What engine is in a Ford Expedition?
The Ford Expedition uses a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. It’s paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered with rear- or four-wheel drive depending on the configuration.
What this means in practice is that the Expedition relies on a modern, high‑efficiency V6 rather than a V8 to deliver strong towing capability, smooth highway performance, and confident acceleration with the extra weight of passengers and cargo. The engine is part of Ford’s EcoBoost family and is shared with other large Ford vehicles, including the F-150 and Lincoln Navigator.
Engine overview
The Expedition’s powertrain lineup centers on the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, a twin-turbocharged gasoline engine designed to balance power and efficiency for a full-size SUV.
The following rundown covers the main engine outputs available across the current lineup and notable variants.
- 3.5L EcoBoost V6 (twin-turbo) — standard across most trims. Outputs vary by model year and tuning, typically producing around 375–400 horsepower and about 470–510 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available with either rear- or four-wheel drive (depending on trim).
- Expedition ST (high-performance variant) — a sportier version of the same 3.5L EcoBoost V6 with more aggressive tuning, typically rated around 440 horsepower and about 510 lb-ft of torque. This trim usually includes AWD and sport-tuned handling characteristics.
Across the lineup, Ford has kept the 3.5L EcoBoost as the sole gasoline engine for the Expedition, focusing on torque-rich performance suitable for towing and transporting large families.
Historical context and what to expect
Before the current generation adopted the EcoBoost powerplant, Expeditions commonly used V8 configurations, notably the 5.4-liter V8 in earlier years. Beginning with the modern generation, Ford shifted to the 3.5L EcoBoost as the standard engine, with the high-performance ST variant introduced to offer more spirited performance while maintaining the Expedition’s traditional towing and payload capabilities.
What this means for buyers
Prospective buyers should expect strong low-end and mid-range torque from the EcoBoost V6, making it easier to tow trailers and haul cargo without the engine feeling strained. The 10-speed automatic helps optimize gearing for both acceleration and highway efficiency. If sportier styling and performance appeal, the Expedition ST offers a higher-output version of the same engine with a more dynamic driving character.
Summary
In short, the Ford Expedition runs on a twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, with power output varying by trim—from roughly the 375–400 hp range in standard setups to about 440 hp in the sportier ST variant—paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive. This configuration emphasizes torque and towing strength while providing modern efficiency for a full-size SUV.
What engines are in the Ford Expedition?
Invigorate your daily drive with the 2024 Ford Expedition. Each Expedition model is equipped with a 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 engine that comes in three variations, depending on the trim level you select.
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 Expedition built on a F150 frame?
Yes, the Ford Expedition is built on a frame that is derived from the F-150 platform. While the front of the frame is shared, the Expedition has a unique rear frame and independent rear suspension to improve ride quality and interior space.
- Shared platform: The Expedition uses a body-on-frame construction shared with the F-150, a design that has been common for the Expedition since its introduction.
- Key differences: The rear of the Expedition's frame is unique to accommodate its independent rear suspension, which distinguishes it from the F-150's live rear axle.
- Benefits of the design: This modification allows for a lower rear entry and more cargo/passenger space in the back of the SUV.
- Engine and transmission: The Expedition also shares its engine and transmission options with the F-150, such as the twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 and the 10-speed automatic transmission.
- Model year consistency: This F-150-based platform has been used across multiple generations of the Expedition, with the latest models continuing the tradition.
What Ford Expedition to stay away from?
The Ford Expedition years to stay away from include: 2004. 2006. 2003.
