A combined 20 MPG isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but for the 2019 Ford Expedition 2WD, it’s a reasonable trade for a vehicle that prioritizes space, towing capability, and comfortable family transport. This isn’t a commuter car; it’s a purpose-built tool for hauling families and gear, and its fuel consumption reflects that. Buyers typically aren’t cross-shopping it against a Prius; they need the passenger and cargo volume this body-on-frame SUV provides, and they understand the compromise.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway paint a clear picture. Stop-and-go traffic emphasizes the Expedition’s weight and the energy required to get it moving, while consistent highway speeds allow the efficient 3.5L EcoBoost V6 to stretch each gallon further. The 10-speed automatic transmission contributes to that highway efficiency, keeping the engine in its sweet spot for power delivery and fuel conservation. The city MPG is what owners should realistically expect in daily driving, especially if their commute involves frequent stops and starts. Highway numbers will greatly please those who do a lot of long-distance driving.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Ford Expedition 2WD is $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG rating, and factoring in the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits and local gasoline prices, $2,200 provides a useful benchmark for prospective buyers to consider as they budget for vehicle ownership. It’s an important factor when figuring in car payments, insurance, and routine maintenance.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates offer a useful baseline, but drivers often experience different fuel economy figures in the real world. Factors such as aggressive acceleration and braking will negatively impact fuel consumption. Carrying heavy loads, towing trailers, and even tire pressure are all influential variables. Owners who prioritize fuel efficiency and drive conservatively can likely meet or even slightly exceed the EPA estimates, while those who frequently use the Expedition’s capabilities for towing and hauling should anticipate lower numbers.

How it compares

The 2019 Ford Expedition 2WD’s fuel economy positions it competitively within its class. A similarly equipped Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD with the 5.3L V8 achieves around 18 MPG combined, making the Expedition a slightly more frugal choice. The Nissan Armada, another competitor in this category, delivers around 15 MPG combined with its standard V8, highlighting the Expedition’s relative efficiency. Even the Toyota Sequoia, known for its reliability but not its fuel economy, struggles to match the Expedition, achieving only 15 MPG combined. For buyers prioritizing space and capability alongside reasonable fuel costs, the Expedition is a good choice. You can find all Ford fuel economy data on our website for further comparison.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are vital for maximizing fuel economy in the Expedition. Avoid hard starts and stops, as these actions significantly increase fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible. Use cruise control on the highway to optimize fuel efficiency on long trips.

Regularly check and maintain proper tire pressure, which is often overlooked, yet critical. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Refer to the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure, and ensure your tires are properly inflated. Check your tires before any roadtrip, big or small.

Reduce excess weight in the vehicle. Carrying unnecessary cargo adds to the Expedition’s overall weight, negatively impacting fuel economy. Remove any items that are not essential. This is more of an issue than you might think, especially for those who often haul gear.

Lastly, proper maintenance is essential for optimal fuel economy. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups ensure that the engine is running efficiently. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in the owner’s manual to keep the Expedition performing at its best. Remember to check out EXPEDITION MPG across all years for even more information.