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2019 Ford Expedition Trim Levels with Comparisons & Configurations.

2019 Ford Expedition Trim Levels, Configurations & Comparisons: XLT vs Limited & Platinum
Reviewed & fact checked by
James Murdoch

What 2019 Ford Expedition Trim Level Should you Buy? What is the Difference Between Trims?

The 2019 Ford Expedition is sized just right for large families. Up to eight people can hop aboard. A class-leading amount of interior room and plush seats enable everyone to experience a strong sense of comfort. A ton of high-end features are available as well.

With the ability to tow up to 9,300 pounds, this three-row SUV proves to be a great alternative to the best-selling Ford F-150 pickup. Meanwhile, available off-road features enable you to take this big brute off the beaten path. Despite being such a large vehicle, the 2019 Ford Expedition still manages to return decent fuel economy.

You have three trims to choose from: XLT, Limited, and Platinum. Let's find out which trim will work best for you.

Compare the 2019 Ford Expedition XLT vs Limited Trims. What is the difference?

With a starting price in excess of $52,000, the entry-level Expedition XLT will cost you the least amount of money. It comes standard with Bluetooth streaming, a backup camera, and rear parking sensors. A sliding and reclining second-row seat enables passengers to lounge on long trips. If you aren't satisfied with the XLT trim's standard features, some nice options are available.

Simulated leather seats come with the 201A package. The 202A package brings an even greater number of luxurious upgrades. Featuring an 8.0-inch touch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone support, Ford's impressive Sync 3 entertainment is a big highlight. Meanwhile, multiple passengers can link to the Expedition XLT's 4G Wi-Fi hot spot. Blind-spot spot monitoring makes for a safer drive on the highway. Some of the other features found in the 202A package include heated/ventilated front seats, remote, wireless device charging, and a hands-free liftgate.

To obtain more protection on the road, go for the Driver Assistance package. It comes with some very helpful safety technologies. You'll enjoy pedestrian alert, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality.

For the drivers who need to travel in rugged environments, Ford offers the FX4 Off-Road package. It comes equipped with several great features for off-roading, including low-range gearing and underbody protection. An electronic limited-slip differential helps optimize traction on slick road surfaces.

Like every other Expedition, the XLT is put in motion by a turbocharged V6 engine. It pumps out a competitive 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. A 10-speed automatic transmission smooths out the SUV's performance. While rear-wheel drive comes standard, a capable 4WD system can be added as an option.

As expected, the Limited trim is a bit more luxurious than the base XLT model. It comes standard with retractable running boards for easier entry and exit. This trim also receives heated second-row seats and a 12-speaker B & O premium sound system.

You can also get the highly popular Driver Assistance package as an option. Aside from the previously mentioned safety technologies, it also includes navigation and a sunroof. The Limited trim's 302A package is also worth some consideration. It decks the Expedition out with 22-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights. Meanwhile an automated parking system and a 360-degree camera make this big SUV easier to maneuver in crowded areas. Adaptive suspension dampers further enhance the Expedition Limited's ride quality.

If you're looking to give the Expedition Limited an especially cool look, check out the all-new Stealth Edition appearance package. It features blacked-out exterior trim and a more attention-grabbing set of 22-inch alloy wheels. There are also some special touches on the inside, including red upholstery stitching.

Compare the 2019 Expedition Limited vs Platinum Trims. What is the difference?

Although stepping up to the range-topping Expedition Platinum is a significant price jump, you will experience superior luxury. It comes standard with the Limited trim's optional 302A package, which is packed with goodies. This is also the only trim in the lineup that boasts massaging front seats and active noise cancellation. Wood accents also help give the cabin a more upscale character.

A couple of stand-alone options are available for the Expedition Platinum. A lot of families will be interested in the rear entertainment system, which adds $2,000 to the SUV's total cost. You can also get the Expedition Limited with second-row leather bucket seats. However, getting rid of the second-row bench seat does lower the SUV's passenger capacity to seven.

While the Expedition Platinum features a similar turbocharged V6, it's specially tuned to develop a staggering 400 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque. The additional muscle will benefit the drivers who do a lot of trailering.

Final Thoughts

Before you go shopping for a new 2019 Ford Expedition, take a close look at what you can affordable. Before even adding any optional equipment, the base Expedition XLT will hit the $50,000 mark.

While the base Expedition XLT is nice for traveling, it does go without certain popular features. Many buyers will want Ford's highly rated Sync 3 infotainment system. You should also think about getting the 4G Wi-Fi hot spot. Virtually everyone in your family will benefit from it at some point. The blind-spot monitoring system with rear cross-traffic alert may prove to be even more beneficial.

To transform the Expedition into a more adventurous SUV, get the FX4 Off-Road package. The various off-road goodies will enable you to charge through tough terrain. From snowy campsites to muddy back roads, you will be able to go virtually anywhere.

With an MSRP of roughly $63,000, the Limited model may not prove to be a better value than the base XLT model. Nonetheless, you will benefit from the sweet-sounding B&O audio system and retractable running boards. Furthermore, Ford offers the Expedition Limited with its all-new Stealth Edition appearance package. It really gives the SUV a look that turn heads.

To get all the bells and whistles, step up to the more expensive Platinum model. Aside from niceties such as massaging front seats, this trim comes equipped with a more potent version of the standard turbocharged V6. You can also get the Platinum trim with a rear entertainment system, which provides dual display screens with ports for plugging in gaming consoles and mobile devices.

2019 Ford Expedition Key Features

For most drivers, the base Expedition XLT's 4.2-inch display screen won't cut it. If you have the money, upgrade to Ford's Sync 3 infotainment system. This interface's tablet-style touch screen and high-resolutions graphics help make it one of today's best. By linking your smartphone through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, you'll be able see your mobile apps directly on the infotainment display.

The Expedition's onboard Wi-Fi system is a another great feature worth getting. It'll make traveling with your family especially enjoyable. Adults and children will be able to enjoy internet streaming throughout the day. Up to 10 electronic devices can use the Wi-Fi hot spot at once. Furthermore, you can connect to the hot spot from up to 50 feet away. This is a big advantage for campers and tailgaters.

According to automotive journalists, the 2019 Ford Expedition offers one of the best sound systems in the full-size SUV segment. It's new B&O audio system by Harman Kardon is typically only found on luxury vehicles. A total of 12 premium speakers and a powerful amplifier create a wonderful music-listening experience. You can crank up the volume without worrying about ruining the sound quality.

The Ford Expedition is best known for its high towing capacity and spacious interior. However, this truck-based SUV is also tough enough for trail use. If you will be routinely traveling in rugged areas, strongly consider getting the FX4 Off-Road package. Important off-road features, such as downhill descent control and low-range gearing, help you to overtake challenging landscapes. Ford's Terrain Management system also helps the Expedition to maintain good traction on a variety of different road surfaces. When tested in the real world, Expedition models equipped with the FX4 Off-Road package performed even better than expected.

The 2019 Ford Expedition's turbocharged V6 engine packs plenty of muscle. While the top-of-the-line Platinum trim is tuned to develop more power, most buyers won't need it. Even the standard engine tune kicks out a fulfilling 375 horsepower. Available as a stand-alone option, Ford's heavy-duty towing package helps the Expedition to excel at moving heavy cargo. You should have no trouble pulling a 9,000-pound load.

Available advanced safety technologies make the 2019 Ford Expedition even better for hauling around families. Although the optional Driver Assistance package may be an extra cost, it's an upgrade that you won't regret. While lane-keep assist helps prevent you from drifting across road markers, automatic emergency braking intervenes when approaching obstacles. By pointing out unseen vehicles, Ford's available Blind Spot Information System will also help you to avoid a dangerous crash. Trailer backup assist is offered as well.

It's hard to hide the 2019 Ford Expedition's large stature. Like virtually every full-size SUV, the Expedition will have trouble fitting into small spaces. Nevertheless, Ford does offer some helpful parking aids. You will find the 360-degree camera to be especially helpful. This multi-camera system dramatically improves outward visibility. Along with the 302A package comes parallel park assist, which greatly helps with downtown parking.

Used 2019 Ford Expedition:
Previous Ford Expedition Trim Configurations:

Compare the 2018 Ford Expedition Trim Levels