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2015 Ford Expedition Gets 3.5L EcoBoost V6, Platinum Model

2015 Ford Expedition 6 photos
Photo: Ford
2015 Ford Expedition2015 Ford Expedition2015 Ford Expedition2015 Ford Expedition2015 Ford Expedition
Combining capability and style, the 2015 Ford Expedition is heralded as the most powerful and fuel-efficient Expedition ever thanks to a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 mated to a SelectShift six-speed tranny. Added technology and comfort features aside, an all-new range-topping Platinum model completes the lineup, boasting high levels of luxury and comfort.
The full-size SUV wearing the Blue Oval logo up front comes with class-leading maximum cargo space in the extended-length version for the 2015 model year. Going on sale later this year with a mildly refreshed look, the standard version of the Expedition comes with three rows of seats and up to 108.3 cubic feet of cargo space. Step up to the LWB version and the wheelbase increases by 12 inches for a total of 131 inches, while the cargo space increases to 130.8 cubic feet.

“Customers still have a need for a traditional full-size utility vehicle and the new 2015 Expedition delivers what those customers are looking for,”
declared Keith Wilson, Ford Expedition marketing manager. “These are Ford’s more affluent customers who won’t compromise – they want space, performance, comfort and capability all in one impressive package." The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 mill under the bonnet employs a twin-turbo setup and direct injection to provide "more power, efficiency and performance than the 5.4-liter V8 in the current model."

The same engine is used by the Ford F-150 pickup truck and Lincoln Navigator, but the variant fitted to the updated Ford Expedition comes with 365 horsepower and 420 pound-foot (569 Nm) of torque on tap. While fuel economy figures haven't been released yet, the same auto box and turbo V6 drivetrain returns 14 mpg city and 20 mpg highway on the two-wheel drive 2015 Lincoln Navigator. At the rear you'll find an independent suspension setup for better ride and handling characteristics, but this design also allows a more convenient fold-flat third-row bench seat and low load-floor height. And now we get to the good part.

Ford's all-new electric power-assisted steering system is on the menu, giving the driver improved maneuverability at low speeds and better feedback at high speeds, all while helping save fuel by operating more efficiently than traditional pump-driven systems. This system is especially welcomed if you want to tow things with the new Explorer, which offers best-in-class towing of up to 9,200 pounds. A continuously controlled damping suspension system is available, offering three selectable drive modes - comfort, normal and sport, helping control wheel and body motions for a more comfortable and safe ride.

SYNC with an 8-inch MyFord Touch infotainment system, together with a radar-based Blind Sport Information System with cross-traffic alert are other features that might interest potential buyers, together with an instrument cluster shown on two color 4.2-inch screens. Those that need more can opt for a Sony audio system, rearview parking camera, ambient interior LED lighting and the Platinum trim series.

This top-of-the-range model offers customers a choice between Brunello leather seats in red wine with tuxedo-stripe accents and French-seamed stitching, or Ebony leather-appointed seats with Agate Gray accents for a more classy look. All models, including the entry-level Limited, mid-range King Ranch and Platinum can be kitted with 22-inch polished aluminum wheels, a revised rear hatch and chrome exhaust.
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About the author: Mircea Panait
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After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well.
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