Finding Your Ford Luxury SUV

Many car shoppers wonder if American automotive giants like Ford offer vehicles that can compete in the luxury SUV market. It’s a common question, especially when you’re looking for that blend of practicality, capability, and a touch of indulgence without necessarily stepping into the ultra-premium brand price bracket. You’ve come to the right place to get a clear answer and explore the best Ford options that deliver a truly sophisticated experience. Let’s dive into how Ford achieves this and which models might be your ideal match.

Ford’s Approach to “Luxury”

Ford doesn’t typically brand its vehicles as “luxury” in the same way brands like Lexus, BMW, or Mercedes-Benz do. However, they excel at offering vehicles with premium features, high-quality materials, advanced technology, and exceptional comfort, particularly in their higher trim levels. These trims often rival or exceed the offerings of entry-level luxury SUVs, providing a compelling value proposition.

Think of it this way: Ford aims to bring a high level of refinement and advanced features to a broader audience. When you look at models like the Explorer or Expedition in their top-tier trims, you’ll find features that are undeniably luxurious. These include things like:

• Plush leather seating
• Advanced infotainment systems with large touchscreens
• Premium sound systems
• Cutting-edge driver-assistance technologies
• Sophisticated interior design and materials
• Smooth and quiet rides

So, while you might not see a “Ford L” badge, you’ll certainly find plenty of luxury within Ford’s SUV lineup.

Top Ford SUVs for a Luxury Feel

When seeking a Ford SUV with a luxurious feel, two models stand out prominently: the Ford Explorer and the Ford Expedition. Both offer distinct advantages depending on your needs for space, power, and specific premium amenities.

The Ford Explorer: A Sophisticated Choice

The Ford Explorer is arguably Ford’s flagship SUV when it comes to balancing everyday usability with premium appointments. It’s a mid-size SUV that has evolved significantly over the years, incorporating more sophisticated design elements and advanced technology.

Explorer Trims to Consider for Luxury

To experience the most luxurious aspects of the Explorer, focus on its higher trim levels:

• Explorer Limited: This trim typically includes features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a premium B&O sound system, a larger touchscreen infotainment system, and advanced driver-assist features.
• Explorer Platinum: Taking luxury a step further, the Platinum trim often adds even more premium leather options, unique interior accents, enhanced sound deadening for a quieter cabin, and more sophisticated styling cues.
• Explorer ST: While known for its sporty performance, the ST trim also comes loaded with premium features, including performance-oriented luxury appointments that enhance the driving experience.

The Explorer offers a comfortable ride, a well-appointed interior with quality materials, and a host of technology features that make every journey more enjoyable. It’s a strong contender for those who want a refined family SUV that doesn’t compromise on capability.

The Ford Expedition: Uncompromising Size and Luxury

For those who need more space and a commanding presence, the Ford Expedition is the ultimate Ford SUV. This full-size SUV offers three rows of seating and ample cargo room, making it ideal for larger families or those who frequently haul passengers and gear. Crucially, its higher trims deliver a truly luxurious experience.

Expedition Trims for a Premium Experience

When looking for luxury in the Expedition, these trims are your best bet:

• Expedition Limited: Similar to the Explorer Limited, this trim brings a significant upgrade in luxury, featuring perforated leather seats, heated second-row seats, a premium sound system, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced navigation.
• Expedition Platinum: This is where the Expedition truly shines as a luxury vehicle. It boasts the highest quality leather, unique interior trim, a continuously controlled damping suspension for an exceptionally smooth ride, and a suite of advanced safety and convenience features. The Platinum trim aims to compete directly with luxury SUVs from other brands.
• Expedition King Ranch: For those who appreciate a Western-inspired luxury aesthetic, the King Ranch trim offers unique badging, special leather treatments, and a distinctive interior design that evokes a sense of rugged elegance.

The Expedition provides a commanding view of the road, a powerful yet smooth driving experience, and an interior that can be optioned to feel every bit as luxurious as much more expensive rivals. Its size alone contributes to a feeling of opulence and comfort.

Comparing Ford’s Premium SUVs

Choosing between the Explorer and the Expedition depends on your specific needs. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Key Luxury Features to Look For

Regardless of whether you choose an Explorer or an Expedition, or even consider other Ford models in their top trims, here are some key features that elevate the driving experience to a near-luxury level:

• Premium Upholstery: Look for genuine leather, perforated leather, or unique leather treatments (like those found in King Ranch or Platinum models).
• Advanced Infotainment: A large, responsive touchscreen (often 10 inches or more) with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and integrated navigation is standard in higher trims.
• Premium Audio Systems: Brands like Bang & Olufsen (B&O) offer significantly enhanced sound quality.
• Comfort Features: Heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel, and multi-zone automatic climate control are crucial for a comfortable ride.
• Panoramic Sunroofs: These add an airy, open feel to the cabin.
• Driver Assistance Technologies: Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind-Spot Monitoring, and 360-degree cameras enhance safety and reduce driving fatigue.
• Interior Ambiance: Features like ambient interior lighting, soft-touch materials, real wood or metal accents, and quiet cabin engineering contribute to a premium feel.
• Power-Adjustable and Memory Seats: For personalized comfort and convenience.

Are There Other Ford SUVs with Premium Options?

While the Explorer and Expedition are the primary models that offer a distinctly luxurious experience, Ford’s other SUVs can also be equipped with many premium features in their higher trim levels. For instance:

• Ford Edge: In its ST-Line or Titanium trims, the Edge offers a comfortable ride, a well-designed interior, and available premium features that provide a more upscale feel than base models. It’s a good option if you prefer a smaller, more agile SUV.
• Ford Bronco: While the Bronco is geared towards off-road adventure, higher trims like the Wildtrak or specialized editions can come with more premium interior materials and advanced tech, though its primary focus remains ruggedness.

It’s always best to check the specific trim levels and available packages for any Ford SUV you’re considering to see how closely it aligns with your definition of luxury.

Where to Find Authoritative Information

To get the most accurate and detailed information about Ford’s luxury-oriented SUVs, consider these resources:

• Ford Official Website: Ford.com is the best place to explore current models, specifications, trim levels, and build your ideal vehicle.
• Reputable Automotive Review Sites: Websites like Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Edmunds provide in-depth reviews, comparisons, and pricing information that can help you make an informed decision.
• Local Ford Dealerships: Visiting a dealership allows you to see the vehicles in person, sit in the seats, and take a test drive to truly experience their premium qualities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does Ford make a direct competitor to luxury SUVs like the Lexus RX or BMW X5?

A1: While Ford doesn’t market a direct “luxury brand” competitor, the higher trims of the Ford Explorer (like Platinum) and Ford Expedition (like Platinum or King Ranch) offer comparable levels of interior refinement, technology, and comfort that can rival many entry-level luxury SUVs. They provide a strong value proposition for those seeking a premium experience.

Q2: What is the most luxurious Ford SUV?

A2: The Ford Expedition in its Platinum or King Ranch trims is generally considered the most luxurious Ford SUV. It offers the most spacious cabin, the highest quality materials, the most advanced features, and the most commanding presence among Ford’s SUV lineup.

Q3: Are the premium trims of the Ford Explorer significantly more expensive?

A3: Yes, higher trim levels like the Limited and Platinum will naturally have a higher MSRP than base models due to the added features, materials, and technology. However, when compared to similarly equipped luxury SUVs from other brands, they often present a more affordable option.

Q4: Can I get advanced safety features on Ford’s premium SUVs?

A4: Absolutely. Ford equips its higher trim levels of the Explorer and Expedition with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and 360-degree camera systems.

Q5: Which Ford SUV is best for towing with a luxurious feel?

A5: The Ford Expedition is the superior choice for towing due to its larger size and more powerful standard V6 engine. Its premium trims offer a luxurious cabin, making long hauls or towing trips more comfortable and refined.

Q6: Does Ford offer electric SUVs with luxury features?

A6: Yes, the Ford Mustang Mach-E offers a modern, tech-forward interior with premium options available on higher trims like the Premium and GT. It provides a sleek, electric driving experience with many luxury-oriented features and a distinctively upscale feel.