2011 Ford Expedition EL Review

Among the models specifically identified as Ford Expedition EL models, the EL XL level is the lowest; it starts at $39,355. The EL XL comes with four wheel drive, stability control, side and curtain air bags, and an mp3 player.

Beyond the EL XL trim level lies the EL XLT level, which starts at $41,150. Finally, at the top level is the El King Ranch, which is the most luxurious version of the Ford Expedition you can buy without further customization.

The Ford Expedition is a full-size sport-utility vehicle. Ford's 5.4-liter V8 powers all models.
There are few changes for 2011 Expedition models. Expedition was last redesigned for the 2007 model year.

The Ford Expedition comes in two lengths, the standard model with a 119-inch wheelbase, and the Expedition EL with its 131-inch wheelbase. Every Ford Expedition model is available with either rear-wheel drive (2WD) or electronically engaged ControlTrac four-wheel drive (4WD) that can be driven on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. All Expedition models include AdvanceTrac electronic stability control system with Roll Stability Control (RSC), including standard Trailer Sway Control that detects trailer sway motion and takes corrective measures to bring both the vehicle and the trailer under control.

The Expedition EL XL ($39,115) and Expedition EL XL 4WD ($42,015) are equipped the same.
The Expedition XLT ($38,200) and XLT 4WD ($41,100), Expedition EL XLT ($40,910) and EL XLT 4WD ($43,810) add reverse-sensing system, SYNC, Premium sound system, power-adjustable pedals, universal garage door opener, and a large selection of other trim and convenience features. XLT options include moonroof ($995), power running boards ($995), air suspension ($485), rear-seat entertainment ($1,995), leather ($2,265), and voice-activated navigation ($2,105). Expedition Limited ($44,870) and Limited 4WD ($47,770), Limited EL ($47,520) and Limited EL 4WD ($50,420) add heated and cooled front seats, power rear quarter windows, dual-zone climate control, memory for driver's seat and exterior mirrors, rear-view camera, rain-sensing wipers, power liftgate, PowerFold rear seat, leather, 20-inch alloy wheels and a wide range of additional convenience and trim features. Limited Decor Group 301A ($4,590) features navigation system, rear-seat entertainment, moonroof, and power running boards.

Expedition King Ranch ($46,140) and King Ranch 4WD ($49,040), King Ranch EL ($48,790) and King Ranch EL 4WD ($51,690) feature Chaparral leather upholstery, King Ranch badging, and gold exterior accents. The Expedition rides on a wheelbase of 119.0 inches, while the EL models stretch that to 131.0 inches. The Expedition and the Expedition EL are big vehicles, measuring more than 17 feet from nose to tail. The Expedition comes with running boards as standard equipment. The Ford Expedition features a rich blend of finishes, textures and color. The second seating row reflects Ford's thoughtful approach to passenger comfort: The standard 40/20/40 bench seat incorporates a center section that slides, bringing a child seat within easier reach of front-seat passengers. The Expedition's second- and third-row bench-type seats fold flat into the cargo floor, affording a long cargo area that can be easily loaded. The Expedition is also available with an optional power-folding third-row seat and electronically powered liftgate to make it even easier to load cargo. The Expedition is about more than convenience.

Driving Impression
The Expedition makes an excellent tow vehicle. With the optional towing package, the standard 4WD Expedition is rated at 8,900 pounds, the 2WD at 9,200 pounds, the 2WD EL at 8,900 pounds, and the 4WD EL at 8,700 pounds. Among full-size sport-utilities, the Ford Expedition stands apart with its superior driving comfort and utility package.

A longer version, called the Expedition EL, is about 15 inches longer and has a standard third row. Regular- and extended-length Expeditions sport the same exterior styling. Exterior features include:
Standard capless fueling system
Standard fog lamps
Standard exterior keypad system
Standard heated mirrors
Standard 17-inch wheels
Optional power running boards
Optional power liftgate
Interior
The Expedition can seat up to eight occupants across three rows of seats. Interior features include:
Standard auto-dimming rearview mirror
Standard power locks and windows
Standard leather-wrapped steering wheel
Optional Sync multimedia system
Optional heated and cooled front seats
Optional power-folding third row
Optional navigation system
A standard MyKey system allows parents to impose vehicle restrictions on teen drivers. Standard front-seat side-impact airbags
Standard MyKey
Standard side curtain airbags
Standard electronic stability system with anti-rollover technology
Standard four-wheel-disc antilock brakes
Standard SOS Post-Crash Alert System
Standard trailer sway control
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