Is the Ford Expedition a V-6 or V8?
The Ford Expedition currently uses a 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine, and there is no V8 option in modern models.
Over its history, Expeditions have used both V8s and EcoBoost V6s. This article explains the current powertrain, the historical context, and what buyers should know when considering a used or new Expedition.
Current engine: EcoBoost V6 powertrain
Performance and towing considerations
The Expedition’s current powertrain is a 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. It is tuned to deliver strong low-end torque for confident towing and highway merging, while aiming to balance power with efficiency for a vehicle in this size class.
- 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Approximately 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque
- Maximum towing capacity up to about 9,300 pounds with the right equipment
In everyday driving, the EcoBoost V6 provides ample acceleration for a full-size SUV and solid towing capability, all while avoiding the heavier fuel demands of a traditional V8.
Historical engine options
Context for buyers
Earlier Ford Expeditions offered V8 engines before Ford shifted to EcoBoost powertrains. The V8 era included several options, most notably the 4.6-liter and 5.4-liter V8s, which were common in generations prior to the EcoBoost transition.
- 4.6-liter V8
- 5.4-liter V8
These V8 options were phased out as Ford embraced turbocharged V6 engines in the Expedition lineup, aligning with broader industry trends toward downsized, efficient powertrains without sacrificing capability.
Summary
Today, the Ford Expedition is powered exclusively by the 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6; there is no V8 option on current models. Historically, Expeditions did offer V8 engines, but the EcoBoost V6 has been the standard for several years. When shopping, verify the exact engine by checking the window sticker or the vehicle’s VIN/engine code to confirm the powertrain for a specific model.
Does Ford offer a V8 in the Expedition?
No, the current Ford Expedition does not have a V8 engine; it has been replaced by twin-turbocharged V6 engines since the 2015 model year. Older models, however, did come equipped with V8 engines, such as the 5.4L V8 that was standard from the late 1990s until 2014, and the 4.6L V8 option available in the first generation.
Current models
- Engine: Twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6
- Horsepower: 400 hp for the base model and 440 hp for the upgraded version
- Torque: 480 lb-ft for the base model and 510 lb-ft for the upgraded version
Older models
- 1997-2014: Ford used a 5.4L V8 as the standard or optional engine for most of these years, eventually replacing it with the twin-turbo V6 for the 2015 model year.
- 1997-2004: Some models offered a 4.6L V8 as a standard engine option.
Is the Ford Expedition V8 or V6?
"Ford keeps it simple with the powertrain options: Every Expedition comes with a twin-turbo, 3.5-liter V6 and a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Is the Ford Explorer V6 or V8?
The majority of Ford Explorers are powered by an Ecoboost 3.5L V6 Engine, known for not only offering the power of a V8 with the economy of a V6 but also being stubbornly dependable, requiring little beyond routine maintenance to ensure they keep running for mile after mile.
Can you get a V8 in a new Expedition?
The Expedition's lone powertrain, a twin-turbo V-6, is brawny, ranging in output from 400 to 440 horsepower depending on trim.
