The 2020 Ford Expedition 4WD, equipped with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6, returns a combined 19 MPG. That figure, while perhaps unremarkable, reflects moving a three-ton SUV with genuine off-road capability and the ability to tow up to 9,300 pounds. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for sipping fuel, it’s a tool relied upon by families needing space, truck-like utility, and the confidence to tackle any weather condition.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2020 Ford Expedition 4WD at 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the penalty in stop-and-go traffic for a large vehicle. Its weight and sheer size demands more energy to repeatedly accelerate.

The highway MPG, while still not class-leading, demonstrates the EcoBoost V6’s ability to deliver reasonable economy when cruising at a steady speed. A lighter foot on the accelerator is crucial to achieving these numbers. Remember, the “Eco” in EcoBoost is only realized with conscious driving habits.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Ford Expedition 4WD at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing running costs across different vehicles, acknowledging that individual driving habits and localized fuel prices will ultimately determine the actual expense.

Drivers in areas with higher fuel costs will obviously see a larger annual expense, requiring more diligent fuel management habits.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a standardized comparison point, real-world fuel economy for the 2020 Ford Expedition 4WD can vary significantly. Drivers frequently towing, consistently carrying heavy loads, or navigating challenging terrain will likely see MPG figures below the EPA estimates.

Conversely, those who primarily use the Expedition for highway cruising with minimal cargo may achieve slightly better results. The Expedition’s size and weight are constant factors, but driving style plays an important role in determining ultimate fuel consumption. Aggressive acceleration and high speeds decimate fuel economy in any vehicle, but especially so in a large SUV.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2020 Ford Expedition 4WD occupies a competitive but not exceptional position. A Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD with the 5.3L V8 scores 17 MPG combined. The Nissan Armada, while offering similar levels of space and capability, lags behind at 15 MPG combined. Even the Toyota Sequoia, known for its reliability, only manages 14 MPG combined.

The long-wheelbase versions, the Expedition MAX, Tahoe Suburban, and others, will perform similarly to these base numbers. For buyers prioritizing space and towing capacity above all else, the Expedition’s fuel economy is an acceptable trade-off; those seeking better mileage might consider smaller SUVs or even minivans, but they’ll sacrifice significant capability. Explore all Ford fuel economy data for a broader comparison.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the simplest ways to improve fuel economy in the 2020 Expedition is to lighten the load. Remove any unnecessary cargo from the vehicle, as every extra pound adds to the energy required to accelerate and maintain speed. This is especially relevant for a vehicle as large as the Expedition, where seemingly minor weight additions can have a noticeable impact.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The EcoBoost V6 delivers ample power, making it tempting to accelerate quickly, but doing so consumes a significant amount of fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipation of traffic conditions to minimize braking are key to maximizing efficiency. Coasting to red lights instead of braking hard can make big differences over time.

Ensure that the tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and decreasing fuel economy. Check the tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level found on the doorjamb sticker.

This should be especially important if your adventures off the beaten path frequently require airing down the tires. Don’t forget to reinflate!

Minimize idling time. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines start quickly and efficiently, making this a simple way to save fuel.

Also consider exploring EXPEDITION MPG across all years.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long trips. This is especially effective on relatively flat terrain, where the engine doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain speed. Just be mindful of using it responsibly in varying terrain or heavy traffic.