Both the V10 engine and the turbodiesel get this heavyweight up to cruising speed fairly quickly. Passing power is impressive, aided by smooth, prompt downshifts. A 2WD V10 Limited averaged 10.8 mpg--one of the lowest figures we've recorded. A stable straight-line cruiser, the Excursion easily soaks up most broken pavement, but bigger bumps register rather sharply. Though not really ponderous in normal driving, steering is rather light but slow-responding. Curb-to-curb turning diameter is almost 50 feet, so swinging into a driveway or parking lot can be a chore. Stopping power feels strong and brakes are easily modulated, but stopping distances are long. Wind rush and road roar are suppressed quite well. The diesel idles noisily but cruises without fuss. Eight adults fit without painful squeezing. Second-row passengers enjoy exceptional leg room. The driver's seat is comfortable, but a wide transmission tunnel intrudes somewhat into the front passenger's footwell. Even with all seats in place, cargo volume is a class-leading 48 cubic feet. The one-piece third-row bench folds nearly flat and can be removed, though it's heavy and cumbersome. Gauges are easy to see. Controls are well within the driver's reach, though the steering wheel partially conceals the 4WD switch. Forward visibility is fine, but a smaller vehicle can hide along the Excursion's tall flanks, demanding caution. Four-wheel-drive models ride three inches higher than 2WD Excursions, but entry/exit isn't bad. Running boards provide a useful foothold, rear doors are long, and clearance to the back seat is adequate.

Value for the Money
Massive size and weight are serious drawbacks for anything intended to be used as a "suburban utility vehicle." The Excursion is simply too cumbersome for ordinary driving, suffering abysmal fuel economy as well as impaired mobility. Towing capacity and four-wheel drive are the positive points.