2025 Ford Expedition First Drive Review: A More Robust Competitor for the Tahoe

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      Ford has dominated the full-size pickup truck market for more years than I’ve been alive, yet when it comes to large SUV sales, GM consistently takes the lead; the Chevy Tahoe and GMC Yukon are immensely popular among families that prefer spacious vehicles. This means that the three-row Expedition is not the automatic choice, unlike the F-Series pickup. I can’t imagine Ford is particularly pleased about this, which likely explains the extensive effort put into enhancing the new Expedition’s quality.

      The updated model introduces an adventurous Tremor off-road trim suited for rugged terrain, a stunning EcoBoost V6 engine that becomes even more powerful with the high-output version sourced from the Raptor, and a luxurious cabin that can match its upscale Lincoln Navigator counterpart in the King Ranch and Platinum trims. With this significant 2025 upgrade, the Expedition dives deeper into the premium market, which appears to align with consumer demand based on a quick scan of the internet or the roads around you.

      The Expedition has elevated its status by integrating features you might not have realized you needed. As a six-foot-five father with three young kids, I discovered several enhancements that made me think, “Yes, that would certainly simplify my life.”

      Caleb Jacobs

      Whether these improvements can dethrone the recently updated Tahoe is debatable, but I’ll state upfront that this Expedition is a step up from its predecessor. I ought to know since I own one.

      The Fundamentals

      Ford has established itself as a truck and SUV brand in recent times, with the Expedition serving as its flagship vehicle for those who do not require a pickup bed. In essence, it’s a substantial deal. It represents a major profit source for Ford and often acts as a status symbol for individuals who would never consider squeezing into an Explorer. This new-generation model understands that better than any of its predecessors.

      The exterior of the 2025 Expedition is distinctly different from the previous model, featuring a unique daytime running light design that outlines the split headlights at the front. New grille designs come with a textured lower element on higher trims, while the fog light cutouts in the front bumper feature nearly concealed LED lights. Changes are noticeable at the rear as well; the tailgate now has a split design that can drop down as a seat or shelf, while the upper hatch opens conventionally. The tail lights also exhibit a style that departs from traditional Ford design, but that might not necessarily be a drawback.

      The 24-inch wheels on the Platinum model appear excessively large. Caleb Jacobs

      When you open the door, the vehicle welcomes you with a start-up sequence displayed on its large screens. My first reaction upon seeing it was, “Ooh, fancy.” The seats are spacious and comfortable across all trims, and the interior feels very open, especially when looking back to the third row. The addition of a panoramic glass roof certainly enhances that feeling.

      For those unfamiliar with this type of screen layout, it might feel a bit odd initially. Since the gauge display isn’t limited to the area directly behind the steering wheel, it takes a moment to get used to what information is shown on that elongated, relatively narrow display and its placement. It’s clean and straightforward, as Ford has not overwhelmed it with too much content, and essential features such as the BlueCruise hands-free driving system have prominent placements on the screen. Some aspects are customizable, like the option to view the gauge layout or trip meter next to the speedometer, and I adapted quickly.

      Caleb Jacobs

      The interior is arguably the most crucial aspect for families considering the Expedition alongside other three-row SUVs. A 24-inch digital display is positioned at the top of the dashboard, containing the gauge cluster and a navigation window featuring Google Maps. Ford’s design team made significant efforts to ensure this works well, even flattening the steering wheel's top for better visibility. Below this digital cluster, to the right, is a 13.2-inch, horizontally oriented infotainment touchscreen, which replaces the previous model’s outdated vertical display.

      You can opt for a second-row bench seat or individual captain’s chairs, while the third row features a smart 40/20/40 bench design. This allows the middle seat to fold down, facilitating the transport of longer items such as fishing rods or a stylish Dolby Atmos sound bar. The new split tailgate is solid, with the lower section capable of supporting up to 500 pounds. Inside, it boasts various convenient features, including a power-sliding center console that moves the cupholders closer to the rear, revealing a compartment suitable for a gallon jug up front.

      Caleb Jacobs

      Driving Experience

      Initially, I feared it might take me time to adjust to the flattened steering wheel. Its oblong shape is unique, and there are only two buttons that serve a singular function, while others are blank and can have multiple uses, such as controlling volume or adjusting wheel angles and