2002 Ford Expedition: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The smaller of Ford's two full-size SUVs sees only detail changes for 2002, with a redesigned version due in late spring as an early 2003 model. Expedition shares its design with the Lincoln Navigator, which offers more luxury features and a more-powerful engine, and likewise is redesigned for '03. Expedition is available in XLT and Eddie Bauer trim levels, with front bench or bucket seats. Three-passenger 2nd- and 3rd-row benches are standard, 2nd-row buckets are optional. Power adjustable gas and brake pedals are standard. Available engines are V8s of 4.6 or 5.4 liters, teamed only with automatic transmission. Expedition is offered with rear-wheel drive or Ford's Control Trac 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. Antilock 4-wheel disc brakes are standard. Front side airbags are optional. A rear entertainment system is also optional, and for '02 is available on the XLT as well as the Eddie Bauer.

COMPETITION

Though this segment has cooled somewhat with the rise in fuel prices, it's still one of the hottest. Our Best Buys are the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban.

Recommended are the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon. For a few more bucks you can get the Toyota Land Cruiser. Its high price is the only thing holding back this refined and drivable SUV. We love the size, comfort, and power of these big SUVs but wish they got a few more miles per gallon.