The 2017 Ford Expedition ranks 2 out of 6 Large SUVs. The 2017 Ford Expedition gives you three rows of roomy seating, and an available extended wheelbase model offers class-leading interior and cargo space. However, some competing large SUVs offer extra features and better fuel economy.
Pros Excellent cargo capacity in the EL model Spacious seating in all three rows Smooth ride Powerful engine
Cons Some low-grade materials in cabin
Old school is in session: The 2017 Ford Expedition teaches a few lessons to today's crossover SUVs with twin-turbo power, luxury-truck touches, and big towing and hauling numbers. The Expedition isn't just surviving, it's thriving. In 2015 it subbed in a whomping turbo V-6 for its V-8, gained an adaptive suspension and a new infotainment system, and slathered on a fresh layer of luxury touches. A decade or more past its last, serious redesign, the Expedition hasn't ever been better.
Pros Stronger, higher-mpg engine Should ride smoother and quieter than ever Good third-row space in EL model Plush King Ranch interior Drives smaller than it looks
Cons It's still an 8-year-old design Not easy to park, even with rearview camera Gas mileage has made gains, but not big ones
There are plenty of car-based crossovers to choose from these days. But there are times when you might want the capabilities of a beefy, traditional SUV. The 2017 Ford Expedition is one of our top recommendations in this segment thanks to massive passenger, cargo and towing capabilities. The 2017 Ford Expedition carries over with no significant changes.
Pros Roomy third-row seat Strong and efficient turbocharged V6 Easy-folding rear seats increase interior flexibility Tows more than similarly sized crossovers
Cons Undeniably bulky size makes it difficult to park (especially the extended-wheelbase EL version) Interior looks a bit dated.
The 2017 Lexus GX ranks 22 out of 22 Luxury Midsize SUVs. The 2017 Lexus GX ranks near the bottom of the luxury midsize SUV class. If you want a luxury SUV with off-road capabilities (and standard four-wheel drive), then the GX is one of the few midsize choices that will meet your criteria. It also comes standard with seating for seven. In most other respects, however, you’re better off looking at most other vehicles in the class.
Pros Excellent off-road abilities Intuitive technology features
Cons Low fuel economy estimates Timid acceleration Unremarkable cabin materials
For an old-school SUV, the Lexus GX acquits itself quite well.Underneath its sharply-styled body and high-end interior, the Lexus GX 460 hides a utilitarian frame and a suspension shared with the foreign-market Toyota Land Cruiser Prado. Why's that important? The Prado, which is unrelated to the Land Cruiser sold at Toyota dealers in the United States, is a serious work truck designed for farmers in Australia and peacekeepers in Somalia. That helps explain some of its compromises—but despite its high step-in and quirky tailgate, the Lexus GX 460 does a lot of things very well.
Pros Truck-based solidity Smooth and strong V-8 engine Plush ride quality Comfortable interior Off-road ability
Cons Side-opening hatch opens away from the curb Too-light steering Poor gas mileage Spongy brake pedal feel Compromised cargo area
Lexus has added the Sport Design package to the 2017 GX 460, which includes some different wheels, a different front grille and additional exterior chrome trim pieces. Second-row captain's chairs are a new feature for the GX 460.
Pros Capable off-road performance requires little effort from the driver Plenty of luxury features and cabin amenities.
Cons Poor acceleration and fuel economy from the V8 engine Uncomfortable standard second-row bench seats Inconvenient side-swinging rear cargo door Relatively ponderous handling around turns.