The 2023 Ford Expedition Timberline AWD gets 17 MPG combined. While it’s true that fuel economy isn’t this SUV’s main selling point, remember that this vehicle is built for hauling, towing, and off-roading. Timberline buyers prioritize capability, space, and a reliable, strong image.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Timberline at 16 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the realities of driving a large, heavy vehicle powered by a turbocharged 3.5L V6. Stop-and-go city driving is the Timberline’s biggest weakness, because its weight and the engine’s turbo lag contribute to lower efficiency. Highway cruising is better, showing the engine’s ability to operate more efficiently at a consistent speed. Aerodynamics also play a significant role, and so the Expedition’s boxy shape isn’t ideal. The 10-speed automatic transmission works to keep the engine in its optimal power band, but physics limits what it can do with a vehicle of this size.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Ford Expedition Timberline at $2,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs could change based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. Paying attention to driving habits can affect the final cost.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world MPG often varies. Expect numbers slightly below the EPA ratings, especially with frequent driving in congested areas, towing, or off-roading. Aggressive driving habits will also decrease fuel economy. Some drivers might see numbers closer to the EPA estimates during long highway trips with minimal traffic, but consistency is unlikely. An average of 14-17 MPG in mixed driving conditions is more realistic. You can see EXPEDITION MPG across all years on our model pages.

How it compares

The Expedition Timberline’s fuel economy is normal compared to its competitors. The Chevrolet Tahoe Z71, another off-road-oriented full-size SUV, gets similar MPG, around 16 MPG combined with its 5.3L V8. The Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro, with its hybrid powertrain, offers a slight improvement with a combined MPG of around 20. The Sequoia’s hybrid system adds cost and complexity. A standard Jeep Wagoneer with the Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six will achieve combined fuel economy in the 17-18MPG vicinity. These comparisons are important for the Timberline buyer, who may consider alternatives but ultimately prioritizes the Ford’s specific blend of strong performance, space, and brand loyalty. All all Ford fuel economy data is available on our make pages.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid quick acceleration. The Timberline’s turbocharged engine responds easily to inputs, but heavy acceleration burns extra fuel. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow will help keep fuel consumption in check.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, hurting fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the levels recommended on the doorjamb sticker. Pay attention to tire pressure before and after off-road trips to maintain optimal efficiency and tire wear.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without moving you forward. This is important in urban environments where stoplights and traffic jams are common.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The more the vehicle weighs, the more fuel it uses. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area to lower the load. This applies if you’re not hauling or towing.

Consider cruise control on the highway. Keeping a consistent speed can improve fuel economy. Cruise control minimizes speed fluctuations, leading to more efficient fuel consumption, especially on long drives.