Ford's largest SUV will receive significant price cuts later this year in order to better compete. According to a dealer order guide, the 2021 Expedition will get a new XL base model and offer lower prices on most other styles. Based on our analysis, the moves will help slash the difference in price with the all-new Chevy Tahoe.
At the entry-level, the Expedition XL will no longer be limited just to fleet buyers. With an MSRP of $50,720 including destination, it will be $3,785 more affordable than the cheapest 2020 Expedition ($54,505 for the XLT). According to Ford spokesperson Sam Schembari, the decision was made with buyers in mind.
"We listen to the customer to determine not only feedback on features but what other factors would keep them coming back. Choice & affordability are consistent elements particularly these days," Schembari stated in an email to CarsDirect. Interestingly, a new STX Package could make the XL a more compelling choice.
For an extra $970, the STX ($51,690) will only be offered in the XL and will come with the same 375-hp 3.5L EcoBoost V6 and 10-speed automatic as other styles. In terms of looks, it'll come with a five-bar chrome/magnetic gray grille, special STX badging, and 18-inch wheels cast-aluminum wheels painted in metallic gray.
Inside, the STX will offer SYNC 3 and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It'll also come with a tri-zone automatic climate control system. Like other Expeditions, Ford Co-Pilot360 will be standard, offering a solid range of driver assistance technology.
Well-equipped Expeditions will see some major price cuts, too. While the Expedition XLT will continue to start at $54,505, every other style will benefit from lower prices. The Limited trim is set to benefit from the largest decrease of $2,870 in the case of the 4x4 Expedition Max ($68,320 vs. $71,190 previously).
The changes appear to be largely consistent with recent price cuts on the 2021 Explorer, and will slash the difference in starting price between the Expedition and 2021 Chevy Tahoe ($50,295) from $4,210 to just $425. As a result, cross-shoppers may find the Expedition a much better match when it comes to price.
When it was introduced for 2018, the current Expedition was priced up to $8,650 higher than the outgoing generation. Now, it appears Ford is trying to help ensure the vehicle doesn't alienate shoppers in light of the latest competition. Whether or not the strategy will prove to be successful remains to be seen.
Note: 2020 Expedition pictured
Chevrolet Tahoe vs. Ford Expedition
Best SUVs You Can Buy In 2022
2018 Ford Expedition Priced From $52,890, Will Range To Nearly $80k
2021 GMC Yukon Priced From $51,995, $100 More Than Prior Year
2018 Ford Expedition Earns EPA-Estimated 24 MPG Highway
