Interior
reviewed by
Here's where the big dimensions pay big dividends. Depending on seating
configuration, the Expedition can carry five (front bucket seats, center
bench), or six (front full-width seat, center bench) passengers, plus two
more if the optional third seat is installed. Front and center occupants
will be very comfortable in their well-padded chairs; the third seat is
tricky to get into and will be distinctly tight for adults.
Ford's market researchers claim there is no demand for a bare bones
vehicle in this class, so even the lower-priced XLT sports full carpeting,
attractive color-keyed door and dash panels and amenities galore, including
power windows, mirrors and door locks, air conditioning, a tilt steering
wheel and a good--if not quite symphonic--audio system that will please
many buyers. First- and second-row occupants get separate heat/vent/air
conditioning controls, with a set for the third seat optional.
Visually, the Expedition interior is most appealing. The curved dashboard
carries instruments and controls where they can be reached, and can be
supplemented by a large center console that offers additional storage space
and a place for those in front to rest their arms, and/or a roof-mounted
center console that provides a holder for a garage-door opener and sunglasses.
The Eddie Bauer roof console adds a digital display of the driver's choice
of date/time, average fuel economy or compass, plus a switch for the power
swing-out rear quarter windows.
Materials and finish quality are all first rate. Particularly noteworthy
are the soft-touch coverings applied to switches (which are also internally
lit at night, a nice touch) and door panels.
Next Page