Anyone considering the 2016 Ford Expedition EL 2WD 3.5L 6-cyl should know it gets 17 MPG combined. No one buys this extended-length Expedition expecting Prius-like numbers. This is a large, truck-based SUV designed to haul families, tow trailers, and conquer road trips with comfort and space as the top priorities. Its fuel economy is a trade-off, accepted by buyers who value its capabilities more than its efficiency.

City and highway performance

The Expedition EL’s EPA estimates break down to 15 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the difficulty of moving a vehicle this size through stop-and-go traffic. Expect a lot of engine idling, and considerable weight to get moving from every stop light.

On the open road, the 21 MPG highway number is more attainable, especially if you adopt a smooth, steady driving style. That number will drop quickly if you’re towing a trailer or loading the vehicle down with luggage. The 3.5L EcoBoost engine is capable of such tasks, but it needs more fuel to do them.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2016 Ford Expedition EL 2WD is $2,600. This assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, using a national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the grade of fuel you use. If you live in an area with high gas prices or frequently drive more than 15,000 miles per year, your annual fuel expenses will likely exceed this estimate.

Real-world expectations

The EPA numbers are a good starting point, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Expedition EL owners report achieving figures slightly below the EPA estimates, particularly in combined driving. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads can all negatively impact fuel consumption. Weather conditions, such as strong headwinds or extreme temperatures, can also play a role. Monitor your own fuel economy over time to get a more accurate picture of what to expect in your specific driving situation.

How it compares

The 2016 Expedition EL 2WD’s fuel economy isn’t class-leading. A similarly sized 2016 Chevrolet Suburban 2WD with the 5.3L V8 is rated at 16 MPG combined, putting it neck-and-neck, but the Ford’s turbocharged engine delivers more effortless torque. Stepping down a size, a 2016 Toyota Highlander AWD manages around 20 MPG combined with its V6 engine, but offers dramatically less towing ability. Even newer, more efficient SUVs like the 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L with the 3.6L V6 only achieves around 21 MPG combined in 4×2 guise. These comparisons highlight the Expedition EL’s specific mission: it prioritizes space and utility over fuel efficiency. Owners accept this trade-off because they need the vehicle’s inherent strengths more than they need hybrid-like MPG figures. You can always examine all all Ford fuel economy data or more narrow down your research by viewing EXPEDITION MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

First, drive smoothly. The Expedition EL’s EcoBoost engine responds well to gentle acceleration and consistent throttle application. Avoid hard braking and sudden acceleration, as these habits consume significantly more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. The Expedition EL might be large, but it’s not a muscle car.

Proper tire inflation is critical. Check your tires regularly and ensure they are inflated to the pressure recommended on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. A simple tire pressure gauge is a worthwhile investment.

Minimize unnecessary weight. The Expedition EL is already a heavy vehicle, so avoid carrying around extra cargo that you don’t need. Remove items from the cargo area and passenger seats that are not essential. Every pound saved contributes to improved fuel efficiency.

Use cruise control on the highway when appropriate. Engaging cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy. Avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain or stop-and-go traffic, as the system may overcompensate, leading to increased fuel consumption. Letting the transmission naturally respond to the road’s undulations will yield better mileage.

Consider the grade of fuel. While the Expedition EL’s engine is designed to run on regular unleaded fuel, some owners report slightly improved performance and fuel economy when using premium fuel. Experiment with different fuel grades to see if you notice a difference, but keep in mind that the cost of premium fuel may offset any potential gains.