The Ford Expedition, while perhaps not turning heads with its exterior styling, truly shines where it counts – on the inside. For families and those prioritizing interior space and functionality, the Expedition presents a compelling package. Let’s delve into what makes the interior of this SUV a standout feature, particularly focusing on the first and second rows, technology, and car seat configurations.
First Row Impressions of the Ford Expedition
Stepping into the Ford Expedition, the first thing you’ll notice is the sheer space. Even if the exterior styling is understated, the interior immediately impresses. The door cubbies are generously sized, easily accommodating everyday essentials like wipes, snacks, and more, though perhaps a very large water bottle might be a tight squeeze. Headroom is ample, and visibility is excellent, a crucial factor for navigating daily drives, even with multiple car seats in the back. One minor drawback mentioned is the absence of a camera in the rearview mirror, which could further enhance already impressive visibility.
Moving to the center console, it’s a highlight of the front cabin. Its expansive size transforms it into a practical workspace, doubling as a desk or table. This feature is incredibly useful for on-the-go meals or even mobile work sessions. Cup holders are plentiful and well-sized, with four within easy reach of the driver – two between the front seats and two more within the center console itself, all capable of holding large water bottles. Another thoughtful touch is the double glove box, offering segmented storage. It’s suggested to relocate the owner’s manual to the trunk to maximize this valuable glove box space for more frequently accessed items like cleaning supplies, keeping in line with the idea that a clean car contributes to a better driving experience.
Infotainment and Technology
The Ford Expedition incorporates a fully digital dash, a modern touch that is generally well-received. However, while visually appealing, there’s a desire for greater customization options, similar to systems found in competitors like the Kia Telluride or Hyundai Palisade. The available large infotainment screen, while expansive, is noted to be somewhat glitchy, and the integration of climate controls into the screen is a point of contention. Many drivers prefer physical buttons and dials for climate adjustments for ease of use while driving. While the infotainment system includes desirable features like Apple CarPlay, the overall recommendation leans towards sticking with the standard screen option, potentially due to the reported glitches and preference for physical climate controls.
Second Row Bench: A Family-Focused Design
The second-row bench seat is highlighted as a primary reason for choosing the Ford Expedition, particularly for families. Its configuration is praised for its adaptability, demonstrated with a setup for three children under four, accommodating two rear-facing car seats on the outboard and middle seats, and a baby seat on the other outboard side. Impressively, even with the driver’s seat adjusted for a taller person (around six feet), there’s still ample room for a rear-facing baby seat behind it, and substantial legroom when the baby seat base is removed. This underscores the advantage of a bench seat over captain’s chairs for families needing maximum flexibility and passenger capacity.
Two standout features of the second-row bench are emphasized: firstly, the individual adjustability of all three seats, allowing them to slide forward or backward independently. Secondly, the car seat-friendly tilt feature is lauded for enabling the seat to tilt forward for third-row access even with car seats installed using the LATCH system. Amenities in the second row include climate controls, ceiling vents, and heated seats. The door cup holders are again praised for their design. However, a notable omission is the lack of sunshades, a feature present in the Ford Explorer, leaving one to question its absence in the Expedition.
Third Row Accessibility and Space
The independent second-row seats and the car seat tilt feature significantly enhance access to the third row, even with a bench configuration. Once in the third row, the Expedition provides surprisingly generous space. Even with the second row pushed fully back, there’s still adequate knee room. Headroom is generally sufficient, although it might feel slightly tighter in the middle seat, but still without the head touching the ceiling for most adults. The inclusion of head restraints in both the second and third-row middle seats is specifically called out as a positive safety feature, especially when compared to some competitors like the Chevy Tahoe which reportedly lacks this feature in the third row.
Ford Expedition Car Seat Setup Summary
In conclusion, the Ford Expedition excels as a family-oriented SUV, particularly due to its incredibly spacious and thoughtfully designed interior. The flexible second-row bench, ample legroom in all rows, and user-friendly features like the car seat tilt make it a strong contender for families with multiple children or those needing significant passenger and cargo space. While the infotainment system and exterior styling receive some critique, the interior functionality and family-focused design are clearly the Expedition’s strongest selling points.
