Auto review By Veeno Dewan
For 2022 Ford refreshes its flagship full-size Expedition SUV, with more tech, features and off-road capability. The exterior is updated with new styling cues such as standard LED headlights, new taillights, and unique wheel designs for specific trims levels. Also, the Expedition can now receive over-the-air software updates. (Just like a Tesla!). The new and updated technology and driver assistance aids are part of a big push to keep the Expedition competitive in this sector. The three-row Expedition comes in regular length or as the extended-wheelbase Expedition Max, with similar passenger space but more cargo room.
Power is courtesy of a new high output 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine borrowed from the F-150 Raptor, making a class leading 440 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque. Four-wheel drive is standard. The Expedition can tow up to 9,200 lb and carry a payload of up to 1,758 lbs when equipped with the available Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.
The new Expedition elevates itself above competitors with a big range of models. New is the Timberline series with the best available ground clearance in its class and is aimed at the outdoor set with its 33-inch tires a heavy-duty skid plate from the Ford Raptor, and a two-speed transfer case transmission.
Also new is the Stealth Edition Performance Package that delivers more performance and horsepower with a high-output EcoBoost engine, a sport-tuned suspension, and dual exhausts. It rides on 22-inch black wheels with red brake calipers and features glossy black accents for that stealth look.
We tested a top-level Platinum model featuring a new twin-spar mesh grille, fog lamps and chrome accents on the interior. The Platinum model comes with an incredible array of luxury features and technology. In terms of multimedia, the available SYNC 4a system is featured with a 15.5-inch, vertically oriented centre touch screen, which is the largest in class. Available features include a12.4-inch digital instrument cluster, and rear entertainment system. The Timberline, Stealth Performance, and Platinum trims come standard with a 22-speaker Bang & Olufsen Unleashed sound system. Part of the new tech package for the 2022 Expedition Platinum is Ford’s BlueCruise. This driver aid utilises adaptive cruise control, stop-and-go, lane-centering and speed-sign recognition to allow true hands-free driving when activated on more than 160,000 kilometres of pre-qualified sections of divided highways throughout North America, called Hands-Free Blue Zones.
Every 2022 Ford Expedition comes with standard and available driver-assist features. These include Road Edge Detection, Intersection Assist: and Reverse Brake Assist. The Expedition also has an impressive list of safety features that are mostly included in the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite. The adaptive cruise control system comes with stop and go, there’s blind-spot warning with rear-cross traffic alert, and evasive steering assist.
Interior wise, there is a smart, refined look with nice soft-touch surfaces. Luxurious leather drapes the seats and fit and finish is excellent with plenty of storage. The available panoramic sunroof spans two rows of seats and its huge size allows for a bright and airy interior. The Expedition offers the ultimate in interior room and flexibility. The second-row seats can be configured as optional captain’s chairs as on our tester, which are heated, and can slide fore and aft, recline. The third-row seats are standard, which makes the roomy Ford Expedition a true eight-seater. There is separate climate control zone for the rear. Note that the third row is probably the most spacious in this class and also reclines.
On the road, as expected, the Expedition offers a smooth ride thanks to independent rear suspension. I was surprised to find the Expedition quite easy to park thanks to a relatively tight turning circle. Of note is the new BlueCruise system which provides hands-free highway driving. Instead of requiring that a driver touch the steering wheel occasionally, it uses a camera to monitor the driver’s face to make sure eyes remain on the road. The new Active Air Dam feature improves aerodynamics, deploying at speeds above 63 kph then automatically retracting at lower speeds for city driving and parking. That powerful engine and smooth transmission deliver effortless relaxed highway cruising.
In summing up, the latest generation Expedition is very impressive. It offers a comfortable ride, a roomy cabin with all the luxury you could want. With seating for eight, and a huge cargo and towing capacity, the 2022 Ford Expedition ticks all the boxes. Now according to the influential Kelley Blue Book, a California-based vehicle valuation and automotive research company recognized by both consumers and the automotive industry, the 2022 Ford Expedition is the best SUV you can buy. It has claimed this title for five years in a row due to its versatility, features and value for money. Highly recommended.
2022 Ford Expedition Platinum: Priced from:$95,725
More info at www.ford.ca
