It’s big, it’s massive and if you liked it in previous years, then you’ll like it now. The 2012 Ford Expedition is a carryover from its 2011 design, and since its introduction in 1997, is still known for being one of the most dependable cars on the road. The Expedition comes in 2 models, the standard length and the EL, which has a 12-inch longer wheelbase. There are 4 trims available, the XL, XLT, King Ranch and the Limited. The Expedition is the largest SUV Ford makes and second only to the Lincoln Navigator in luxury.

Some of the changes Ford did make are to the Expedition's powertrain. The standard model Expedition SUV has a new smaller 4.8-liter V8 flexible fuel engine, and the higher trims have the more powerful 5.4-liter V8 flex fuel engine. As you would expect, both have rather dismal mileage, 14 mpg city/20 highway, but this is more than balanced out by the vehicle's robust 9,200-pound towing capacity and optional 4-wheel drive. The 2012 Ford Expedition runs on regular gas, but can also use E85 ethanol-blended fuel.

Acceleration is what you would expect for such a large SUV, but the 6-speed transmission is able to nimbly handle the correct gear, even when tested in towing situations. Road noise is minimal and only slightly louder during acceleration. Which means you and your kids can all wave to the big truck you are quickly passing, on a hill, with your boat. Nice.

One test drive will pretty much sell you on the effortless ride and ample interior amenities. Let’s face it, whether you need to haul a trailer or a hockey team, you will travel in comfort with the Expedition. The cabin is large and seats 8 passengers - even the third row boasts seating for 3 adults, but they'd better be really good friends. The bucket seats are heated and cooled in the front row and heated in the second row, and a power-folding third-row seat is standard in most models. Getting in and out the cab is not for the timid or petite, but optional power running boards will help.

For the driver there are roomy and comfortable seats, a power tilt steering wheel, and hello - power-adjustable pedals. The dash controls include touchscreen and push-button, which have been reported to be confusing by some drivers. There are still a lot of plastic surfaces on the dash that detract from the more luxurious details offered. Standard for all models are antilock brakes, a navigation system and remote start. You can get rear-view cameras for the XLT and Limited trims.

Like to combine work and play? The versatility of the second- and third-row seating should be very attractive to anyone who needs to use this vehicle for cargo, whether it’s plywood or preschoolers. Both rows fold flat to the floor for an enormous storage and cargo hauling area. There is a large glovebox, a generous center console and numerous large door pockets for storing small items.

Some of the safety changes, which are now standard for all 2012 Expedition trims, include the addition of side curtain airbags in the second- and third-row seats and roll stability control, which improves tire grip and helps prevent rollovers. For peace of mind, an On-Star-like post-crash alert system will call for help even if you can’t.

All in all, the safety improvements, comfort and powerful towing capacity make the 2012 Ford Expedition a good choice and value for families who have lots of toys and people to haul on long trips.