20 years ago, the American manufacturer Ford launched the Expedition in its first version. Over the years, Ford has developed this massive SUV without any radical changes until 2018 when Ford released the All-New Generation 2018 of Ford Expedition, superbly revamped from inside out.
The All-New Ford Expedition is now more than ever suitable for adventure enthusiasts and at the same time is a family car taking into consideration its capabilities and massive size.
To confirm on the above, our team embarked on a desert journey in the United Arab Emirates challenging the hot weather and the harsh gravel and sandy roads.
Our journey from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah started early in the morning, however, this time the trip was not on the usual paved roads, the Ford Expedition was set for an adventure like no other on the sandy dunes and gravel pathways.
Before we dive into the details of our Arabian desert adventure, let’s pause and have a glimpse on the exterior design fully revamped for the All-New Ford Expedition 2018. The front of the Full-Size SUV is characterized by a large chrome grille centring two newly designed C-shaped LED Headlights and coped with two fog lights reflecting the same spirit of the headlights, in addition to the aerodynamically designed air vents on the side and centre of the front bumper giving the Expedition that sportive character. Moving to the rear side of the SUV, we notice that the taillights are in perfect harmony with the headlights design and are connected via a chrome strip giving the 2018 Expedition that evolutionary design reflecting the technological revolution of the car.
In terms of smart upgrades on the Ford Expedition, the car has been equipped with more than 40 advanced technological features and is now considered to be the most capable Full-Size SUV in its class. Technology has intervened drastically during our journey to provide a distinctive style of driving. On any long desert journey, it is crucial to say connected at all times to avoid any unpleasant situation as sometimes your life and the life of the passengers depends on it. The Expedition comes equipped with a wireless charger (the first system implemented on Ford vehicles) needed to keep your mobile phone insight and connected at all times through the SYNC® 3 ™ Apple CarPlay ™ and Android Auto. The most important feature of this system is that it gives the driver a comprehensive offline road-map for the Middle East much needed when it comes to desert Off-Roading driving Journeys as it was the case with our Desert Expedition. In addition, and because the Expedition is considered as well as a family car, the American manufacturer has equipped the rear seats with a dual headrest entertainment system that enables rear seat passengers to enjoy long journeys. This feature greatly contributes to the satisfaction of children on long journeys and gives the driver and his companion some quiet and enjoyable time during those long drives.
As for us, we were 6 adults seated comfortably inside the Ford Expedition that can accommodate up to eight people with enough space to set up our equipment and baggage. The guys in the back were enjoying that extra headroom and legroom in the 2nd and 3rd row since the Expedition is considered to be the Best in Class for 2nd and 3rd row Space. Not just that, we were in for an entertaining journey, as the Ford Expedition comes equipped with the notorious B&O PLAY audio system setup with 12 speakers providing an audio experience that can only be appreciated by music lovers.
What is the Desert Journey If we cannot enjoy the wonderful sceneries of the Arabian Desert from all sides, even from the roof? The Ford Expedition is equipped with the Vista Roof a panoramic roof over two rows of seats and is also the best in its class. Our trip was unique and convenient at all levels.
In terms of storage, you can use, in addition to the large storage capacity in the trunk, additional cargo space by folding the seats in the third row or even in the second row with a touch of a button. And guess what? when parked on an inclining hill the Advanced cargo manager keeps hold of your items so it doesn’t fall off when opening the trunk, I think they should consider that system in airplanes.
Mechanically, the Ford Expedition is equipped with a powerful upgraded 3.5-liter V6 Twin Turbo EcoBoost engine coped with a 10-Speed Automatic Gearbox developed exclusively for the Expedition capable of generating 400 horsepower with the best in class Torque of 650Nm and is at the same time the most fuel efficient in its class.
Continuing with our desert adventure, we were faced with various types of terrains, from sandy dunes to gravel and a mix of both, the New Terrain Management system was capable of overcoming any type of pathways that came in our way, the Ford Expedition is equipped with an Intelligent 4WD drive setup with more than 12 driving modes ready to tackle that adventurous excursion in the simplest forms possible. Even if you are not into off-roading, your family or friends journey into the unpaved universe will be pleasant and enjoyable.
On the paved roads and for more comfort and safety, the full-size SUV has obtained several Driving assistance features such as: Class-exclusive enhanced active park assist, 360-degree camera technology, Lane Assist, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, collision avoidance detection system, BLIS and so much more.
The All-New 2018 Ford Expedition has set new standards for full-size SUVs with the highest levels of power, capability, adaptability and smart technology. This versatile SUV makes modern family adventures more comfortable on short and long journeys.
