Grab hold of Ford’s 2012 Expedition XL 4WD if you need a full-size 5-passenger SUV that’ll go just about anywhere. With standard Control Trac 4WD flaunting lo- and hi-speed gearing, auto-locking hubs and 3 driver-selectable 4-wheel-drive (4WD) modes, this hefty ute is ready for whatever the road or the trail has to offer.
Of course, over 108 cubic feet of total cargo space come with this heavy hauler, while 17-inch alloy wheels, a roof rack, side steps, a tow hitch and wiring, and heated power-adjustable mirrors with blind spot indents jazz up the profile. Inside, look for cloth upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and simulated alloy cabin trim, not to mention reclining rear seats, front and rear air conditioning, and full power accessories. Cruise control is also standard, as is tilt-wheel steering, while entertainment is offered via a 160-watt MP3-capable single CD player with 6 speakers, as well as satellite radio and rear audio controls.
Of course, the 2012 Expedition XL 4WD remains eligible for such add-ons as available remote engine start, rear-seat DVD entertainment, SYNC AppLink infotainment with Bluetooth, a heavy-duty trailer package and a 3.73 non-limited-slip rear axle.
Again for 2012, the ubiquitous 5.3-liter Flex Fuel V8 engine with variable valve timing (VVT) gives this humongous ute its go. Combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission, this 4WD hauler humps 310 hp and 365 lb-ft of torque, has a towing capacity of 9,200 pounds when properly equipped and gets gas mileage estimated at 13 mpg city/18 highway.
Besides sheer bulk, standard safety features include 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front side-mounted airbags and front and rear head airbags. Front fog/driving lights, a post-collision safety system and a remote antitheft alarm are also standard, as is Ford’s touted MyKey programmable speed and audio limiter, which should help keep younger drivers on the right side of the law.
