2021 Ford Expedition

2021 Ford Expedition Highlights

For 2021, the Ford Expedition full-size SUV gains a new entry-level XL trim with two-row seating for a maximum of five passengers. The 2021 Ford Expedition XLT trim now offers Ford's Co-Pilot360 Assist package, which bundles advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control and lane centering, but the XLT no longer has the hands-free tailgate option. The 2021 Ford Expedition Limited now has adaptive cruise control as standard equipment. Buyers can also choose the longer Expedition Max. Upgrading to a 2021 Ford Expedition Max extends the wheelbase for more cargo room.

Key Details

• Standard and extended-length (Expedition Max) full-size SUV body styles
• Three-row seating for up to eight passengers (seven with optional second-row captain's chairs)
• Base XL trim features two-row seating for up to five passengers
• Generous cargo capacity, especially in the Expedition Max
• Twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine with up to 400 horsepower
• Standard rear-wheel drive (RWD) or available four-wheel drive (4WD)
• Maximum towing capacity of 9,300 pounds (when properly equipped)

Benefits

• Spacious and versatile interior with adult-friendly third-row
• Smooth and potent EcoBoost V6 engine
• Impressive towing and payload capabilities
• High-tech features like SYNC 3 infotainment and Ford Co-Pilot360 driver aids
• Comfortable ride quality for a large SUV
• Available off-road-oriented FX4 package

Learn More: Ford Expedition trim levels: Feature comparison tables

2021 Ford Expedition Overview

Performance

The 2021 Ford Expedition offers one engine option with two levels of tune:

3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine (XL, XLT, Limited, King Ranch):

• 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque

3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine (Platinum)

• 400 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque

The only transmission offered is a ten-speed automatic. RWD is standard, with 4WD optional on all trims. The EcoBoost V6 is a brute that gives muscle-car acceleration. It's also a strong performer when towing, with a maximum capacity of 9,300 pounds when properly equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package. Interestingly, the 2021 Ford Expedition Max towing capacity is less than the standard Expedition at 9,000 pounds with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.

Safety

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

Standard safety features on the 2021 Expedition include:

• Ford Co-Pilot360, which includes:
  • Automatic high beams
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Lane keep assist
  • Automatic emergency braking
• Three-row side curtain airbags
• Tire pressure monitoring system
• Post-crash alert system
• Rearview camera with backup grid lines

Available safety options include:

• Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist (standard on Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum) with adaptive cruise control, intersection assist, and lane centering
• 360-degree camera system
• Front parking sensors
• Reverse brake assist
• Active park assist for parallel and perpendicular spaces

Driving

The 2021 Expedition looks muscular and is muscular. With up to 400 hp, Ford’s EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 can move the Expedition with alarming haste. Don’t expect athletic handling, however. Still, the Expedition is smooth, controlled, and reasonably precise, thanks in no small part to its independent rear suspension.

When venturing off-road, the available FX4 package adds underbody skid plates, off-road-tuned shocks, a 3.73 limited-slip rear differential, and all-terrain tires. A 360-degree camera system helps navigate tricky terrain. While not a hard-core trail rig, the Expedition is more than capable of handling rugged dirt roads and sand dunes.

Around town, the Expedition will not let you forget that it’s the length of a decent-sized boat. That said, the standard rearview camera and optional 360-degree camera make parking easier. Expedition Max models are even more cumbersome in tight spaces, but that’s the compromise of having more cargo room.

Interior

The 2021 Ford Expedition interior is cavernous and well-appointed, with seating for up to eight passengers. Base XL models have two rows of seating for five occupants, while XLT and higher trims add a third row. Passenger space is generous in all three rows, with enough headroom and legroom to accommodate adults. Optional second-row captain's chairs reduce seating capacity to seven but provide a convenient pass-through to the third row.

The materials quality is good for the class. The 2021 Ford Expedition Platinum and King Ranch models offer premium leather upholstery and genuine wood trim. You’ll want a 2021 Ford Expedition Max Limited or higher if you need upscale appointments paired with endless cargo space. With all seats folded, the standard Expedition has 104.6 cubic feet of storage, while the Max increases that to 121.4 cubic feet.

Technology

The 2021 Expedition comes standard with Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system, which includes a responsive eight-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. SYNC 3 has an intuitive interface and high-resolution graphics, making controlling audio and navigation functions a breeze. Standard FordPass Connect allows owners to use a smartphone app to locate their vehicle, start the engine remotely, and check fuel levels.

Other available tech features include:

• Wireless charging pad
• 12-speaker B&O premium audio system
• Dual-headrest rear-seat entertainment system
• Connectivity ports: four USB ports (two in 2nd row), 110V outlet, 12V outlet

Fuel Economy

The 2021 Ford Expedition offers competitive fuel economy ratings for its class. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

Expedition:

• RWD (mpg): 17 city / 23 highway / 19 combined
• 4WD (mpg): 17 city / 22 highway / 19 combined

Expedition Max:

• RWD (mpg): 17 city / 23 highway / 19 combined
• 4WD (mpg): 16 city / 21 highway / 18 combined

2021 Ford Expedition Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book give the 2021 Ford Expedition an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5. Owners praise the Expedition for its comfort, styling, and performance.

Reasons to Buy It

• EcoBoost V6 with impressive power and torque
• Plenty of passenger and cargo space, especially in Max form
• Ford’s Co-Pilot 360 safety features
• Available driver assistance features
• Excellent towing capacity, especially with the optional tow package
• Smooth, confident ride thanks to independent rear suspension
• SYNC 3 infotainment is easy to use and responsive

Problems

• Thirsty for a full-size SUV with fuel economy in the high teens
• High cargo floor can make loading heavy items a chore
• Slab-sided styling isn’t as distinctive as some competitors
• Upper trims are expensive
• Third-row seat doesn't fold completely flat
• Smartphone-based connectivity functions can be glitchy

Explore: Which Years Of Used Ford Expeditions Are Most Reliable?

CoPilot's Take

The 2021 Ford Expedition is a pure old-school American “muscley” family car. While it won’t out-corner sports cars, its ride excels at providing quiet and comfort. Handling is still predictable and confidence-inspiring, thanks mainly to the independent rear suspension. Then there’s the brawny twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 with up to 400 hp. Drivers will never be left wanting for power.

Its spacious cabin will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a moderately sized house. With room for up to eight passengers and an adult-friendly third row, the extended-length Expedition Max is an excellent choice for families who need to haul lots of gear or frequently take road trips.

When properly equipped, the Expedition can tow up to 9,300 pounds, making it a capable choice for boat or trailer owners. The available FX4 package adds decent off-road chops, though it can't quite match the trail-readiness of a Toyota Land Cruiser or Jeep Wagoneer.

Technology is another strength of the Expedition, with an intuitive SYNC 3 infotainment system and the comprehensive Co-Pilot360 safety suite. The available rear-seat entertainment system is perfect for keeping kids occupied on long drives, and the cavernous cargo hold can swallow everything from sports gear to home improvement supplies.

However, this Ford has a few downsides. The Expedition's size can be cumbersome in urban settings, and its fuel economy is nothing to write home about. Buyers who truly want a luxurious experience might prefer the more opulent Lincoln Navigator.

2021 Ford Expedition FAQ

Is 2021 a good year for the Ford Expedition?

2021 is a strong year for the Ford Expedition. The addition of the XL base model makes the lineup more accessible. Ford’s newly available Co-Pilot360 Assist package on the XLT trim brings advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control and lane centering to a lower price point.

What is the reliability score of the 2021 Ford Expedition?

Consumer Reports rates the 2021 Expedition below-average in reliability, giving it a 2 out of 5. The principal troublespot is the ten-speed automatic transmission.

Are there any problems with the 2021 Ford Expedition?

A few notable recalls have affected the 2021 Ford Expedition. One involves inoperative windshield wipers, and another addresses a defect in the engine compartment wiring harness, which may result in an unexpected engine stall or fire.

Check Out: Ford Expedition Transmission Problems