THE 2015 Ford Expedition earned a five-star Overall Vehicle Score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the US government's highest possible overall rating. The New Car Assessment Program is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's evaluation program for new automobile designs. It was established to test for performance against safety threats. It includes tests for front and side impacts. “The 2015 Expedition now has driver-assist technology features that are new to the nameplate,” said Steve Kenner, director, Ford Global Automotive Safety Office. “These technology upgrades make Expedition the full-size utility vehicle for customers who want capability, style and modern conveniences.” Safety and driver-assist features Expedition has a myriad of standard safety features aimed at protecting drivers and occupants, as well as driver-assist features that are new to the vehicle. Standard safety features include AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control™, Safety Canopy side-curtain airbags, SOS Post-Crash Alert System, tire pressure monitoring system and traction control. The 2015 model debuts driver-assist technologies to the Expedition nameplate, like available radar-based Blind Spot Information System with cross-traffic alert. Using sensor-based radar technology, BLIS® can help detect when a vehicle is in a driver's blind spot and flashes a warning light in the appropriate sideview mirror. Cross-traffic alert uses radar to help detect vehicles approaching from the side when a driver is slowly backing out of a parking spot or driveway. When a vehicle is detected, an audible warning sounds and a visual cue will be issued in the message center. Other new technologies include a standard rearview camera, keyless entry with push-button start, and front and rear parking sensors. Stylish, powerful, fuel-efficient The 2015 Expedition is the most powerful and fuel-efficient Expedition yet, offering customers a full-size utility vehicle with a stylish design and fresh interiors across a diverse lineup that includes a new Platinum trim level. The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, the only engine available for Expedition in North America, generates 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque, and with an EPA-estimated rating of 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway with two-wheel-drive. Actual mileage will vary. Expedition also offers best-in-class maximum cargo space for the extended-length version, and available best-in-class towing of up to 9,200 pounds when properly equipped. It all adds up to a truly useful utility vehicle. Ford was the No. 1-selling utility brand in the United States for 2014, making for the fourth straight year the company has maintained its utility vehicle leadership in America. — SG
