2017 Ford Expedition

2017 Ford Expedition Highlights

2017 marks the final model year of the Ford Expedition’s third generation. There are no major changes to the vehicle itself, though the tech received an update in the form of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration in the SYNC 3 infotainment system. Also, the 2017 Ford Expedition XLT now includes HD Radio as standard equipment.

Buyers who want premium touches such as plush perforated leather seats and stainless steel running boards will gravitate to the 2017 Ford Expedition Platinum trim, which also gains polished 22-inch wheels and continuously controlled dampers. Buyers who want luxury and comfort paired with a Western theme will enjoy the appropriately named 2017 Ford Expedition King Ranch. All trims can be had with either standard-length or extended-length bodies.

Key Details

• Full-size SUV body style
• Three-row seating for up to eight passengers
• Twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine
• SelectShift automatic transmission
• Available rear-wheel drive (RWD) or four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations
• Eight-passenger seating capacity
• Independent rear suspension
• Heavy-duty trailer tow package available
• Standard SYNC 3 system
• Extended-length EL model option
• Trailer sway control

Benefits

• Class-leading towing capacity
• Spacious third-row seats
• Available extended-length version
• Powerful EcoBoost performance
• Multiple luxury trim options
• Comfortable ride quality
• Extensive cargo space
• Advanced towing features
• Independent rear suspension

Learn More: Which Years Of Used Ford Expeditions Are Most Reliable?

2017 Ford Expedition Overview

Performance

The 2017 Ford Expedition features a single powertrain configuration:

3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine:

• 365 horsepower
• 420 lb-ft of torque
• Twin-turbo technology
• Direct fuel injection
• Six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission
• Available RWD or 4WD drivetrains
• Heavy-duty radiator

For properly equipped models, the 2017 Ford Expedition towing capacity is between 6,600 pounds and 9,200 pounds. Towing features include:

• Integrated trailer brake controller
• Heavy-duty tow package
• Trailer sway control
• Class IV hitch receiver
• Integrated trailer wiring harness
• Heavy-duty rear suspension
• Available HD radiator

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Expedition a top five-star overall safety rating.

Standard safety features include:

• AdvanceTrac with roll stability control
• Safety canopy system
• Multiple airbag system
• SOS post-crash alert system
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• Four-wheel disc brakes
• Rear stabilizer bar
• Front and rear crumple zones
• Side-impact door beams
• Rearview camera

Available safety features include:

• Blind-spot monitoring
• Rear park sensors

Driving

The 2017 Expedition is a body-on-frame SUV with a curb weight well over 5,000 pounds, so it’s not exactly agile. But thanks to its independent rear suspension, it feels smooth and stable. The optional electronically controlled shocks enhance these attributes even further. The use of electric power steering increases fuel mileage, but steering feel is nearly nonexistent.

While the Expedition is certainly not a sports car in the corners, it can keep up with them in a straight line. The EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 is not only more efficient than the old 5.4-liter V8, but it’s way up in horsepower and torque, too. With 365 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, the six-speed automatic rarely has to downshift to provide extra thrust.

Features that impact driving characteristics include:

• Electric power-assisted steering
• Independent front and rear suspension
• Multiple drive modes
• Available 4WD with low range
• Trailer sway control
• Hill start assist
• Optional load-leveling suspension
• Smooth power delivery
• Responsive braking system

The available heavy-duty trailer tow package adds:

• Integrated trailer brake controller
• Heavy-duty radiator
• Pro Trailer Backup Assist
• Enhanced rear axle ratio
• Heavy-duty rear stabilizer bar

Interior

The 2017 Expedition interior offers generous space across all three rows. Base XLT models have cloth seats, but the 2017 Ford Expedition Limited and other higher-level trims feature leather.

Standard features:

• Eight-passenger seating
• Power-adjustable driver's seat
• 60/40 split-folding second row
• 60/40 split-folding third row
• Tilt/telescoping steering wheel
• Multiple power points
• Cruise control
• Climate control

Interior space is generous, with plenty of headroom and legroom for first- and second-row passengers. Thanks to a generous 37.7 inches of legroom, adults can even sit in the third row without feeling cramped. Standard seating allows up to eight passengers, with the optional second-row bucket seats reducing capacity to seven.

Available upgrades:

• Leather-trimmed seating
• Heated and cooled front seats
• Power-folding third row
• Dual-zone automatic climate control
• Power-adjustable pedals
• Power liftgate
• Premium interior trim options
• Second-row captain's chairs

Standard model cargo capacity:

• 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row
• 55.0 cubic feet behind the second row
• 108.3 cubic feet maximum

EL model cargo capacity:

• 42.6 cubic feet behind the third row
• 85.5 cubic feet behind the second row
• 130.8 cubic feet maximum

Technology

The 2017 Expedition’s technology is modern, but the best features are reserved for higher trims.

Standard equipment:

• SYNC 3 infotainment system with 4.2-inch display
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• HD Radio
• USB ports
• MyKey system
• SiriusXM satellite radio

Available features:

• Larger eight-inch display
• Navigation system
• Premium audio system
• Dual-headrest DVD system
• Power-deploying running boards
• Power moonroof
• Push-button start

Fuel Economy

EPA fuel economy ratings vary by drivetrain:

Standard Length:

• RWD (mpg): 15 city / 21 highway / 18 combined
• 4WD (mpg): 15 city / 20 highway / 17 combined

Extended Length (EL):

• RWD (mpg): 15 city / 20 highway / 17 combined
• 4WD (mpg): 15 city / 19 highway / 16 combined

2017 Ford Expedition Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book give the 2017 Ford Expedition an average rating of 4.6 out of 5. Owners praise the Expedition for its performance, reliability, comfort, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Plentiful power and torque
• Up to 9,200 pounds of towing capacity
• Smooth, stable ride thanks to independent rear suspension
• Available extended length for increased cargo volume
• Comfortable, adult-sized third-row seats
• Proven reliability

Problems

• Fuel economy trails competitors
• Some dated interior materials
• Large exterior dimensions
• Higher maintenance costs
• Complex infotainment system
• Premium fuel recommended

Explore: Here Are The Ford Expedition Years To Avoid

CoPilot's Take

The 2017 Ford Expedition hauls. It hauls people and cargo, but thanks to its twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, it also hauls. That power translates to substantial towing capacity, but don’t think the Expedition is merely a utilitarian SUV. Its independent rear suspension delivers better ride quality than some solid-axle competitors, and there’s enough space for eight adults to sit comfortably (seven if the second row features optional captain’s chairs).

Interior space is quite generous, especially in EL models with a cargo capacity of as much as 130.8 cubic feet. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are welcome additions for 2017, and navigation is an option.

The downsides are few, but important to point out. Even with EcoBoost engines, fuel mileage will have trouble cresting 20 mpg. The steering is uncommunicative, and handling is mediocre, but that’s not unexpected for a large, body-on-frame SUV. It’s just that handling, braking, and steering have become more of a focus for the segment in recent years, and the 2017 Expedition’s driving experience is more firmly rooted in the trucks of yesteryear.

Also, material quality and design elements show their age compared to newer rivals like the Nissan Armada or Lincoln Navigator. However, the leather and wood on higher trims feel and look premium.

2017 Ford Expedition FAQ

Was 2017 a good year for the Ford Expedition?

Yes, 2017 was a solid year for the Ford Expedition. The proven EcoBoost powertrain delivers reliable performance, while the addition of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enhanced its technology. The vehicle maintains strong reliability ratings and owner satisfaction scores, particularly for towing capability and passenger comfort.

How many miles will a 2017 Ford Expedition last?

A 2017 Ford Expedition can last 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance. The EcoBoost V6 engine has proven durable in numerous Ford applications, and the overall build quality supports long-term reliability.

What is the recall on the 2017 Ford Expedition?

Two recalls have been issued for the 2017 Ford Expedition: one for the brake master cylinder and brake booster and another for the front blower motor assembly.

Does a 2017 Ford Expedition hold its value?

Yes, the 2017 Ford Expedition maintains relatively strong resale value compared to other full-size SUVs. Factors contributing to its value retention include its towing capability, passenger capacity, and overall reliability. The higher-tier trim levels, specifically the Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum trims, typically hold their value better than base XLT models.

Check Out: The Ford Expedition Max Years To Avoid