Eighteen MPG combined, that’s what the 2016 Ford Expedition 2WD with its 3.5L V6 gets. It might not sound impressive, but it’s a figure owners accept. This isn’t a vehicle designed for fuel efficiency. It’s for large families who frequently tow, haul cargo, or simply need the immense interior volume a traditional body-on-frame SUV offers. It’s built to work, and 18 MPG is the trade-off for its capabilities.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 Expedition 2WD are 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the Expedition’s weight is a factor. If your driving is primarily urban, expect more frequent fill-ups. The highway number is more appealing. At a steady 65-75 mph, the Expedition’s six-speed automatic transmission settles into its overdrive gears, and the turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost engine cruises efficiently. The highway MPG is most significant on long road trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ford Expedition 2WD is $2,450. This is based on 15,000 miles of driving per year, the EPA’s combined MPG estimate, and national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs may vary depending on local fuel prices and personal driving habits. If you drive significantly more than 15,000 miles annually, or if fuel prices are higher in your area, expect to pay more. Shorter commutes or lower gas prices will result in lower fuel expenses. Remember this is an estimate, and your actual expenses may differ.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Many Expedition owners report numbers slightly below the EPA’s combined rating, often around 15-17 MPG in mixed driving. Hauling heavy loads or towing will decrease fuel economy, sometimes into the single digits. Aggressive driving, including quick acceleration and hard braking, will also hurt MPG. Careful drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and maintain consistent speeds on the highway can sometimes achieve figures closer to or slightly above the EPA estimates. Tire pressure, regular maintenance, and the use of quality fuel also improve fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2016 Ford Expedition’s fuel economy is representative of its class, but competitors have improved. The Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD with its 5.3L V8 is rated at 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway, giving it a slight edge on the highway. The Toyota Sequoia, known for its strong reliability but less for its fuel efficiency, achieves 13 MPG city and 17 MPG highway. The Nissan Armada lags behind in fuel economy. These comparisons highlight the sacrifices Expedition buyers make, specifically accepting moderate fuel consumption for the vehicle’s size, towing capacity, and overall utility. Check EXPEDITION MPG across all years to see any changes with other model years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Expedition’s EcoBoost engine responds well to a light foot. Avoid aggressive acceleration and maintain a steady speed when possible. The turbochargers deliver power efficiently, but only when you’re smooth with the throttle pedal. Coax the power from the engine.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual. Even a few PSI difference can impact your MPG.

Regular maintenance is important. Ensure that your Expedition receives oil changes, air filter replacements, and other scheduled services. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, translating to better fuel economy. Also, view all Ford fuel economy data.

Minimize unnecessary weight. The heavier the vehicle, the more fuel it consumes. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area and passenger compartment to reduce the load on the engine. Even small amounts of extra weight can add up and affect your MPG, particularly in city driving.

Plan your trips strategically. Combine errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts, which consume more fuel. Avoid rush hour traffic when possible, as stop-and-go conditions reduce fuel economy. Mapping your route ahead of time can help you avoid congested areas and optimize your driving efficiency.