19 MPG combined is the number every 2023 Ford Expedition 2WD 3.5L owner must come to terms with. To be clear, nobody chooses a full-size, body-on-frame SUV like the Expedition for its fuel sipping prowess. The Expedition is bought by those who need maximum passenger and cargo volume, serious towing capability, and the reliable ruggedness expected of a truck-based platform. For these buyers, 19 MPG is simply the price of admission to a unique level of utility.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Ford Expedition 2WD with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and ten-speed automatic transmission achieves 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The EcoBoost engine, despite its displacement, is turbocharged, delivering a broad torque curve that helps get this large SUV moving with surprising eagerness. Highway driving, with its consistent speeds and minimal stop-and-go, allows the ten-speed transmission to settle into its higher gears, contributing to the 23 MPG rating. Expect the city figure to drop further if your typical route involves heavy congestion and frequent idling, since the heavy curb weight of an Expedition will always extract a fuel penalty when accelerating from a standstill.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates that the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Ford Expedition 2WD 3.5L is approximately $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the EPA’s combined MPG rating, and assuming national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary. If you drive significantly more than 15,000 miles annually or if fuel prices in your region are above the national average, you can expect to spend more. Driving fewer miles or benefiting from lower fuel prices will reduce your yearly expense. This also does not take into account premium vs regular fuel; always check your owner’s manual for specific fuel requirements.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly depending on driving habits, road conditions, and even weather. Aggressive acceleration, frequent heavy braking, and extended idling will all negatively impact efficiency. Driving in hilly or mountainous terrain will likely result in lower MPG figures compared to flat, open highways. Owners who maintain a moderate driving style, anticipate traffic flow, and keep their tires properly inflated are more likely to achieve numbers closer to the EPA estimates, or perhaps even slightly exceed them, especially on longer highway journeys. It’s important to manage expectations; the Expeditions’ substantial size and weight will demand fuel, no matter how carefully it’s driven. Reviewing others real-world data for EXPEDITION MPG across all years can help you understand the factors affecting fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2023 Ford Expedition’s fuel economy sits roughly in the middle of its full-size SUV competitors. A Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD with the 5.3L V8 is rated at 15 MPG city and 20 MPG highway, giving it a combined rating of 17 MPG, while the Nissan Armada comes in at 14 MPG city, 19 MPG highway for a combined 16 MPG. These numbers are lower than the Expedition’s 19 MPG combined. Certain trims and configurations, even within the Expedition range, can affect fuel usage. For example, the 4×4 models will inevitably have lower efficiency numbers due to added weight and drivetrain resistance. Buyers considering the Expedition also often look at body-on-frame pickup trucks such as the Ford F-150, but recognize that even the F-150 offers a different passenger and cargo arrangement than a large SUV. For more information, you can review all Ford fuel economy data to consider other Ford models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking are crucial for maximizing fuel economy in any vehicle, especially one as large as the Expedition. Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and try to anticipate traffic flow to minimize the need for sudden stops. The EcoBoost engine responds well to a light touch when accelerating from a standstill.

Highway driving offers the best opportunity to improve fuel economy. Maintain a consistent speed and use cruise control whenever possible on long, level stretches of road. Avoid aggressive lane changes and unnecessary acceleration, which will consume more fuel. Let the transmission do its job.

Tire pressure plays an important role in fuel efficiency. Check your tires regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which wastes fuel. Using the correct tire pressures will also optimize tire wear and safety.

Remove any unnecessary cargo from the vehicle. Extra weight requires more energy to accelerate and maintain speed, which translates to lower fuel economy. Clean out the trunk or cargo area and remove any items that are not essential for your daily driving needs.

Consider using the Expedition’s selectable drive modes, if equipped. Some models offer an “Eco” mode that optimizes engine and transmission settings for improved fuel efficiency. This mode may slightly reduce performance, but it can make a noticeable difference in MPG, especially during city driving.