The Ford Expedition V MAX 3.5 V6 (440 Hp) 4×4 SelectShift, launched in October 2024, represents the pinnacle of Ford’s full-size SUV offerings. Positioned as the top-tier trim within the fifth-generation Expedition (U502 chassis), the V MAX caters to buyers seeking maximum towing capacity, interior space, and performance. It builds upon the foundation of the standard Expedition, offering a more luxurious and capable experience. This variant is exclusively offered with Ford’s high-output EcoBoost V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system, making it a direct competitor to vehicles like the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban and GMC Yukon/Yukon XL.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | Expedition |
| Generation | Expedition V MAX |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (440 Hp) 4×4 SelectShift |
| Start of production | October, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6 kg/Hp, 167.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.8 kg/Nm, 262.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 440 Hp @ 5400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 125.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 691 Nm @ 3300 rpm, 509.66 lb.-ft. @ 3300 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EcoBoost |
| Engine displacement | 3497 cm3, 213.4 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 92.5 mm, 3.64 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 86.6 mm, 3.41 in. |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-Turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC, Ti-VCT |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l, 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2628 kg, 5793.75 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1022 l, 36.09 cu. ft |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3486 l, 123.11 cu. ft |
| Fuel tank capacity | 105 l, 27.74 US gal | 23.1 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4082 kg, 8999.27 lbs |
| Length | 5631 mm, 221.69 in |
| Width | 2032 mm, 80 in |
| Width with mirrors folded | 2149 mm, 84.61 in |
| Width including mirrors | 2403 mm, 94.61 in |
| Height | 1981 mm, 77.99 in |
| Wheelbase | 3340 mm, 131.5 in |
| Front track | 1730 mm, 68.11 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1722 mm, 67.8 in |
| Front overhang | 968 mm, 38.11 in |
| Rear overhang | 1323 mm, 52.09 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 224 mm, 8.82 in |
| Approach angle | 21.5° |
| Departure angle | 22.3° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 18.3° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission SelectShift |
| Front suspension | Coil spring, Double wishbone, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/70 R18; 275/70 R18; 275/60 R20; 275/50 R22; 285/40 R24 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 20; 22; 24 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Expedition V MAX is Ford’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This engine, internally designated as the third-generation EcoBoost, utilizes a twin-turbocharger setup with intercooling to deliver 440 horsepower at 5400 rpm and 691 lb-ft of torque at 3300 rpm. The engine employs direct fuel injection combined with multi-port fuel injection, optimizing both power and fuel efficiency. The valvetrain features double overhead camshafts (DOHC) with Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing (Ti-VCT), allowing for precise control of valve timing to maximize performance across the rev range. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. Paired with the engine is Ford’s 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. This transmission offers a wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both strong acceleration and improved highway fuel economy. The transmission is electronically controlled and features selectable drive modes, including Tow/Haul, Sport, and Normal.
Driving Characteristics
The Expedition V MAX delivers a commanding driving experience. The high torque output of the EcoBoost V6 provides effortless acceleration, even when fully loaded or towing. The 10-speed transmission is generally smooth and responsive, although some drivers have noted occasional hunting for the optimal gear in certain situations. The four-wheel-drive system, featuring an electronically controlled clutch, allows for seamless transitions between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, enhancing traction in various conditions. Compared to lower-trim Expeditions with the standard EcoBoost engine (around 380 hp), the V MAX offers a noticeable performance advantage, particularly in towing and passing maneuvers. The suspension is tuned for comfort, but the added weight of the V MAX can result in some body roll during aggressive cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The V MAX trim is comprehensively equipped. Standard features include a premium leather interior, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, a B&O sound system, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Ford’s SYNC 4 software. Advanced driver-assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking, are also standard. Optional extras include a rear-seat entertainment system, power-deployable running boards, and a variety of exterior styling enhancements. Interior upholstery is typically a combination of leather and wood trim, offering a luxurious feel.
Chassis & Braking
The Expedition V MAX utilizes a fully independent suspension system, featuring coil springs and a multi-link rear setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The V MAX benefits from larger brakes compared to lower trims, featuring ventilated discs at all four corners. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, along with electronic stability control. The chassis is reinforced to handle the increased power and towing capacity of the V MAX.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Expedition V MAX has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praise its powerful engine, spacious interior, and impressive towing capacity. However, some have noted its relatively high price and fuel consumption. Compared to other full-size SUVs, the Expedition V MAX offers a competitive combination of performance, features, and value. Fuel economy is rated at around 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway, which is typical for a vehicle of this size and capability. Reliability reports are still emerging, given the recent launch, but early indications suggest that the EcoBoost engine and 10-speed transmission are generally reliable.
Legacy
The Expedition V MAX represents Ford’s commitment to providing a high-performance, full-size SUV for demanding customers. Its long-term reliability will depend on factors such as maintenance and driving habits. However, the EcoBoost engine has proven to be durable in other Ford vehicles, and the 10-speed transmission has undergone extensive testing. On the used car market, the V MAX is expected to hold its value well due to its desirable features and capabilities. It is likely to become a sought-after trim level among buyers looking for a premium and capable full-size SUV.
