Starting off, the design is frankly surprising. Since it rides on the F-150's platform, you'd think it would be stylized much more like a truck. Well, Ford decided to make it fit with their SUV lineup by giving it SUV styling. Up front you get headlights that are well integrated with the grille, and the Explorer's LED fog light housing. The front end overall says "I'm a truck but I don't show it." The only gripe I have is the lower chin spoiler that helps with aerodynamics. It looks tacky and makes the truck look like it's more on-road worthy. At least the optional FX4 Off-Road Package gets rid of that "thing".

The biggest change in the redesign of the Expedition is the side profile. Its length grows four inches for the regular wheelbase, and just 1.1 for the MAX version (used to be called EL), with most of it going to the third row leg room. There's no denying that this truck is a behemoth, even in the normal wheelbase guise. The C-pillar is thick and brings up a wrap-around rear window, giving the Expedition an impression that this SUV can truly handle seven full-sized adults.

The rear of the Expedition is all new, and no body part is shared with the previous generation Expedition. The back gets the same squared-off dimensions as the Expedition has always worn, but the tail lights surprisingly don't take much from the F-150 with the exception of the extended "kink" near the top of the housing. The exhaust pipe is also semi-hidden, so at least Ford didn't try to make fake tips. There is a tow hitch cover is on all models, and its worlds easier to remove compared to the frustrating GMC Yukon hitch cover. A power liftgate doesn't come standard on base Expeditions, but add the 801A package and you get it. In addition, a foot activated liftgate is also an option if you have the power liftgate.