2022 Ford Expedition Broadens Appeal With Timberline and Stealth Performance Models

Ford is keeping the big-boy Expedition SUV fresh for 2022 with a substantial update. In come two new trims, infotainment big enough to suit such a sizeable rig, and Ford’s Blue Cruise hands-free driving aid, amongst other goodies.

Up first is the Timberline trim. The Blue Oval is pushing its crossovers into more off-road-capable spaces, first with the E xplorer Timberline, and now this. Like its sibling, the Expedition Timberline features a smattering of orange-tinted accents inside and out, and all-terrain tires wrapped around black 18-inch alloy wheels. The new rolling stock also means a wider track front and rear. The biggest Timberline sees a unique front grille treatment, too. With ride height up to 10.6 inches (270 mm), the Expedition has better approach and departure angles than before. For added protection, the F-150 Raptor’s front skid plate is also available.

Other mechanical improvements include a two-speed transfer case, larger stabilizer bars, unique springs, and a rear limited-slip differential. The Timberline also features the Trail Turn Assist found on the Bronco. This feature locks the inside rear wheel off-road, allowing for tighter turning circles.

If on-road performance is more your speed, Ford will sell you a Stealth Edition Performance Package next year. This Expedition goes in a different direction: its suspension is lower and stiffer, with more aggressive styling. As the name suggests, the visual theme is darker everything: the fog lamp bezels, the head- and taillights, the running boards, the roof rails—you get the idea. It gets black wheels too, only they’re enormous 22-inch items. The Stealth package is available on the Limited and Limited Max versions of the Expedition.

Both of these new options come exclusively with a high-output version of the Expedition’s 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6. Here it produces 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Lower trims stick to a 380-hp, 470-lb-ft version. All use a 10-speed automatic, sending power either to the rear or all four wheels. With the heavy-duty towing package, the Expedition will now tow up to 9,300 pounds—more than a Tahoe or Jeep’s new Wagoneer.

Inside, Ford has changed up the dashboard design, with a cleaner look and higher-quality materials. A 12.0-inch wide-screen touchscreen is standard fit here, running Sync 4. Buyers will have the option to upgrade to the portrait-style 15.5-inch unit however, as found in the Mustang Mach-E. It runs the slightly newer Sync 4A system. Both now feature wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. A digital instrument panel is available, as is Ford’s Blue Cruise hands-free driver assist. The latter will only be offered on the top Platinum trim, at least for now.