20 MPG combined might not sound impressive, but for a full-size, truck-based SUV like the 2018 Ford Expedition 2WD with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6, it’s a respectable figure. This isn’t a compact crossover aimed at squeezing every last mile from a gallon. The Expedition is designed to haul families, tow trailers, and tackle demanding workloads, and fuel economy is a secondary consideration for its core audience.

City and highway performance

The 2018 Ford Expedition 2WD, equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and a 10-speed automatic transmission, achieves an EPA-estimated 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine working harder to accelerate frequently, especially in stop-and-go traffic. The highway number highlights the benefits of the Expedition’s aerodynamic shape and the transmission’s ability to keep the engine in its most efficient range at cruising speeds. Owners who primarily drive in urban environments should expect to see figures closer to the 17 MPG mark, while those who spend more time on highways will likely experience performance closer to or even slightly exceeding the 24 MPG estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Ford Expedition 2WD at $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and assumes national average fuel prices. While this is a helpful benchmark for comparison, individual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel used.

Heavier acceleration, frequent towing, and consistent use of premium fuel (though not required) can all impact the total amount spent on fuel each year. Drivers covering significantly more or less than the 15,000-mile average will naturally see proportional changes in their annual fuel expenditure. The EPA’s estimate provides a standardized measure for comparison but should be considered a baseline rather than a definitive prediction.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Expedition owners report numbers that change depending on their driving style, the terrain, and the use of features like air conditioning. Aggressive driving and constant acceleration will lower fuel economy, while smooth, consistent driving, especially on the highway, can help you achieve or even surpass EPA estimates. Loads also play a significant role.

Regularly towing a trailer or carrying heavy cargo will reduce fuel economy compared to driving with an empty vehicle.

How it compares

In the full-size SUV segment, the 2018 Ford Expedition’s fuel economy is in the middle. The Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD with its 5.3L V8 is rated at 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway, slightly behind the Expedition. The Nissan Armada, with its powerful V8 engine, achieves around 14 MPG city and 19 MPG highway, making it less fuel-efficient. The Toyota Sequoia, another V8-powered competitor, delivers similar fuel economy to the Armada. What sets the Expedition apart is its EcoBoost V6 engine, which offers a balance of power and efficiency. For buyers prioritizing fuel costs, this advantage can be significant. Drivers can explore all Ford fuel economy data to get a better handle on the brand’s fuel efficiency across their entire lineup. Consumers who want to measure EXPEDITION MPG across all years can see how the model’s efficiency has changed.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Expedition is a large vehicle, and rapid acceleration puts a strain on the engine, consuming more fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration will improve your MPG.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and burns more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level found on the door jamb sticker.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle, and it can quickly add up, especially in city driving.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, reducing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This can improve fuel economy, particularly on long highway trips. Keep in mind that cruise control may be less efficient on hilly terrain.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying unnecessary items in your vehicle adds weight which directly impacts fuel economy. Remove anything you don’t need, especially heavy objects, such as sporting equipment or tools that are not in regular use.