Oddly enough, the Ford engineers tell us that the Expedition's complement of dynamic safety features makes it possible to deliver this improvement in overall driving performance. The Expedition can be tuned for far greater responsiveness to the driver because the electronics can be relied upon to compensate for any unusual circumstances.

The prime technology here is Ford's unique stability control, which incorporates sensors to detect both roll angle and yaw rate. If the Expedition gets out of shape, the system reduces the throttle or applies the brakes to help keep the vehicle upright. This is the third generation of a system originally engineered by Volvo. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety claims its data suggest stability systems in general reduce the chance of single-vehicle rollovers by SUVs by an astonishing 80 percent.

For all its comfort and stability, the Expedition is still about utility rather than sport. When it comes to driving, the Expedition feels very heavy, and while it offers driving precision, it's not as alert or sporty as its GM and Nissan competitors. Though the brakes have been upgraded for 2007, they still seem to require a lot of effort to get the Expedition whoa'd down. Nevertheless, The Expedition's overall driving performance is far more refined than any other vehicle in its class.

Summary

Fuel prices have chased lots of people away from full-size sport-utilities, but all the vehicles in this class now offer a surprising amount of car-like refinement in addition to the customary utility. Even in this group, the 2007 Ford Expedition stands apart because it not only offers the best overall utility package but also delivers superior performance in virtually every way. As fuel prices help shift priorities to smaller, more efficient vehicles, it's important to remember that full-size sport-utilities will become more useful than ever simply because no other vehicle can do so much with so many people. Ford is right on target with its family adventure concept, and the Ford Expedition is the best vehicle for family vacation travel on the American road.

Model Line Overview

Model lineup:Ford Expedition XLT 2WD ($29,995); XLT 4WD ($32,895); XLT EL 2WD ($34,445); XLT EL 4WD ($37,345); Eddie Bauer 2WD ($36,395); Eddie Bauer 4WD ($39,295); Eddie Bauer EL 2WD ($39,045); Eddie Bauer EL 4WD ($41,945); Limited 2WD ($37,845); Limited 4WD ($40,745); Limited EL 2WD ($40,495); Limited EL 4WD ($43,395)

Engines:5.4-liter SOHC 24-valve V8

Transmissions:6-speed automatic

Safety equipment (standard):dual-stage front air bags, front side-impact air bags, roof-mounted side-impact curtain airbags for first- and second- and third-seat occupant head protection; seat belts with pre-tensioners and load limiters; tire pressure monitor; traction and stability control; anti-lock brakes (ABS)

Basic warranty:3 years/36,000 miles

Assembled in:Wayne, Michigan