Should I wait for the 2022 model or is it too late Tested: 2021 Ford Expedition Limited 4x4 Max

By William Jinkins

Pros: Great overall package in a slightly outdated form.

Cons: Lacks the digital dash of the current F-150 and the fold flat front passenger seats.

What’s new: Pretty much a carryover until the 2022 model arrives.

I’m having a difficult time contemplating why I received this particular vehicle when the 2022 model will be much improved. The same can be said for the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL. So, here is my swan song review of a still great full-size SUV.

So, if you’re in the market for a discounted model, the 2021 version might be the answer. However, bear in mind, things are not the way they use to be before pre-pandemic and the lack of computer chips. Inventory is still very much an issue, and you may be paying top dollar for a vehicle that’s now considered behind the design curve.

Just a summary: like the shorter wheelbase Expedition, the trim levels include the XL ST, XLT, Limited, King Ranch and Platinum. There’s also special packages including Stealth, Texan, and FX4 off-road Editions. The Limited and above gives you retractable running boards, leather appointments and Sync 3 infotainment system. Though it might seem harder to get use to, the Sync 4 of the 2022 model it’s much improved overall. Ford will also offer Blue Cruise on the higher end models, which is Ford’s version of GM’s Smart Cruise semi-autonomous system.

A brief history of the Max addition: This stretched vehicle (2018- ) eventual replace the mighty Ford Exposition (2000-2006), which was built on Ford’s Super Duty chassis. It, like the huge Hummers, was consider a slow seller and took up quite a carbon footprint. Yet as a pre-own, especially in diesel form, they can command mega bucks. Even “Blue Blues” NYPD Police Commissioner Frank Reagan, this is his preferred ride.

So, thinking of it as a Suburban want to be – meaning it’s a far more desirable and attractive vehicle. It also makes a hard case which vehicles, Ford or GM, are the better deal.

The Expedition comes with only one powertrain, a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 mated to a 10-speend automatic. Now one would think that’s just not enough power to propel this behemoth off the line as was well as towing capacity of 6,500 lb., which not necessarily best in class. However, the Expedition performs as well or better that GM’s V8s, the EPA rated fuel economy is a decent 16/18/21 city/combined/hwy. Besides, it has the performance of a quiet V8, and an exhaust note as well.

The Suburban even has a diesel option, which allows increased towing and fuel economy. It would be nice if the Expedition had, as an option, Ford’s Coyote V8 I’d like to at least see the F-150’s 3.5 EcoBoost Hybrid as an option. It’s just a matter of time before we see an EV version, similar to the upcoming F-150 Lighting.

Inside, the Expedition Limited allows fine niceties as the full glass panoramic sunroof and B&O sound system. Of course, it gives you all the expected safety features including adoptive cruise control.

Piloting the Expedition Max takes a little effort, but my petit wife still managed to maneuver it around town with little effort. That’s in part because of the power adjustable steering wheel as well as brake a brake and accelerator pedal.

My tester came in an attracted Rapid Red Metallic that’s an $395 upgrade. It also had the Group 302A package that had the above-mentioned Panoramic roof, as well as 360-degree camera, LED headlamps and enhance parking assist. The heavy-duty trailer towing package added another $795 to the deal, and with a $1,695 designation charge brought the grand total to $73,330.

God willing and the creek don’t rise I should be able to secure some seat time behind a 2022 Model, either in short wheelbase or Max form. So, stand tune!

What's new for 2022

I believe I already said it.