|
Expedition: The Benchmark among
full-size 4WDs.
Ford Expedition remains the established
benchmark in the full-size 4WDs. On road
and off the road, it maintains its smooth,
stable ride. The Expedition benefits from
a four-wheel-independent suspension, which
gives it its characteristic smoothness and
responsive handling. It is driven by a
5.4-liter V8 featuring three valves per
cylinder and variable valve timing, which
produces 300 horsepower and 365 pound-feet
of torque.
On the highway, the Expedition inspires
confidence. It's stable at high speeds. We
were conversing in a relaxed manner at
90-100 mph in an Eddie Bauer while
whistling around a high-speed oval at
Ford's Michigan proving grounds. When the
road is windy, the Expedition offers sharp
steering response. Small inputs to the
steering wheel are answered immediately by
its car-like rack-and-pinion steering.
The four-wheel disc brakes are smooth and
responsive. The Expedition comes standard
with ABS and Brake Assist. Brake Assist is
designed to recognize a panic-braking
situation and maintain full braking force
even if the driver mistakenly relaxes
pressure on the brake pedal.
The popular Eddie Bauer model best
exemplifies the Expedition with its
luxurious and inviting interior and
feature details that make for a more
comfortable and convenient ride. Safety
features include the Safety Canopy air
curtain system designed to offer head
protection for first- and second-row
passengers in the event of a rollover or
side impact. AdvanceTrac with Roll
Stability Control, Ford's electronic
stability control system, monitors
traction at all wheels, plus the rate of
change of body lean, and automatically
cuts power or selectively applies one or
more wheel brakes to correct a skid or
prevent a rollover.
The Expedition has a towering presence,
thanks to the raised center section of its
sloped-down hood. Big 17-inch wheels
enhance its bold look. Bumpers are
smoothly integrated into the overall
design. Expedition's slab sides,
forward-slanting C-pillar, and relatively
simple front-end treatment all contribute
to its unmistakable Ford identity.
Door handles are the full-grip variety,
making them easier for occupants to grab,
whether left- or right-handed, gloved or
not gloved. Expedition's low bumper beams
are designed to prevent smaller cars from
sliding beneath its frame in an accident.
An attractive cabin makes the Ford
Expedition a pleasant place to be on long
trips. Shapes are round, and controls are
hefty for an easy grip. This is
particularly true of the upper-level
models such as the Eddie Bauer and
Limited. The Eddie Bauer Expedition
features handsome leather trim that's warm
and friendly with metallic satin finish
trim on the rings that surround vents and
door handles.
The available power-operated (PowerFold)
third-row seats fold flat with the press
of a button. The third-row seat is split
60/40. Push one button on the wall of the
cargo area, and one side powers down. Hold
down the other button, and the other side
powers down. The power-down buttons are
convenient. The third row disappears into
the floor, leaving a perfectly flat cargo
area. It is an impressive piece of
engineering to watch as the seat folds
down and flaps gracefully flop into place
to cover the gap between the cargo floor
and hinged seats.
In Oman, the Ford Expedition is brought to
you by Arabian Car Marketing Co. LLC, a
part of the renowned Saud Bahwan Group. It
comes with 6 years unlimited mileage
protection, service and parts network that
stretches across the Sultanate, over 98%
parts availability - and Ford Privilege
Card – which provides 24 hours On-road
assistance from AAA, Oman’s premier
On-road Assistance Service Providers and
exclusive discounts from several premium
establishments across the country & UAE.
|
