units since
2004. Consumers appreciate this model's spacious interior, generous space for
hauling cargo, and impressive towing capacity. Fire departments and law
enforcement agencies have been buying a version of the Ford Expedition, known as
the Special Service Vehicle, which has been modified to suit their needs. The
Expedition is built at Ford Motor Company's plant in Wayne, Michigan.
The Expedition was put in the market as a replacement for the Ford Bronco. This
vehicle can carry up to eight people comfortably if the third rear seat is used.
Drivers can tow up to 8,000 lbs.
For the 1999 model year, the Expedition was given an upgrade. Engines (4.6L and
5.4L) offered more power while delivering the same fuel efficiency (14 mpg
combined city and highway) as previous versions. The front fascia and grill were
updated. The bumper was equipped with fog lamps.
The 2003 Ford Expedition was built on the same platform as the Ford U, which
gave this model an 8,300 lb. towing capacity. Power folding third row seats and
turn signal mirror lights were introduced at this point. Another change for this
model year was an upgraded rear axle and suspension, which resulted in a
smoother ride.
Starting in 2005, the 4.6 L V8 engine was discontinued. All Ford Explorers are
powered by a 5.4 L V8 engine instead. The latter has been updated to include
24-valve technology. An optional feature available starting in 2005 was the
AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control.
A third generation of Ford Explorers became available starting in August of
2006. It was based on the T1 platform. A 5.4 L Triton V8 engine provides 300 hp
and gives this model a towing capacity of 9,100 lbs. This introduced at the
Houston Auto Show because a significant number (20 percent) of Ford Explorers
are sold to vehicle buyers in Texas.
The first new 2007 model Ford Expedition to come off the assembly line was
donated by the company to a family featured on the television show Extreme
Makeover: Home Edition. The show, featuring the Peter family from Jamaica,
Queens, New York, was broadcast on May 7, 2006. Wondering if the 2008 Fred
Expedition has made any concessions with the current fuel crunch? They are
minimal with a current 16 mpg for city and highway driving combined. |
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