Though the jumbo SUV market isn’t what it once was, Ford has seen fit to make a few notable upgrades to its outsize Expedition for 2011. With new wheels and a deft shuffling of options packages, Ford hopes to hold buyer interest against a rising tide of imports, including Toyota’s Sequoia and the upcoming second-generation Nissan Armada. For its part the 2011 Expedition and its long-wheelbase EL stablemate offer loads of space for passengers and cargo while maintaining a (relatively) carlike demeanor courtesy of their four-wheel independent suspension.

Riding on Ford’s T1 platform (derived from the F-150 pickup), the Expedition is, of course, a full-size, body-on-frame SUV. For 2011 the base Expedition rides on a 119-inch wheelbase, while the lengthened EL model offers 131 inches between the axles. Both varieties seat eight passengers, but the EL variant does so in significantly more comfort, particularly in the third row. Short-wheelbase (if 119 inches can be called short) Expeditions can tow up to 9,000 pounds with an optional trailer package, while EL trims can pull 8,700 pounds.

For 2011 the most notable change to the Expedition line is the deletion of the famous Eddie Bauer trim package. The "Eddie" now joins such illustrious names as Givenchy, Mark Cross and Bill Blass in the automotive co-branding graveyard; it’s been replaced by a new XLT Premium Package with similar levels of equipment and a two-tone color scheme. Other minor changes for 2011 include the aforementioned new wheels (some with an attractive machined finish) and an upgraded rear-seat DVD system that integrates LCD screens into the back of the headrests. A new color (Golden Bronze Metallic) also debuts, along with new floor mats in the top-dog King Ranch trim.

Drivetrain choices for 2011 are again limited to Ford’s stalwart 5.4-liter V8. Those hoping to see the new 6.2-liter gas motor (or heaven forbid, a PowerStroke diesel option) will be forced to wait a bit longer. The tried-and-true 5.4-liter mill churns out a decent 310 hp and 365 lb-ft of torque. Though burdened by a hefty, 6,000-pound curb weight, V8 Expeditions get from 0-60 mph in a respectable 8.5 seconds. Reliability of the 5.4-liter motor has been excellent, while fuel economy, at 16 mpg combined, is somewhat less than stellar. Driveline choices include either RWD or part-time 4WD, with a six-speed automatic transmission as the sole gearbox option.

Though it reduces cargo space, the 2011 Expedition’s four-wheel independent suspension (consisting of a front control arm setup paired with a multilink rear) provides a far more compliant ride than the live rear axles that reside underneath most of its full-size competition. Despite its three-ton bulk, the big Ford moves more delicately and leans less through turns than a Suburban or Armada. Its steering is predictably numb, but mostly accurate and features variable assist that dials down the effort at parking-lot speeds. Braking is by discs all around with antilock control, providing mostly drama-free stopping power despite a rather mushy pedal feel.

Inside the 2011 Expedition features a straightforward, family-friendly design. The dashboard layout places most controls within easy reach, but the sheer size of the vehicle means some switches require a bit of stretching. Lower trim levels clad the dash in a rather chintzy grade of plastic, and the overall atmosphere is rather dour. Only in the top-dog King Ranch edition does the interior display a hint of style; supple Chapparal stitched leather and a liberal dose of chrome provide a warmer ambiance. The adjustable pedals and upright driving position will accommodate nearly any driver, but the seats themselves lack any lateral support and just aren’t very comfortable, especially on long trips. The second row also has plenty of space, but if you often carry a full load of passengers, the EL model’s third row provides much more hip and shoulder room. Behind the third row there is surprisingly little room for cargo in short-wheelbase Expeditions; again the EL trim is the way to go if you carry a lot of luggage.

With the disappearance of the Eddie Bauer line, the 2011 Expedition comes in three flavors: XLT, Limited and King Ranch. The XLT features standard power windows, locks and mirrors, plus cruise control and a single-CD stereo with MP3 connectivity. An optional premium package (taking the place of ol’ Eddie) adds leather and two-tone exterior paint. Limited trims get a big bump up in equipment (and price) with standard heated and ventilated power seats with memory, a 6-CD stereo that pumps out 340 watts and a back-up camera, an essential item on such a big beast. Ultimate-spec King Ranch models get special leather seats embroidered with the logo of the eponymous Texas spread along with special Pueblo Gold two-tone lower paint. While base XLT Expeditions check in at a rather reasonable $35k or so (final 2011 pricing has yet to be announced), a loaded King Ranch EL will ring the bell at nearly sixty grand before discounts, quite a chunk of change for a family hauler.

Safety features for all 2011 Expeditions include front, side and curtain airbags. Chassis control is maintained with standard antilock brakes, electronic stability programming and traction control. In federal crash testing last year’s Expedition earned five stars in all frontal and side impact categories. Rollover ratings were less stellar, with RWD trims garnering three stars and 4WDs earning four, indicating a static stability factor of 1.18.

In short the 2011 Expedition is a well-rounded, competent effort in the giant SUV sweepstakes. Newer entries unquestionably do certain things better; Toyota’s Sequoia features a rip-snorting 381 hp, and Chevrolet offers its Suburban in a three-quarter-ton trim that can tow a mighty 12,000 pounds. But the Expedition does everything well and handles better than most, with the inevitable discounts that aren’t often encountered at Toyota dealerships making the big Ford an excellent buy.