2025 Ford Expedition Max Review
If you want a full size people mover from Ford, the Expedition has been the go to choice for nearly 30 years. When the first generation arrived in 1996, it was basically an F 150 chassis with an SUV body. Even today that formula remains the same, but Ford has added far more refinement and uniqueness over the years.
For 2025, the Expedition enters its fifth generation with new sheet metal, updated technology, a simplified trim lineup, and the latest Ford digital experience. In this review, we are looking at the 2025 Ford Expedition Max in the base Active trim to understand whether the upgrades are enough to keep it competitive in the American full size SUV segment.
Engine and Performance
Under the hood, Ford continues with the proven twin turbo V6. There is no V8 option.
Engine Highlights
3.5 liter, twin turbocharged, DOHC V6
Part of the EcoBoost family
Standard output: 400 hp and 480 lb ft of torque
10 speed automatic transmission
Rear wheel drive standard
Full time four wheel drive optional for an extra 3000 dollars
High output version available on higher trims (around 440 hp)
This engine setup competes closely with the 5.3 L V8 in GM’s Suburban and Yukon. Boost pressure is 20 psi for both standard and high output variants.
Fuel Economy and Range
15 mpg city
22 mpg highway
Regular petrol recommended
Max version gets a 27.8 gallon tank, giving around 400 miles of range
Ford does not quote an official 0 to 60 mph time, but previous testing recorded about 5.9 seconds. Top speed is around 125 mph.
Towing capacity is strong with a 9000 lb rating, and this Max version weighs just under 6000 lbs.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
Ford has redesigned the exterior completely for 2025. While the styling may divide opinions, the Expedition certainly looks bold.
Key Exterior Changes
New front fascia with bold grille
LED reflector headlights on all trims
C shaped LED DRLs
Gloss black accents on the Active trim
No fog lights on this trim
Stone Blue Metallic paint shown in the video (extra 500 dollars)
The Max version is the longer model and shares dimensions with rivals like Chevrolet Suburban, GMC Yukon XL, and Jeep Wagoneer L.
Dimensions
Wheelbase: 131.5 inches
Overall length: 221 inches
Ground clearance: Just under 9 inches
Tremor trim increases it to around 10.5 inches
Wheels and Tires
The 202A Upgrade Package adds:
20 inch alloy wheels (look closer to 18 inch visually)
275 60 R20 Pirelli Scorpion all terrain tires
Power folding mirrors
360 degree camera
Panoramic sunroof
Gloss black mirror caps
Rear Design and Practicality
From the rear, the long proportions are noticeable. The tail section has design cues similar to GMC SUVs. The Expedition Max gets a split tailgate design borrowed from the Lincoln Navigator.
Rear Features
Full LED tail lights
Integrated rear spoiler
Hidden rear wiper under the spoiler
Split tailgate for extra convenience
Max badging
Full size spare wheel
Tow hitch included
Cargo Capacity
The Max version is designed for families who need maximum space.
| Seat Configuration | Cargo Capacity |
|---|---|
| Third row up | 37.1 cu ft |
| Third row folded | 75 cu ft |
| All rows folded | 123 cu ft |
For comparison:
A Suburban offers roughly 15 cu ft more.
Expedition Max cargo volume is similar to a standard wheelbase Tahoe or Yukon despite its long exterior.
There is also underfloor storage, side compartments, power folding third row, USB C ports, and a 12V outlet.
Interior Quality and Technology
The 2025 Expedition gets a big step up inside with Ford’s latest digital experience.
Key Fob and Access
Standard Ford intelligent access key
Traditional buttons for lock, unlock, remote start, liftgate
Phone as a Key only available on Platinum trim
Illuminated keypad on the door
Power folding mirrors with 202A package
Seats and Upholstery
Light gray ActiveX synthetic leather (part of 202A package)
Copper orange contrast stitching
Heated front seats
10 way power driver seat
No ventilated seats on Active trim
Memory seat functions hidden inside the touchscreen menu
Cloth seats standard without the 202A package
Interior Design and Materials
Soft touch injection molded plastics
ActiveX leather inserts on the doors
Hard plastics on lower areas
F 150 style door handles
Standard audio system with eight speakers
Bang and Olufsen audio only available on higher trims
Screens and Infotainment
Every Expedition now gets:
24 inch panoramic style digital cluster
13.2 inch center touchscreen
Ford Digital Experience with customizable widgets
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Blue Cruise hardware included (subscription required)
Heated steering wheel
Power tilt and telescopic adjustment
Touch sensitive steering controls
The layout feels modern, and the user interface shares similarities with the Lincoln Navigator’s setup, though Ford limits some of the luxury features.
Verdict
The 2025 Ford Expedition Max brings a refreshed design, modern digital interior, and an already proven twin turbo V6. The Max version offers serious passenger and cargo capability, along with improved convenience features through the 202A package.
While the styling may not appeal to everyone and some luxury features remain exclusive to higher trims, Ford has refined the Expedition to keep it competitive against big American rivals.
Buyers looking for a large family SUV with strong towing power, spacious cargo capacity, and the latest Ford infotainment should find the 2025 Expedition Max a solid option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What engine powers the 2025 Ford Expedition Max?
The 2025 Expedition Max uses a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 (no V8 is available). In standard output form it produces 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Full-time four-wheel drive is optional (extra cost), while rear-wheel drive remains standard.
What is the fuel economy and driving range of the Expedition Max?
Ford rates it at 15 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway using regular gas. Because the Max gets a larger 27.8 gallon fuel tank, a realistic driving range close to 400 miles is possible on a full tank under mixed driving conditions.
How much cargo and passenger space does the Expedition Max offer?
With all three rows up, cargo space behind the third row is about 37.1 cubic feet. Folding down the third row expands cargo to 75 cubic feet. Fully folding all seats yields up to 123 cubic feet of storage. The vehicle can seat up to 7–8 occupants depending on configuration and offers generous room even in the third row.
What kind of interior and infotainment does the new Expedition get?
The 2025 model gets Ford’s latest Digital Experience system, featuring a 24-inch panoramic digital instrument cluster and a 13.2-inch center touchscreen. The interior is upgraded over the previous generation with synthetic leather (ActiveX) on base trims, modern materials, a multi-function steering wheel, and available features such as power sliding center console, panoramic sunroof, and optional higher-grade audio systems.
Is the 2025 Expedition Max good for towing?
Yes. With its strong twin-turbo V6 and robust build, the Expedition Max can tow up to 9,000 lb, making it one of the most capable SUVs in its class for towing heavy trailers and loads.
What are the trim and wheel options for the new Expedition?
The 2025 Expedition is offered in four trims: Active (base), Platinum, Tremor, and King Ranch. The Max version is available in Active, Platinum, and King Ranch trims. With the 202A Upgrade Package, the base Active trim gets 20-inch alloy wheels, power-folding mirrors with integrated turn signals, a 360-degree camera, panoramic sunroof, and more.
