What year did the Ford Expedition change body style?
The most notable body-style change occurred in 2007, when Ford introduced the Expedition's third generation with an all-new exterior design.
The Expedition has undergone several generation shifts since its debut in 1997. Here is a concise timeline of the major body-style changes and what they signified for the SUV’s design and capabilities.
Generation-by-Generation Body Style Changes
Below is a concise timeline of the major body-style shifts, outlining years and the nature of the design changes for each generation.
- 1997–2002: First generation — The original boxy, truck-based SUV with a traditional body-on-frame construction and squared-off styling.
- 2003–2006: Second generation — A revised but still rugged silhouette with updated front fascia and interior; more modern cues while preserving the overall boxy shape.
- 2007–2017: Third generation — All-new body style for the Expedition, featuring a larger frame, more rounded lines, and significant exterior updates that gave the SUV a contemporary look.
- 2018–present: Fourth generation — A major redesign introducing new platform architecture, more modern styling, improved aerodynamics, and updated technology inside and out.
Concluding note: The most widely cited single-year change for a clean break in styling was 2007, but the Expedition has seen multiple generation shifts, notably in 2003 and again in 2018, each bringing distinct body styles and platform updates.
What this means for buyers and enthusiasts
Understanding these changes helps explain why model-year differences matter for parts compatibility, resale value, and the driving experience. When shopping, it’s useful to look at the generation badge and the specific styling cues to confirm which body style you’re considering.
Additional context
If you’re curious about how these changes map to trim levels, engine options, and features, we can dive into each generation’s highlights and notable variants.
Summary: Ford Expedition body-style changes have occurred at multiple points in its history, with 2007 serving as a major all-new styling shift for the third generation, following an updated second generation in 2003, and a comprehensive redesign for the fourth generation starting in 2018. The model continues to evolve with ongoing updates in design and technology.
