Stretched out to its full 18.5 feet (221.3 inches), the 2012 Ford Expedition EL XL 4WD adds some 15 inches of overall length to its standard-size compatriots. This full-size SUV, once a prizewinner in Ford’s stable, still boasts 3 rows of seating for up to 8 and almost 131 cubic feet of cargo area. As its moniker implies, this big ute also comes with Ford’s driver-selectable Control Trac 4-wheel drive (4WD) with electronic hi-lo gear selection and auto-locking hubs. This system allows drivers to switch from rear-wheel drive (RWD) to 4WD and back, with the additional capability of shifting to a lower gear when the going gets really tough.
A handsome and venerable profile, meantime, boasts 17-inch alloy wheels, step running boards, a roof rack, a Class IV trailer hitch and wiring, and heated power-adjustable outside mirrors with blind-spot indents. Inside, look for cloth upholstery, reclining second-row seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and simulated alloy trim. Full power accessories are bolstered by front and rear air conditioning and a 160-watt audio system complete with an MP3-capable single-CD player, 6 speakers, satellite radio and rear controls. Finally, cruise control and tilt-wheel steering give drivers an extra measure of comfort and convenience.
Of course the EL XL 4WD remains eligible for some heady options choices, like remote engine start, rear-seat DVD entertainment, a heavy-duty trailer package and a 3.73 non-limited-slip rear axle. And then there’s Ford’s Bluetooth-boosted SYNC AppLinks infotainment package for some added entertainment and communications capabilities.
Look for the standard (and only) 5.3-liter Flex Fuel V8 engine to mate with a 6-speed automatic transmission for 310 hp and 365 lb-ft of torque, while variable valve timing (VVT) allows this 4WD monster to get an estimated 13 mpg city/18 highway. Towing, finally, is maxed out at 9,200 pounds with the proper equipment.
Safety-wise, besides sheer size, the 2012 Expedition XL EL 4WD boasts such notable features as 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front side-mounted airbags and 3-row head airbags. Front fog/driving lights, a post-collision safety system and a remote antitheft alarm, along with the touted MyKey speed- and audio-programmable system, help keep owners (and their kids) worrying less about safety and more about gas prices.
