The 2019 Ford Expedition MAX 4WD with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 gets 18 MPG combined. No one buys this extended-length, four-wheel-drive vehicle expecting Prius-like fuel economy. They buy it because they need to haul a boat, tow a camper, transport a large family and all their gear across state lines, and do it all in comfort. Fuel economy is a consideration, but it’s lower down the priority list than capability and space.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Expedition MAX 4WD gets 16 MPG in the city and 21 MPG on the highway. This difference reflects how the EcoBoost engine performs. In stop-and-go traffic, the Expedition’s weight, close to three tons, demands more fuel to overcome inertia. On the open road, however, the engine’s turbochargers and 10-speed automatic transmission allow it to cruise at lower RPMs, improving efficiency. Achieving that 21 MPG highway figure requires a gentle foot and avoiding excessive speed, but it’s attainable.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Ford Expedition MAX 4WD at $2,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of city and highway driving, and assuming national average fuel prices. Real-world costs will vary based on individual driving habits and where you live. Drivers who frequently tow or drive aggressively will see higher fuel bills, while those who prioritize fuel efficiency might spend less. This also does not account for fluctuations in gas prices.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates are a useful benchmark, but owner experiences suggest that real-world MPG figures are often lower, particularly in the city. Hauling kids to sports practice, sitting in rush-hour traffic, and short trips where the engine never fully warms up can all lower fuel economy. Expect to see figures closer to 14-15 MPG in mixed city driving. Highway driving in ideal conditions (flat terrain, moderate speeds, minimal wind) can approach or even exceed the EPA estimate of 21 MPG. The most common complaint regarding fuel economy is the drop-off experienced while towing. Expect a significant decrease in MPG when hauling a trailer. Buyers accept this in exchange for this vehicle’s exceptional versatility.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2019 Expedition MAX 4WD holds its own, but doesn’t lead the pack. For example, the Chevy Suburban 4WD with the 5.3L V8 offers a similar EPA-estimated combined MPG of 17. However, that changes significantly with the 6.2L V8 in the Suburban High Country trim, which drops to 16 MPG combined. The Nissan Armada 4WD, with its naturally aspirated 5.6L V8, achieves only 14 MPG combined, making the Ford a potentially more attractive option for those prioritizing fuel efficiency. When you view EXPEDITION MPG across all years, you see a relatively stable range, reflecting Ford’s ongoing efforts to balance fuel economy with capability. These comparisons matter because buyers in this segment are often cross-shopping multiple full-size SUVs, weighing the pros and cons of each.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the Expedition MAX’s size and weight, gentle acceleration and braking are important to maximizing fuel economy. Avoid aggressive starts and anticipate traffic flow to minimize hard braking. Every sudden movement translates directly into wasted fuel, especially when accelerating the vehicle’s mass from a standstill. Keep your cargo load as light as possible. Extra weight drastically reduces fuel economy, especially in city driving. Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle, and avoid carrying heavy loads unless absolutely necessary.

Proper tire inflation is essential for optimal fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and keep them inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which requires the engine to work harder, burning more fuel. Using cruise control on the highway can help maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel efficiency. This is particularly useful on long trips where variations in speed are common. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the transmission may downshift frequently, negating the benefits.

Consider using the vehicle’s different drive modes. The standard “Normal” mode is suitable for most driving conditions, and the “Eco” mode can help improve fuel economy by adjusting throttle response and transmission shift points. Performance will be sluggish in this mode, so it should only be activated in low-demand driving situations. Limiting idling time is also important. If you’re stopping for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle, contributing to lower overall MPG and a higher fuel bill.

Lastly, keep up with routine maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, so follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements. A clean air filter ensures proper airflow to the engine, and fresh spark plugs ensure optimal combustion, both contributing to improved fuel economy. And remember to view all Ford fuel economy data to compare this model with others in the product range.