2020 Ford Expedition Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

People needing an SUV that is both capable and comfortable will want to check out the 2020 Ford Expedition. This vehicle has been around for a while and has earned a reputation for having what families need for both daily driving and weekend adventures. In 2020, this continues to be true, with drivers getting many standard and available features to choose from. At the same time, there are some negatives to keep in mind when researching this vehicle. Overall, how does it stack up against the competition?

What's New for 2020?

This somewhat iconic vehicle started its fourth generation in 2018. At that point, it saw significant changes. Since it has only been two years, very few tweaks were made. The 2020 Ford Expedition is now giving drivers Ford Co-Pilot360 on all versions of the vehicle. This includes features such as blind spot monitoring, automatic high beams, a lane keeping system, pre-collision assist with automatic braking, and a rearview camera.

Those interested in the King Ranch trim will also be happy to know that it is now available in either the regular or max body style. This trim had disappeared completely but is making a triumphant return in 2020. As for the XLT, there is now a Black Accent package that adds exterior style with black trim, wheels, and paint.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2020 Ford Expedition – The Pros

1. Best-in-Class Towing Capability

Drivers who need three rows of seating and the highest possible towing capacity will want the 2020 Ford Expedition. Models powered by the 3.5L EcoBoost engine and equipped with the Heavy Duty Tow package can tow up to 9,300 pounds. These models have trailer sway control and roll stability control. Also available is the Pro Trailer Backup Assist feature. This makes it easy to back-up even long trailers with confidence.

2. Generous Interior Space

The 2020 Ford Expedition has best-in-class leg room for both the second and third rows of seating. With both rows of seating up, the Expedition gives drivers 20.9 cubic feet of space. Folding down the third-row will reveal 63.6 cubic feet. In situations where maximum space is needed, folding down both rear rows of seating will give drivers a whopping 104.6 cubic feet. Still not enough? There is always the Expedition MAX, which has a longer wheelbase that adds another 16.9 cubic feet.

3. Powerful Yet Efficient Turbocharged V6

One of the best things about the new Expedition is its engine. It is a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine that generates 375-horsepower. Platinum models have the same engine but are tuned to get 400-horsepower out of it. Either way, it is paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission. Thanks to the EcoBoost technology, this engine gives the 2020 Ford Expedition best-in-class fuel economy. Many vehicles of this size rely on V8s to give them adequate power. The advantage of this V6 is not only the fuel efficiency but also the lack of noise it makes when cruising through the neighborhood.

4. High-Quality Interior

Stepping inside the Expedition, drivers will immediately notice the upper-class, high-end materials. Although not classified as a luxury SUV, it feels close when inside the cabin. Upper trims, in particular, feature leather, wood trim, and aluminum accents. Even those in the market for a luxury vehicle should consider the Expedition, which offers many of the same touches and features but at a more affordable price.

5. Lots of Standard and Available Cutting-Edge Tech.

Most consumers will find the Expedition's infotainment system easy to use. It comes with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Plus, there is a FordPass Connect app that helps seamlessly connect a smartphone to the vehicle. While some vehicles offer 4G LTE Wi-Fi on upper trims, this is a standard feature on all models of the 2020 Ford Expedition. It is powered by AT&T and can connect to up to ten devices at one time. Another unique feature is In-Car Delivery with Key by Amazon. Available to Prime members, this feature allows packages to be delivered securely to the Expedition. A special app can keep drivers up-to-date on their package throughout the delivery process.

6. Available Off-Road Package

Those who regularly venture off the beaten path will want to check out the 2020 Ford Expedition FX4 Off-Road package. It has 18" wheels with all-terrain tires. Also standard are a heavy-duty radiator, skid plates, and fuel tank underbody protection. To help keep everyone comfortable on the adventures, there are premium off-road shocks. Drivers also get special front and second row flow liners, chrome-plated running boards, and FX4 badging.

7. Eye-Catching Stealth Edition

Consumers who are trying to make a statement with their vehicle will love the Stealth Edition of the 2020 Ford Expedition. The grille has five bars and features gloss black paint. It sits on 22" black-painted wheels. Also black on these models are the power-deployable running boards and tailgate. Inside, this version of the Expedition has red stitching.

8. Advanced Rear Seat Entertainment System

Minivans and SUVs have been putting DVD players in their backseats for a long time. What makes the 2020 Ford Expedition unique is the amount of media it can play. Not only can the dual screens play DVDs, but users can also stream video from their phone, plug in their gaming console, or even watch live TV if they have a Slingbox. The screens are mounted into the rear headrests of the front seats. This entertainment system is available on all trim levels of the Expedition.

9. Standard Blind Spot Monitoring

More and more vehicles are including driver assistance aids on their vehicles. One feature that has remained reserved for upper trims, if available at all, is blind spot monitoring. This is not the case with the 2020 Ford Expedition, which includes a blind spot monitor featuring cross traffic alert. Between the two, changing lanes in traffic and backing out of a spot in a crowded parking lot is easier than ever. Models that are equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow package get trailer coverage with their blind spot monitor automatically.

10. Fully-Loaded King Ranch Model

The King Ranch stands out from the pack with its Del Rio leather seating, arm rests, and steering wheel. It gives drivers heated and ventilated front seats. These captain's chairs in the front also have 10-way power adjustment. In the second row, the heats are seated and feature power-folding. While the third row of seating is not heated, it still has the power-folding feature. This exterior of this trim stands out with its 22" aluminum wheels with dark tarnish accents. These wheels also sport a special King Ranch center cap.

 

Reasons Not to Buy a 2020 Ford Expedition – The Cons

1. Can Be Hard to Maneuver

This is not a subcompact SUV, and it shows in certain situations. That said, the steering is responsive and the vehicle is decently agile. Most people accept that buying a vehicle of this size means maneuvering in tight spaces can sometimes be tricky. Those who are particularly bothered by this are going to want to look into compact or even subcompact options.

2. Brake Pedal Feels a Bit Squishy

Make no mistake, the brakes for the Expedition get the job done. That said, some people may be a little taken aback by how soft they feel until they get used to driving it. Again, this is not a safety issue, but perhaps a confidence one in the beginning.

3. Louder on the Highway than Other Options

Road noise is a common problem, especially at highway speeds. Some people may find the Expedition louder than they are used to. Often, this is a minor issue and most people get used to it rather quickly.

How It Stacks Up to the Competition:

There are a few large SUVs to consider in 2020. The Chevrolet Tahoe is a popular one. Although it is less expensive, it has far less room in the third row. It also has less cargo space. The Chevrolet Suburban is larger, however, both of these options have inferior ride quality. This is due to their truck-like build and suspensions. Another option is the GMC Yukon. This is a good vehicle, but it also does not have as much passenger and cargo space as the 2020 Expedition. The ride quality also is not as nice in the Yukon, making the Expedition a better choice all-around. Also available to drivers is the popular Honda Pilot. While this is a very family-friendly vehicle, it once again falls short in cargo and passenger space. Additionally, it is not as powerful as the Expedition.

Conclusion

In a world where three-row SUVs reign supreme, the Expedition is a king. With best-in-class towing and passenger space, it is great for keeping up with the busy lives of today's families. Loaded with the latest in tech and safety features, it has what everyone needs to stay entertained and to arrive at their destination safely. Despite having a few minor drawbacks, the 2020 Ford Expedition is definitely a strong contender and worth checking out for almost any consumer.