What engine does the Ford Expedition use?
The Ford Expedition currently uses a twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 as its standard and primary powerplant, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The question explores how the Expedition’s engine options have evolved, what powers today’s models, and how those choices influence performance, towing, and efficiency. This article outlines the current engine, historical options, and what buyers should consider when evaluating the full-size SUV.
Current engine option
In the contemporary Expedition lineup (model years around 2024–2025), Ford relies on a single, modern powertrain for most trims.
- Engine: 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 twin-turbo
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Power and torque: typically in the range of roughly 380–440 horsepower and 470–510 lb-ft of torque, depending on year and trim
- Fuel type and options: no diesel or hybrid variant is offered in the current generation
- Drivetrain: rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available on most trims
In short, today’s Expedition is powered by Ford’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, a setup designed to balance strong towing capability with competitive on-road performance in a large SUV, without alternative engine choices in the current generation.
Historical engine options
Across its history, the Expedition has used a variety of larger V8 powerplants, prior to the current EcoBoost-era. Notable past configurations included naturally aspirated V8 options such as the 4.6-liter and the 5.4-liter engines.
- 4.6-liter V8 (early generations)
- 5.4-liter V8 (widely used before EcoBoost era)
- 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 twin-turbo (current and most recent generations)
These shifts reflect Ford’s move from conventional V8 powerplants toward turbocharged V6 power for better efficiency without sacrificing the heavy-tow capabilities that define the Expedition.
What this means for buyers
For prospective buyers, the choice of engine shapes performance, towing capability, and maintenance considerations. The EcoBoost V6 delivers strong overall capability for a large SUV, with the advantage of turbocharged power and improved fuel efficiency relative to older V8s. Buyers should weigh drivetrain choice (RWD vs. AWD), trim features, and service needs related to turbocharged engines.
Fuel economy and towing considerations
While the EcoBoost V6 is efficient for its size, the Expedition remains a substantial vehicle. Real-world fuel economy varies with drivetrain and load, and all-wheel-drive models typically achieve slightly lower efficiency than rear-wheel-drive configurations.
Maintenance and reliability considerations
Turbocharged engines require routine maintenance per Ford’s guidelines, including timely oil changes and cooling-system care. Regular service and using the recommended fluids help maximize reliability and longevity for the EcoBoost powertrain.
Summary
The Ford Expedition is powered by a 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 in its current generation, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This represents a shift from earlier Expeditions that relied on naturally aspirated V8s such as the 4.6L and 5.4L. Today’s engine choice emphasizes strong towing and on-road performance with a focus on efficiency for a large SUV. No diesel or hybrid option is offered in the contemporary Expedition, and future updates will depend on Ford’s ongoing powertrain strategy.
