New 2009 Ford Expedition EL

What do you get when you combine raw power, abundant passenger/cargo space, cutting edge technology, crazy-rugged off-road capability and standard safety features?  The family-friendly 2009 Ford Expedition EL SUV.

With four well-equipped trim levels available – the XLT, Eddie Bauer, Limited, and King Ranch – the rugged SUV can be upgraded at all levels to an Expedition EL. Boasting 131 cubic feet of cargo volume – a 21 percent increase over the regular-wheelbase Expedition – the EL competes with the legendary Chevrolet Suburban, while the other trims battle against the Chevrolet Tahoe, Toyota Sequoia and Dodge Durango.

The Expedition is powered by a 5.4-liter, 300-horsepower Triton® V-8 engine with Flex-Fuel technology (new for 2009) and is mated to a class-exclusive six-speed automatic transmission.  When equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package, the Expedition can tow up to a maximum 9,200 lbs.  The first-in-class PowerFold third-row seat folds flat for extra cargo room at the touch of a button, and it boasts the most third-row legroom of any full-size SUV and enough room to carry up to nine people.  The EL boasts 130.8 cubic feet of volume, which is second only to the Chevy Suburban.

On-road and off-road capabilities are solid. The ControlTrac® 4x4 System, standard on the Expedition 4x4, provides added traction and off-road capability in high or low four-wheel drive mode, or 4x4 auto mode. A power rear liftgate and power running boards ensure easy cargo loading and passenger entry.

With the Expedition, safety is a big deal. AdvanceTrac® with RSC® (roll stability control) is a class-exclusive standard feature, monitoring driver input, road conditions, and slippage at all four wheels, providing added confidence in a variety of weather and road conditions. Front seat airbags, side-impact airbags, plus the Safety Canopy™ system with second generation side curtain airbags enhance protection for occupants in all three rows. An optional Reverse Sensing System uses an audible signal to alert the driver to any potential obstacles up to six feet from the rear when backing up.

Amenities are abundant in the Expedition as well. An available rear-seat DVD entertainment system comes with an 8-inch LCD monitor, two sets of wireless headphones and a remote control - perfect for movies or video games. Enjoy the SYNC™ Communications and Entertainment System, which is new for 2009. Use voice commands to access your music collection by genre, album, artist or song title and operate your Bluetooth®.

With tons of cargo room, loads of power, and a wealth of interior amenities, the 2009 Ford Expedition EL is the perfect full-size SUV for big families.