Ford is putting the utility back in the “sports utility vehicle” this fall. The 2018 Expedition lineup will include the popular FX4 off-road package that’s been a big seller for the F-150 pickup.

When compared to other three-row all-terrain SUVs like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Expedition is at least 40 cm longer. The FX4 package will be perfect for big families or groups who want to go a little farther on their off-road adventures.

Although the Ford Expedition FX4 edition is a new intro in America and the Great White North, it’s been a big seller in the Middle East for years. It’s one of the favourite luxury vehicles for families and executives looking for a large, luxurious ride that can handle Arabian sand dunes.

The FX4 package will include bigger off-road tires with new and exclusive 18-inch wheels, some of the best shocks available on the market, a new 4×4 system with seven dynamic driving modes, a limited-slip differential and a stronger underbody to protect the suspension and engine systems from terrain obstacles.

The heavy-duty FX4 additions won’t affect performance or fuel economy too dramatically. And that’s because the 2018 Ford Expedition will debut a new, lighter aluminum body, which should offset the weight of the FX4’s larger tires, shocks and underbody components.

The FX4 package will also integrate seamlessly with the Expedition’s powerful and efficient 3.5L EcoBoost V-6. It’s projected to make 350 horsepower and an impressive 470 lb-ft of torque to get you over nearly any obstacle in your path. Ford has yet to announce fuel ratings for the model.

The 2018 Ford Expedition will mate the 3.5L V6 with a 10-speed automatic transmission borrowed from the 2017 F-150. And those who measure SUV capabilities in tow numbers will be pleased to know that the 2018 Expedition’s tow capacity is up 45 kg. from the 2017 model, for a total of over 4200 kg. in hauling power.

According to Ford, other standard features in the FX4 off-road package will include:

• Heavy-duty rubber floor liners.
• FX4 badging.
• Chrome running boards.
• Off-road shocks that are specifically tuned to be tighter and stiffer to create maximum wheel traction with the ground during aggressive driving in all terrains.
• An electronic limited-slip rear differential that continuously and automatically adjusts power between the rear left and right wheels in low traction surfaces like ice or deep sand.
• The FX4 package will add at least seven skid plates and debris shields to keep sand and dirt from clogging the transmission cooler and radiator.
• All-terrain tires designed to balance out the stiff shocks by damping the ride.

When equipped with the FX4 package, the 2018 Ford Expedition will deliver everything from off-road chops, the latest technology and enough interior luxury to keep all passengers comfortable and content. If you’d like to take one for a test drive when it arrives in our showrooms this fall, sign up for arrival updates to be one of the first to try one out.