"Overwhelming size, surprisingly smooth ride." The Ford Expedition, a leading American sports utility vehicle (SUV), has returned with a fully redesigned fifth generation. It showcases the appeal of a full-size American SUV with its hefty body and comfortable driving experience.
On July 22, the all-new Ford Expedition was encountered at the Signiel parking lot in Songpa, Seoul. True to its name, it embodies the spirit of exploration. Its imposing size commanded attention, making the transition from the underground parking lot to the main road feel like an adventure.
The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV measuring over 5 meters in length. Similar in size to the Cadillac Escalade, which was launched in South Korea last year, it presents a formidable presence.
Upon taking the driver's seat, the first thing that stood out was the elevated front visibility. The steering wheel and pedal positions were adjustable to fit various body types. A 24-inch panoramic digital display was prominently positioned in front, allowing for seamless integration with smartphones to use familiar navigation apps like KakaoMap. The central display provided real-time information about the vehicle's surroundings and key situations.
During an 80-kilometer round trip to Namyangju, Gyeonggi Province, the interior remained quieter than expected despite the rain. Noise from the road and raindrops was not overly intrusive.
On the highway, the power and strength typical of American cars were evident. The model is equipped with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost high-output V6 engine that delivers 446 horsepower and 70.5 kg·m of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Pressing the accelerator made it easy to forget the vehicle's size as it accelerated powerfully.
On downhill stretches, the hill descent control function maintained speed without frequent braking. The auto hold brake feature, uncommon in American vehicles, proved useful in congested urban driving.
At the turnaround point, the Expedition's signature split gate caught the eye. When the trunk was opened, the upper door acted as a makeshift canopy to shield from the rain, while the lower door could be used as a bench or table. This design clearly considered outdoor activities like camping and car camping.
Spacious interior space is another advantage. The seven-passenger model is well-suited for family travel and recreational activities. As one approaches the vehicle, the electric side steps automatically extend to assist with entry and exit.
Having sold over 3 million units worldwide in its 30-year history, the Ford Expedition remains a best-seller. The fifth-generation model enhances its existing popularity and practicality while further improving recreational utility and driving convenience. Although the test drive was brief, it was sufficient to appreciate the unique comfort and appeal of an American full-size SUV.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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