Ford will be releasing the all-new 2018 Expedition later
this year, with a new additional package that enables better off road
capabilities. The 2018 Ford Expedition FX4 is meant to be a family utility
vehicle, ideal for travelling on trails and unpaved roads, crawling over rocks,
and cutting through mud- all on top of cruising comfortably on the highway.
Paired with the Expeditions 3.5 L EcoBoost engine, generating 375 horsepower
and 470 lb-ft of torque, and a 10 speed transmission, this SUV is bound to be a
force to be reckoned with.
“The FX4 Off-Road package delivers off-road driving
confidence,” said Mike Kipley, Expedition vehicle engineering manager. “The
technology we’re using works to adapt to different driving conditions so
customers can enjoy the adventure without worry.”
According to Ford officials, at least 20% of Expedition
owners use their SUV for off-road adventure, hence why they deemed an off-road
package the most apt for the Expedition. The new Expedition is going to be
built on an all new aluminum-alloy body and rugged steel frame that weighs 300
pounds less than the previous version. The new features included into the Expedition
don’t end at off-roading though, as much of the saved weight from the
now-lightweight frame has been reapplied to other faucets of the SUV; such as generous
interior space, better connectivity, and smarter technology.
The golden feature included in this new package is going to
be the all-new easy-to-use Terrain Management System. This new system allows
customers to select from seven special drive modes that help Expedition
automatically adapt to different road conditions. This includes normal for
around town driving, sport for more spirited trips, tow/haul for improved
towing and hauling performance, eco for enhanced fuel economy,
grass/gravel/snow for loose terrain, sand for low traction situations and
mud/rut for uneven surfaces. Expedition FX4 drivers also can manually select
either 2WD or 4WD modes in a given drive mode, depending on their preferences
and terrain.