2023 Ford Expedition MAX Review

The Expedition MAX is the largest passenger vehicle offered by Ford, which means that it is supposed to offer the very best in terms of power, hauling, luxury, and other capabilities. In this review, we put the 2023 Expedition MAX to the test and take a look at its quirks and features.

Features

The Ford Expedition Max is currently in its 4th generation which was refreshed last year. You get to choose from 5 variants and a single engine that is tuned to produce more power as you move up the trims. It differs from the standard Expedition as it has a longer wheelbase. This year’s model sees some changes in terms of the exterior paint color lineup.

Powertrain and Numbers

The Ford Expedition MAX 2023 features a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine that is good for 380 hp and 470 lb-ft. Move up the trims and you can get a version that’s tuned to produce 400 hp and 480 lb-ft, or even better — up to 440 hp and 510 lb-ft.

A 10-speed automatic gearbox is standard – it sends power to a rear- or 4-wheel drive system. The result is that this behemoth is able to sprint from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.7 seconds. This makes it the quickest in the class.

It is also pretty good at doing what it’s supposed to; it has a great towing capacity. Equip the 2023 Expedition MAX right, and it will pull up to 9000 lbs. Again, it tops the class in this regard, while the shorter 2023 Expedition can tow 300 lbs heavier.

The 2023 Ford Expedition MAX consumes a reasonable amount of fuel for its size. According to the EPA, it is good for 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway with RWD. Get AWD and these numbers drop only slightly to 16 mpg city; 22 mpg highway.

Interior and Technology

On the inside, the 2023 Ford Expedition MAX feels like a massive luxury hotel room thanks to its roominess and upscale material choices. It can seat up to 8 occupants with absolute comfort thanks to its lengthy wheelbase.

As you’d expect, the Expedition MAX has a massive trunk whose space can be increased even further when you fold down all the rear seats completely flat. This model also has the most cubby storage in the class.

The following looks at the 2023 Expedition MAX trim levels:

2023 Expedition XL MAX

The entry-level Expedition MAX comes equipped with tri-zone climate control, push-button ignition, keyless entry, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, and an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat.

The infotainment system is centered around a 12-inch touchscreen, 6 speakers, and multiple powerpoints and USB ports for added connectivity. There’s connectivity for Android and Apple devices offered here as well.

For safety, you get forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning (w/lane-keeping assist), blind-spot monitoring (w/rear cross-traffic alerts), a rearview camera, and rear parking sensors.

2023 Expedition XLT MAX

The Ford Expedition XLT MAX 2023 gets you some add-ons like a powered 3rd row of seats, connected navigation, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and a power liftgate. It also unlocks several interesting optional extras.

2023 Expedition Limited MAX

The Expedition Limited MAX 2023 ups the game in luxury, starting with the leather-trimmed seats and captain chairs in the back. The first- and second-row seats are heated, with the former also being ventilated.

Remote start, ambient lighting, a wireless charging pad, and a powered moonroof are now available, and so is a heated steering wheel. The driver and front passenger get 10- and 8-way power-adjustable seats.

The infotainment is upgraded thanks to a premium 12-speaker stereo tuned by Bangs & Olufsen. You also get some more outlets for connectivity. For added safety, you get front parking sensors and adaptive cruise control.

2023 Expedition King Ranch MAX

The King Ranch MAX is even higher-end as it features a custom interior made from the finest materials, leather seats, a 22-speaker stereo by B&O, a 15.5-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 360-degree camera, and more.

2023 Expedition Platinum MAX

The Platinum trim offers the very best of the 2023 Expedition MAX. It gets you most of the aforementioned features, plus massaging seats, several parking assists, etc.

2023 Expedition XL MAX

 

2023 Expedition XLT MAX

 

2023 Expedition King Ranch MAX

 

Exterior and Driving

The 2023 Ford Expedition MAX is handsome and has a larger-than-life aura to it. There are several differences in the trim levels based on their front grilles, mirrors, wheel designs, and bumpers. The major difference between the Max and the standard Expedition is that it’s 11.9 inches longer in length.

The following are the colors available on the 2023 Expedition MAX:

Do make sure that your desired trim has your favorite color on it though.

The Expedition MAX’s acceleration has baffled many of its testers as it is a large vehicle. The same goes for its smooth and controlled handling abilities. It is also a comfortable and noiseless brute, so it’s also great for cruising.

Reliability and Warranty

The Ford Expedition MAX 2023 hasn’t been rated by JD Power for reliability yet. So, we can rely on last year’s ratings which were quite decent. This year’s model does get the stamp of approval from Consumer Reports.

The reviews from its buyers are also positive and there have been no recalls. There’s a limited warranty which covers 3 years/36k miles and a powertrain warranty which is good for 5 years/60k miles.

Verdict

As you can tell, the 2023 Ford Expedition MAX ticks all the boxes of what a consumer could want in a full-size SUV. From high power, acceleration, and superb trailering abilities, to reliability, and a large and luxurious cabin full of standard amenities – you get it all.

To get the 2023 Ford Expedition and Expedition MAX in Woods Cross, North Salt Lake UT, Centerville UT, and Bountiful UT, check out Performance Ford Bountiful here.