The Ford Explorer vs Ford Expedition

What Are The Differences in Size and Style?

It’s no surprise that the drivers who visit, from Oak Hills to Renfrew, prioritize the design of their model. After all, adventurous vehicles should have an adventurous style.

The Ford Expedition and Ford Explorer represent two popular legacy models, each with a dedicated customer following. Let’s compare the differences and discover what makes each one a great choice. The Ford Expedition, a full-size SUV, features a body-on-frame construction, providing robust durability and a truck-like feel ideal for towing and off-road capability. It offers three rows of seating for up to eight passengers, making it perfect for larger families or those needing extra space. In contrast, the Ford Explorer, a midsize SUV, uses a unibody construction for a smoother, car-like ride with better maneuverability. It seats up to seven passengers, making it a great choice for driving around town and taking on city traffic. So, the question to ask is do you expect more urban/highway or off-road adventures?

Customization is a strength both models share. Maybe you’re interested in more off-road capability, in which case, both models offer sport-oriented trims which provide greater ground clearance, off-road oriented tires and a capable powertrain; there’s the Ford Explorer ST and the Ford Expedition Tremor. If you’re looking for luxury and the best of Ford’s cutting-edge technology, then the Platinum trim, available for either model, will be sure to impress. What matters when making a choice is to consider the price and features involved, you should take the time to compare trims so that you can better identify your ideal model. If you have any questions related to different trims, please feel free to contact us!

What About Interiors and Features?

The base models of the Ford Expedition and Ford Explorer both deliver a solid mix of comfort, utility, and technology, but with differences reflecting their size and target audiences. The Ford Expedition, as previously mentioned, provides up to eight seats, and a customizable interior. The Ford Explorer provides a similarly spacious interior with seating for up to seven. Both have durable cloth upholstery or premium leather and features like tri-zone climate control for passenger comfort. Both models have an infotainment system which includes a large touchscreen with Ford’s SYNC 4, offering seamless smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, making tech usage effortless. There’s also smart charging USB ports to keep everything running no matter how long the trip. Technology is a shared benefit of either model, you’ll be able to brave the open roads of Connoquenessing or the adventurous unknown with comfort and utility at the ready.

The Ford Expedition and Ford Explorer both prioritize safety with a comprehensive suite of standard and available features designed to protect passengers and enhance driving confidence. Both models come equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360™, which includes essential driver-assistance technologies like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist and a rearview camera. Additionally, the Ford Explorer includes post-collision braking as standard, which helps prevent secondary impacts after an accident. These shared safety features ensure that both SUVs are well-equipped to protect their occupants, so every drive through Renfrew is safe and secure.

How Do They Compare In Capability and Options?

Plenty of drivers, from Oak Hills to Lyndora, don’t just invest in Ford vehicles for the technology and safety, they’re also interested in a model that can provide phenomenal performance that makes every trip feel special. How do the two compare in that regard?

The Ford Expedition and Ford Explorer offer distinct powertrains that cater to different performance needs. Take the Ford Expedition – powered by a 3.5L EcoBoost® V6 engine, it delivers 400 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque in its standard configuration, offering robust towing capacity and confident acceleration, particularly for its size. For 2025, Ford is rolling out the Tremor® Expedition, featuring a high output engine that provides up to 440 horsepower and 510 lb.-ft. of torque, perfect for those looking for something extra under the hood. In contrast, the Ford Explorer features a standard 2.3L EcoBoost® I4 engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, providing a balance of power and efficiency suitable for midsize SUV drivers. For those seeking more performance, the Ford Explorer also offers an available 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 engine in higher trims, generating 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, enhancing its capability while maintaining its more agile profile compared to the larger Ford Expedition. These powertrain options reflect the Expedition’s focus on heavy-duty performance and towing, while the Explorer emphasizes versatility and sporty handling.

Performance isn’t just about horsepower, fuel economy is also an important part of the equation. The Ford Expedition achieves an EPA-estimated 16 MPG city and 24 MPG highway, prioritizing power and towing capacity. On the other hand, the midsize Ford Explorer offers better fuel economy, delivering up to 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. While the Ford Expedition is better suited for those needing maximum capability, the Ford Explorer stands out for its superior fuel efficiency, especially for daily commuting or long-distance travel.

Which Model Fits Your Budget?

Investing in any Ford vehicle means investing in a vehicle that you can rely on for years to come. Is there any notable difference between the Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition in terms of overall price? The short answer: yes.

The base model of the Ford Explorer begins at $39,755 MSRP, providing a more budget-friendly midsize SUV option. The base model of the Ford Expedition starts higher at approximately $62,000 MSRP. Both vehicles come with Ford’s standard warranty, which includes a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, ensuring coverage for essential repairs and peace of mind for owners. You should always factor your budget into your choice, especially with the significant difference in price. However, that shouldn’t deter you from making your choice if both fit within your budget.

#1 Cochran Ford Butler County also frequently holds specials for new and used vehicles. There’s also our certified pre-owned program which offers vehicles that have undergone a 152-point inspection, receive 24/7 roadside assistance and a 7-year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty. If you have any questions related to cost or warranties, please feel free to contact us.

Should I Choose the Ford Explorer or Ford Expedition?

The good news is that no matter your choice between the Ford Explorer or Ford Expedition, you’ll be getting a capable SUV that makes every trip an adventure. The main differences are seating – on the base models, performance and price.

The difference in size provides the Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition greater strengths in the city and off-road respectively. The greater performance of the Ford Expedition, and higher maximum seating capacity make it perfect for family adventures, but the Ford Explorer has the fuel economy to take you farther. The difference in price might also warrant considering. You should consider how much space you’ll need and your overall budget, then factor in what performance is better suited for your intended driving experience.

Whether you choose one of them, or decide you want to see the rest of our lineup, feel free to visit us at #1 Cochran Ford Butler County. From Lyndora to Renfrew and all across Western PA, drivers can always rely on the #1 Cochran family for all their automotive needs.