What Makes a 2018 Ford Expedition an FX4? First Drive Off-Road Review (Video)

2018 ford expedition fx4
2018 Ford Expedition FX4

What makes a 2018 Ford Expedition and FX4? The Expedition is all new for 2018. It borrows some of the underpinnings from the F-150, including the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and the 10-speed automatic transmission. It has a unique independent rear suspension setup and a rotary knob for the shifter. It uses a Ford Super Duty dashboard, glove boxes, and instrument panel for a tough appearance.

The FX4 formula is fairly straight forward. This off-road package does not give the SUV any additional ground clearance, but it does include a limited slip differential (aka. lockable differential), specially tuned shocks, 4×4 system with a low range transfer case, underbody skid plates, more off-road worthy tires, and a few design touches to differentiate it from other Expeditions. Namely, it includes an unique wheel design and running boards.

How does it handle off-road? This is precisely what we wanted to find out, and we took it on an off-road trail that Ford prepared during the first drive event in Malibu, California. This trail was tight and steep at times, with loose small rocks in places. This giant SUV handled the tight turns (we even had to make a three-point turn once). The trail allowed us to test the hill descent control system and the traction of the 4×4 on loose surfaces. It was a positive first experience, but once again – Ford specifically chose this course.

Check out the video to see how it did.