Ford Expedition: Innovation, Luxury and a Party Animal Personality
The 2025 Ford Expedition has undergone a significant transformation, evolving from a utilitarian interior based on the F-150 pickup to a luxury vehicle that competes with high-end SUVs boasting six-figure price tags. The new Expedition features lavish elements such as advanced digital displays, premium materials, and numerous comfort and infotainment features. What sets it apart from other luxury SUVs is its ‘party animal personality,’ designed to be a versatile home base for family activities, camping, and tailgating in style.
One of the most noticeable changes is the replacement of the dated vertical center stack screen with a 24-inch horizontal display that stretches across the dashboard to the edge of the windshield. This design improves visibility from any seat and allows drivers to keep their eyes on the road. The judges praised the premium interior materials, including Salt Crystal Gray leather-trimmed seating with channeled quilting, textured metallic trim on the instrument panel, and stylish faux wood trim on doors. A 13.2-inch digital instrument cluster is easily visible thanks to a new steering wheel design that also enhances maneuverability.
Innovative Features
A standout feature is the large center console with a power sliding mechanism. It moves back 8 inches, making it more accessible to center-row passengers and providing additional personal space and storage up front. Another impressive feature is the communicative lighting system, where accent lighting on interior door panels turns red when the door opens, alerting oncoming vehicles and bicyclists.
The Platinum grade model tested boasts numerous USB-C ports, AC outlets, and various apps, including Amazon Prime, Max, and Peacock video streaming via a connectivity package subscription. The vehicle’s digital experience is powered by Google’s Android operating system, complete with expected Google apps like Maps and the Play store. Additional tech highlights include 5G connectivity, the ability to connect up to 10 devices via Wi-Fi hotspot, and a fast and responsive onboard voice assistant.
Tailgating and Camping Features
The rear cargo area is specifically designed for tailgating and camping, with panels stored in the cargo floor that can be pulled out and arranged as shelves for food and beverages or as seatbacks for the dual opening liftgate and tailgate combo rear hatch. This feature is particularly appreciated by judge Bob Gritzinger, an avid outdoorsman, who notes that it caters to the needs of those who enjoy spending time around their vehicles during outdoor activities.
Conclusion
While the $90,000 sticker price of the Platinum Ultimate test vehicle initially raised eyebrows, the judges concluded that the 2025 Expedition has risen to a whole new level of luxury and innovation. With its attention to detail and comprehensive feature set, it’s considered a bargain compared to other big luxury SUVs priced over $100,000. As judge Gary Vasilash remarked, ‘The interior designers thought about every element, and it shows.’
