The five-speed automatic transmission that comes exclusively with the diesel offers a Tow-Haul mode which, when activated, automatically minimizes shifts and maximizes available torque. According to Ford, this can help increase a driver's feeling of control when towing large loads up and down steep grades.
We didn't try the standard 5.4-liter V8, but we suspect it would struggle if you loaded six passengers and luggage and headed for the mountains. With 255 horsepower at 4500 rpm, and 350 pounds-feet of torque at 2500 rpm, the V8 is best suited for the flatlands.
While 2WD Excursions come with Ford's signature Twin I-Beam independent front suspension and coil springs, the 4WD version rides on a solid front axle and leaf springs. But differences in ride and handling between the two are surprisingly subtle. Our test vehicle had the 4WD Trailer Tow Group ($275), which includes a rear anti-roll bar, and it seemed to compensate for some of the weight up front from a handling standpoint. The 4x4 handles well for a big rig, tackling corners with confidence and offering good grip on dirt roads.
At high speeds, the Excursion is stable. Strong crosswinds and an 18-wheeler going in the opposite direction had little effect. However, Excursion does not offer the ride sophistication of the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL 1500 models. The all-terrain tires that are now standard on all 4WD Excursions are good for muddy trails, but the all-season tires that come with 2WD models are smoother and quieter for towing long distances.
Its long wheelbase means the Excursion is not a serious off-road vehicle. But the part-time four-wheel-drive system and 8.1-inch ground clearance should get you up some pretty gnarly dirt roads in nasty weather. Ford's clever vacuum-controlled hub-locking system quickly engages four-wheel drive on the fly by pressing a button. A low-range set of gears is ready whenever you need to tackle steep, slippery terrain. If you do drive off the pavement or on snow-covered roads, you'll want to opt for the limited-slip differential ($250) and the transfer-case skid plate ($100).
Towing, more than anything, is what the Excursion is designed to do. Properly equipped, it can tow trailers up to 11,000 pounds. That's more than enough to pull a hefty boat. All Excursions come ready to tow, with a Class IV receiver hitch and factory-wired seven-pin electrical connector; a four-pin adapter is also included. All Excursions also come with D-load range light-truck tires, LT265/75R-16D.
There's no getting around the fact that this is a big vehicle and its size is apparent in downtown areas. It's so heavy that it doesn't offer a big payload. The Suburban is easier to manage. However, if you're used to big rigs, then you'll find the Excursion surprisingly maneuverable and easy to park. Next Page