Looking for a powerful and comfortable SUV? Our in-depth Ford Expedition vs GMC Yukon comparison covers engine performance, interior space, safety features, and pricing to help you choose the best fit.
Engine and Performance
When it comes to the heart of the matter – the engine and performance – both the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon have their strengths and weaknesses. As you’re about to discover, these two behemoths of the road have distinct approaches to power, transmission, and fuel efficiency.
Horsepower and Torque Comparison
The base model Ford Expedition comes equipped with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. In contrast, the GMC Yukon’s base model features a 5.3-liter V8 engine, cranking out 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. While the Yukon’s V8 engine may seem more potent on paper, the Expedition’s EcoBoost technology provides more torque, making it feel more responsive and agile on the road. Imagine the Expedition’s engine as a sprinter, quickly accelerating from 0 to 60, while the Yukon’s engine is more like a marathon runner, providing consistent power over a longer distance.
Transmission and Drive Type Options
The Ford Expedition offers a 10-speed automatic transmission, designed to optimize power delivery and fuel efficiency. The GMC Yukon, on the other hand, comes with a 6-speed automatic transmission. While the Yukon’s transmission is smooth and refined, the Expedition’s 10-speed transmission provides more nuanced control over gear shifts, making it feel more connected to the road. When it comes to drive type options, both vehicles offer rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations, catering to different driving preferences and terrain demands.
Fuel Economy Differences
Fuel economy is where the Ford Expedition takes a noticeable lead. With an estimated 17 mpg city, 23 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined, the Expedition’s EcoBoost engine sips fuel more efficiently than the Yukon’s V8 engine, which achieves 14 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 17 mpg combined. For those who prioritize fuel efficiency, the Expedition is the clear winner. However, if you’re willing to sacrifice some fuel economy for raw power, the Yukon’s V8 engine might be the better choice.
Interior and Comfort
When it comes to interior and comfort, both the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon aim to provide a pleasant and spacious environment for passengers. But how do they stack up against each other? Let’s take a closer look.
Seating Capacity and Legroom
One of the most critical aspects of any vehicle is seating capacity and legroom. After all, you want to make sure everyone can fit comfortably and have enough space to stretch out. The Ford Expedition offers seating for up to eight passengers, with the optional second-row bucket seats reducing the capacity to seven. The GMC Yukon, on the other hand, can accommodate up to nine passengers, depending on the configuration.
In terms of legroom, the Expedition offers 43.9 inches in the front, 39.1 inches in the second row, and 32.2 inches in the third row. The Yukon provides 42.8 inches in the front, 39 inches in the second row, and 24.8 inches in the third row. While the Expedition offers more legroom in the third row, the Yukon provides slightly more in the first two rows.
Cargo Space and Storage Options
Cargo space and storage options are essential for families, travelers, and anyone who needs to transport gear or equipment. The Ford Expedition offers a maximum cargo capacity of 104.6 cubic feet, with 57.5 cubic feet behind the second row and 20.5 cubic feet behind the third row. The GMC Yukon provides a maximum cargo capacity of 94.7 cubic feet, with 51.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 15.3 cubic feet behind the third row.
Both vehicles offer innovative storage solutions, such as the Expedition’s optional second-row tip-and-slide seats and the Yukon’s fold-flat third-row seats. However, the Expedition’s cargo capacity is significantly larger, making it a better option for those who need to haul more gear.
Infotainment Systems and Tech Features
In today’s connected world, infotainment systems and tech features are more important than ever. Both the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon offer advanced infotainment systems with touchscreen displays, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration. The Expedition’s SYNC 3 system boasts an 8-inch touchscreen, while the Yukon’s GMC Infotainment System features an 8-inch diagonal touchscreen.
The Expedition offers more available features, such as a 12-speaker B&O Sound System, a 360-degree camera system, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Yukon, on the other hand, offers a premium 14-speaker Bose sound system and a 120-volt power outlet. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Do you prioritize premium sound or advanced safety features?
Safety Features and Ratings
When it comes to safety, both the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon are designed to provide a secure environment for drivers and passengers. But how do they compare in terms of crash test ratings, advanced safety features, and driver assistance technologies?
Crash Test Ratings and Scores
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) are two of the most reputable organizations that conduct rigorous testing to evaluate a vehicle’s safety . In the NHTSA’s 5-star rating system, the 2022 Ford Expedition received an overall rating of 5 stars, with 5 stars in the frontal crash test and 4 stars in the rollover test. The 2022 GMC Yukon also received an overall rating of 5 stars, with 5 stars in the frontal crash test and 4 stars in the rollover test.
In the IIHS’s rating system, both vehicles received Top Safety Pick+ awards, the highest honor given by the organization. However, the Yukon’s “good” rating in the small overlap front test is slightly higher than the Expedition’s “marginal” rating.
Advanced Safety Features Comparison
Both the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon offer a range of advanced safety features to help prevent accidents or minimize damage in the event of a collision. These features include:
- Forward Collision Warning and Automatic Emergency Braking
- Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Adaptive Cruise Control
However, the Yukon’s higher trims (AT4 and Denali) offer additional features, such as a 360-degree camera system and an Enhanced Automatic Emergency Braking system that can detect pedestrians and bicyclists.
Driver Assistance Technologies
Driver assistance technologies are designed to reduce driver fatigue and stress, making long road trips more enjoyable and safer. Both the Expedition and Yukon offer:
- Lane Centering Technology to keep the vehicle centered in its lane
- Traffic Sign Recognition to alert drivers of speed limits and other important signs
- Adaptive Headlights to improve visibility in low-light conditions
The Yukon’s higher trims also offer a unique feature called “HD Surround Vision,” which provides a 360-degree view of the vehicle’s surroundings to help with parking and low-speed maneuvering.
Overall, while both vehicles have impressive safety credentials, the GMC Yukon’s higher trims offer more advanced safety features and driver assistance technologies, making it a better choice for those who prioritize safety above all else.
Exterior Design and Capabilities
When it comes to size, the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon are two of the largest SUVs on the market. But how do they stack up against each other in terms of exterior design and capabilities?
Size and Dimension Differences
One of the most noticeable differences between the Expedition and Yukon is their size. The Expedition measures 203.9 inches in length, 83.6 inches in width, and 76.6 inches in height, making it slightly longer and wider than the Yukon, which comes in at 203.9 inches in length, 80.5 inches in width, and 74.4 inches in height. However, the Yukon has a slightly longer wheelbase than the Expedition, which can affect its stability and handling.
But what does this mean for you, the driver? Well, a longer wheelbase can provide a smoother ride, especially on rough terrain. On the other hand, a shorter wheelbase can make an SUV more agile and easier to maneuver in tight spaces. So, it really depends on your personal preferences and driving habits.
Towing Capacity and Payload
When it comes to towing and hauling, both the Expedition and Yukon are more than capable. The Expedition has a maximum towing capacity of up to 9,300 pounds, while the Yukon can tow up to 8,400 pounds. However, the Expedition has a slightly higher maximum payload capacity, coming in at 1,920 pounds compared to the Yukon’s 1,760 pounds.
But what does this mean in real-world terms? Well, if you plan on towing a large boat or trailer, the Expedition might be the better choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking to haul heavy loads, such as equipment or materials, the Yukon might be the way to go.
Off-Road and Handling Capabilities
Both the Expedition and Yukon are designed to handle rough terrain, but they have some key differences when it comes to off-road capabilities. The Expedition has a higher ground clearance, coming in at 9.8 inches compared to the Yukon’s 8.1 inches. This can make a big difference when driving on rocky or uneven terrain.
However, the Yukon has a more advanced all-wheel-drive system, which can send power to all four wheels simultaneously. This can provide better traction and stability in slippery or uneven conditions. Additionally, the Yukon has a more advanced hill descent control system, which can help you navigate steep inclines with confidence.
So, which one is better off-road? Well, it depends on your specific needs and driving habits. If you plan on driving on rough terrain frequently, the Expedition might be the better choice. But if you need a vehicle that can handle slippery or uneven conditions, the Yukon might be the way to go.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The age-old question: what do you get for your money? When it comes to the Ford Expedition and GMC Yukon, the answer lies in their respective trim levels and pricing structures. Let’s dive in and explore the various options available to you.
Base Model Features and Prices
The base models of both vehicles are designed to provide a solid foundation for your SUV needs. The Ford Expedition XL starts at around $52,000, while the GMC Yukon SLE begins at approximately $51,000. At this price point, you can expect a decent amount of standard features, including:
- Cloth seats
- Tri-zone electronic automatic temperature control
- Rearview camera
- 18-inch aluminum wheels
- Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system or GMC’s Infotainment System with an 8-inch diagonal color touchscreen
While these base models won’t blow you away with luxury features, they do provide a comfortable and capable ride.
Higher Trim Levels and Upgrades
As you move up the trim level ladder, you’ll find more premium features and upgrades. The Ford Expedition XLT starts at around $63,000, while the GMC Yukon SLT begins at approximately $65,000. These mid-level trims add features like:
- Leather-trimmed seats
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Dual-panel moonroof
- 20-inch aluminum wheels
- Advanced safety features like blind-spot monitoring and lane departure warning
But wait, there’s more! The top-tier trims, the Ford Expedition Platinum and GMC Yukon Denali, start at around $73,000 and $72,000, respectively. These luxury trims bring:
- Premium leather-trimmed seats with unique stitching
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go and lane centering
- Enhanced active park assist
- 22-inch aluminum wheels
- Panoramic sunroof
Value for Money Comparison
So, which trim level and pricing structure offers the most value for your hard-earned cash? It ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and priorities. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with a solid feature set, the base models might be the way to go. However, if you’re willing to splurge for premium features and luxury touches, the higher trim levels are worth considering.
One thing to keep in mind is that the GMC Yukon tends to offer more standard features at lower trim levels, while the Ford Expedition reserve some of its best features for the higher trims. Ultimately, it’s essential to weigh your needs and budget to determine which trim level and pricing structure offers the best value for you.