2019 Expedition Limited MAX

My Ford Expedition was covered in an Ingot Silver Metallic paint that contrasts the Ebony interior.

The Expedition Limited MAX 4X4 is an 8-passenger vehicle, motivated by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost turbo V6. The engine sends power down a 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission that offers manual gear selection. The combined city plus highway average fuel economy is rated at 18 mpg, which is not surprising given the resulting 400 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 480 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,500 rpm.

The MAX models are nearly a foot longer than regular Expeditions. It’s ready for adventure — the extra volume allows it to provide 16.9 cubic feet of space for gear weighing up to 1,860 pounds, and larger rear doors make it easier to get in and out. The roof-rack side rails complements the hands-free lift-gate. The running board is powered, and when deployed it is helpful with stepping into the cab. The 9,300 pounds of towing capability is top of its class.

Mounting would have been easier if there had been a handle to grasp. The leather-wrapped steering wheel moves, making for an unsteady grip point.

Power mirrors that automatically fold, LED taillights, and trailer sway control are additional standard features.

Expedition is beautiful at the approach with its five-bar chrome grille and chunky automatic headlamps.

Front occupants enjoy 10-way power adjustable heated/ventilated leather seats with memory. Great visibility accompanied by great comfort are offered. The second row is heated with power fold-down. They tip and slide. Oh yes!

Power folding third-row seat with memory joins and tri-zone auto climate control assures those sitting all the way back have not been forgotten.

The position of the foot pedals is power adjustable with memory settings, further catering to individual drivers.

However, the main info and control display is much too small for such a big, powerful vehicle. The technology portfolio is good and navigation is clear with strong colors and fonts. But again, the screen is much too small.

Fortunately even the small screen hasn’t hampered Ford from offering easily accessible technologies. SiriusXM provides entertainment and useful info, while voice-activated SYNC3 connects your tech with the world.

However, automatic windows, door locks, and outside mirror control were located on the driver’s door near the handle, to the lower left of the steering wheel. The buttons were either too small or too close to other controls to allow for quick and precise adjustments.

Four large knobs control audio and cabin temperature adjustments. These old-school controls made it quick and easy to set the perfect temperature and entertainment choices.

Interior lighting near the sun visors was adequate, but the cabin can use additional ceiling light for such a cavernous interior.

Safety and comfort amenities are numerous throughout the vehicle. These include Remote Start, B&O Sound System with 12 speakers, WiFi Hot Spot, rear view camera, and a comprehensive set of airbags, just to mention a few. Expedition rates Excellent on the governments collision testing.

You can take the Expedition just about anywhere. Whether driving through a snow gap in the Rockies on a family vacation, loading the whole team for a late afternoon game, or taking friends and their gear to a wilderness hunting camp. This handsome SUV is prepared to go. Off-road suspension accompanied by the Terrain Management System will allow you to make your own road when going off road.

Warranty
3-year/36,000-mile Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty
5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Warranty
5-year/60,000-mile Roadside Assistance

Durhl Caussey writes a car column read around the world. He may be reached at this paper or [email protected].