Myk Belmonte: Our next candidate for this elections is something big, something popular. But only the selected few are invited. Will it appeal to the masses? The answer lies somewhere in this article.
2003-2006 Ford Expedition
HistoryThere is one thing that connects the senator and the Ford Expedition, statement. If these senators want to arrive in style, they would be lining up for the Expedition. But that was 2003, 10 years later, these politicians had ditched their Expeditions for Land Cruisers due to the standard diesel engines. Even them, whose pork barrel money were used to fuel up their babies, have been depleted.
Developed under the U222 code, the second generation Expedition was available in 2002 as a 2003 vehicle. New items such as a four-wheel independent suspension system, an independent rear suspension, an increased towing capacity, and updated steering, braking, and electronic systems. Changes with noise insulation were also made, since Ford wants their customers to forget the truck like predecessor. The third row seat need not be removed for additional storage, they can be stowed flat.
Apart from the changes evident in Expeditions sold overseas, the Philippine version had a 10 seater option but all three rows face front. Do you miss the side facing jumpseats that did not have any comfort? No. Still, the elite still lined up for this hulking SUV. In the second hand market, would the voters (or in the case, buyers) plunk in their money for this one? Read on.
Value and CostsSo, you have reached your status but you want to be in a low profile appearance. You have a budget good enough for a brand new Vios, but have a oil well at your backyard or located somewhere in Palawan. Hmm, for a practical choice, head to your nearest car dealer and scout their lot for a second generation Expedition. Prices range from P500,000-P800,000, depending on year and condition.
Is it practical to own when parts are a problem? Maybe, but for the case of the Expedition, they can be scarce but Ford specialist shops are there for your needs. Fuel economy is not a strength, and you must have an eye with the suspension system.
Exterior and InteriorSome nip and tuck operations were done that chiseled off the muscles in favor of elegant curves. Just like a caveman who went to civilization, wearing a decent pair of shirt and shorts than something fit in the jungle. Nothing much to be talked about here.
Let's discuss more of the interior since you'll be inside it more often. Quality of materials used are much improved than the Fisher Price predecessor, although cheap ones are still there, it is not as widespread. Rather than wood, a black and beige befits the vehicle and does not feel tacky. Want leather? Better settle for the Eddie Bauer model since the XLT, which you'll encounter more often, has fabric seating as standard. XLT models can seat 10, but all of them facing front and there are four seat belts (yes, you heard it right) in the second row. You can stow them when not in use. Eddie Bauer ones make do with a three belt per row scheme. The third row can be folded when necessary and disappear like magic. You can be comfortable driving one but still awkward when used from a sedan. You wont feel any shortage of space in the Expedition.
EngineTwo V8 engines are available, but with only one drivetrain to pair with. The common one fitted in XLT models is the 4,601cc Modular engine which carries 232hp at 4,750rpm and 395Nm at 3,450rpm. Familiar with the figures? This engine was carried over from the
previous generation model. With the introduction of the Eddie Bauer trim in late 2003, a new engine was made available. Still from the Modular engine family, a 5,408cc engine that has 260hp at 4,500rpm and 475Nm at 2,500rpm. Despite the heavy weight, the 4.6 V8 would provide you power at any rpm band. What more with the 5.4 V8, it will satisfy your hunger for power more. You wont win any fuel economy awards with either engines, and even fitting a diesel engine is a costly process.
Driving ImpressionsUnlike the clumsy handling of the first generation, handling is much more behaved and with the suspension settings revised, power and torque had been balanced. You'll be more comfortable driving this since this is more nimble and feels smaller than it is. There is no need to worry when doing high speed driving, but remember to drive safely. Ride is still stiff, though.
VerdictYou still get the presence and power that a senator wants but behaves like a nun, then a second generation Expedition is a great choice. Economy freaks need not buy or apply here. You get the popularity but will it serve you? Buyer, choose wisely.
The Good:- Improved handling
- Manageable to drive
- Admits everyone
The Bad:- Stiff ride
- Fuel economy
- Some cheap materials
The Pick: XLT
THE SPECSEngines: 4,601cc and 5,408cc Modular V8 gasoline
Power: 232hp @ 4,750rpm (4.6), 260hp @ 4,500rpm (5.4)
Torque: 395Nm @ 3,450rpm (4.6), 475Nm @ 2,500rpm (5.4)
Fuel Consumption: 3-6km/L (city), 6-9km/L (highway) (*estimated and varies)
Transmission: 4-speed automatic
Suspension: Front and rear independent double wishbone
MORE INFOPrice (New): P1,949,000-P2,795,000
Price (Now): P500,000-P800,000
Rivals: Chevrolet Suburban, Chevrolet Tahoe, Jeep Commander, Dodge Durango, Toyota Land Cruiser
On Sale: 2003-2006
Resources:http://expeditionforum.com/http://forum.fordclubph.com/viewforum.php?f=62
Contacts:Ford EDSA - (02) 744-2222
Ford Libis - (02) 637-2044
Ford Quality Center - (02) 744-2234
Photos courtesy of http://metromanila.olx.com.ph/2003-ford-expedition-ref-10441-iid-505082904
