The New Ford Explorer vs the New Ford Expedition
The New Ford Explorer vs the New Ford Expedition
Families shopping for a three-row SUV at Hassett Ford have two very different options: the new Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition. Both offer flexible seating, strong technology, and available four-wheel-drive capability, but they differ in size and intended use. The Explorer offers more agile handling thanks to its smaller size, and the larger Expedition adds space in the seating and cargo areas.
The 2026 Ford Explorer vs the 2026 Ford Expedition
| 2026 Ford Explorer | 2026 Ford Expedition | |
|---|---|---|
| Seating Capacity | 6 | 7 |
| Cargo Space | 16.3 cu. ft. | - |
| Drivetrain | All wheel drive | Four wheel drive |
| City/Hwy/Combined MPG | 20 / 27 / 23 MPG | 15 / 22 / 18 MPG |
| Engine power | 300 hp @ 5,500 rpm | 440 hp |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed shiftable automatic |
Ford Explorer vs. Ford Expedition Overview
Think of the Ford Explorer as the more practical everyday family SUV. Its midsize footprint makes it easier to park, commute, and maneuver through busy areas around Wantagh, NY, while still giving you three rows of seating.
The Ford Expedition moves into full-size SUV territory. Its larger body creates more passenger space, more room for cargo, and much greater towing capacity. Drivers who need room for a large family, sports gear, luggage, or a trailer will find more capability here.
For maximum space, the Ford Expedition MAX adds even more length and cargo room.
Passenger Seating Comparison
The Ford Explorer accommodates six or seven people, depending on the seating configuration. Second-row captain's chairs make it easier to access the third row, while a bench seat adds flexibility and passenger capacity.
The Ford Expedition seats seven or eight. That extra seat can matter for larger households or families that regularly bring friends, grandparents, or teammates along. For drivers around Babylon, NY, who regularly fill all three rows, the Ford Expedition offers the more spacious setup.
Cargo Space & Interior Dimensions
With every rear seat folded, the Ford Explorer provides up to 85.8 cubic feet of cargo space. It also offers 46 cubic feet behind the second row and 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row.
The Ford Expedition expands those figures considerably, with up to 108.5 cubic feet behind the first row and as much as 69.9 cubic feet behind the second row. The Ford Expedition MAX stretches total cargo capacity to approximately 123 cubic feet.
Overall length also separates them. The Ford Explorer measures about 198.7 inches long, while the standard Ford Expedition is roughly 209.9 inches. The Ford Expedition MAX extends beyond 221 inches.
That makes the Explorer easier to fit into tighter parking spaces, while the Expedition gives families more room for luggage, strollers, sports equipment, and other bulky items.
Engine Performance & Capability
A 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder with 300 horsepower gives the Ford Explorer plenty of output for commuting, highway driving, and family travel. An available 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 raises output to 385 horsepower on select configurations. Maximum towing capacity is 5,000 pounds with the right equipment.
The Ford Expedition starts with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 producing 400 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. An available high-output version increases performance to 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque.
Towing is where the Expedition clearly separates itself. Properly equipped models can tow up to 9,600 pounds, making it the stronger choice for hauling larger boats, campers, or trailers around Long Island.
Available Technology & Safety Features
Inside the Ford Explorer, drivers can access a 13.2-inch center touchscreen, Ford Digital Experience, smartphone connectivity, and available BlueCruise hands-free highway driving. Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assistance technologies add features designed to help with lane awareness, braking, and surrounding traffic.
The Ford Expedition adds a more expansive digital environment with a 24-inch panoramic display paired with a 13.2-inch center screen. Available BlueCruise, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Centering, and Pre-Collision Assist can make longer drives through Nassau County easier.
Which Ford SUV Is Right for Your Family?
Daily usability favors the Ford Explorer. Its smaller footprint, available all-wheel drive (AWD), three-row seating, and strong cargo capacity make it a smart fit for commuting, school runs, errands, and family road trips.
Families who routinely carry more people or equipment should take a closer look at the Ford Expedition. Its eight-passenger capability, larger cargo area, stronger engines, and significantly higher towing capacity make it better suited to demanding travel and recreational use.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Ford Expedition is the larger SUV. It is longer, roomier, and offers substantially more cargo capacity. The Ford Expedition MAX provides even more interior space.
The Ford Explorer seats up to seven, while the Ford Expedition can accommodate up to eight.
The Ford Explorer has a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Ford Expedition can tow up to 9,600 pounds when properly configured.
Yes. The Ford Explorer offers Intelligent four-wheel drive (4WD), while the Ford Expedition offers 4x4 capability.
The Ford Explorer is shorter and easier to maneuver, giving it an advantage for parking and everyday driving around Freeport, NY.
Shop Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition SUVs Today at Hassett Ford
Visit Hassett Ford to shop new Ford SUVs and compare Ford Explorer and Ford Expedition models side by side. Schedule a test drive to help you decide which size, seating layout, and capability level work best for your family.
You can also value your trade, review financing and leasing options, or complete a finance application online. Browse our new and used inventory to find the Ford SUV that fits your needs on Long Island.
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Hassett Ford
3530 Sunrise Hwy.
Wantagh, NY 11793
- New Ford Sales: (516) 271-3428
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