2008 Ford Expedition Review: Exterior

Both the long and regular-length versions of the Expedition use many of the components from the Ford F-150pickup. However, the Expedition features independent rear suspension, chassis technology that improves driving precision, ride comfort, and rear-seat roominess.

This third-generation Expedition features a three-bar grille, large headlights, and a domed hood that combine to deliver a look that's both distinctive and respectable. There are several different wheel designs, including 20-inchers with a chrome finish. The Expedition doesn't have the style of GM's sport-utilities, but at least it avoids the science-fiction look of the Nissan Armada.

Expedition EL models stretch the wheelbase by a foot to 131 inches. Overall, the EL measures 14.8 inches longer than the standard Expedition, and that adds 24 cubic feet of cargo volume, an increase from 108.3 to 130.8 cubic feet behind the front seats.