We’re expecting baby #3 and need to upgrade to a 3-row vehicle. We’re tall, make Costco runs, plan to get a dog, and spend time in snowy mountains, so we’re leaning toward a Ford Expedition. It seems perfect—spacious, 4x4, and lots of features—but the price tag is intimidating.
We’re looking at a used 2019 or 2020 model and have around $50-55k to put down from selling our house and trading in a car (likely my husband’s Camry). We’ve never spent more than $25k on a car, so this feels like a huge leap.
Would love opinions on whether the Expedition is worth the hype and the money. Any other cars we should consider?
Have you thought about a minivan? Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Kia Carnival, or Chrysler Pacifica are all great options, and some have AWD. They’re cheaper and more practical with young kids, and you won’t feel as bad when the kids mess it up.
We did think about that, especially since some have AWD. But we’d like to eventually get a small travel trailer for camping, so we need something that can tow.
When are you thinking about getting a trailer? Camping with three little kids sounds challenging. We have a 2021 AWD Sienna, and it’s super practical for our family of four.
Hopefully within the next 3-5 years. We’re not planning on flying anywhere with young kids, so camping seems like a good option. Plus, I don’t want to sleep on the ground anymore!
We used to tow a 3,500 lb boat with our Windstar, and it handled it just fine. Vans are super practical for hauling kids and gear, plus they’re easier to load than SUVs. I’d seriously consider one.
If you’re planning to tow, make sure you understand the limits. Expedition’s towing ratings assume minimal weight inside the car. Once you add kids, gear, and a trailer, you might be pushing the payload limits. Even a small trailer like a Winnebago 2100BH could max it out once you’re packed for a trip.
It’s a 2020 Limited. If you’re considering it, definitely go for the Max if you want extra trunk space. We also have captain’s chairs in the second row, which is great for using the 3rd row more easily.
The Telluride isn’t even in the same size category as the Expedition. If you’re looking for full-size SUVs, you might want to compare the Expedition Max to the Suburban, or even look at the Armada or Sequoia.
I’m a Suburban owner, but if I were buying today, I’d go for the Expedition Max. The 3.5 EcoBoost has been refined over the years, and the platform is solid now. To get the most out of it, plan to keep it long-term—full-size SUVs are built to last and have low maintenance costs if you care for them properly.
If you’re open to cross-shopping, the Suburban might give you more for your money. It has more cargo space, a reliable drivetrain, and less depreciation. But either way, you can’t go wrong—just make sure you test drive both!
There have been some issues, more with the 6.2 than the 5.3. But overall, the 5.3 is still a solid engine, and the new 10-speed transmission has been a big improvement.
I work for Ford, and if you’re looking at an Expedition Max Limited, it’s a great option if you need the size and don’t mind spending a bit more. The 3rd row space is unbeatable, but you’ll be spending more on gas. For smaller budgets, consider the Explorer—it’s a good size upgrade from the Edge and way cheaper.