If you’re in the market for a new full-size off-road SUV, the 2022 Ford Expedition Timberline makes a case for itself. Like most people, we’re always a bit hesitant to fall in love with a new off-road trim level. You never know how much value it truly brings. Did the automaker add a rugged design and a few decals and call it off-road ready? Or is the 2022 Ford Expedition Timberline genuinely capable of taking on dirt trails and maybe even more? Here’s what some testers think of the off-road trim after 1,500 miles of driving.

1,500 miles in a 2022 Ford Expedition Timberline

According to Edmunds, they recently spent a lot of time with the full-size off-road SUV. A 2022 Ford Expedition Timberline needed more testing than a few days. As a result, the reviewer says it put 1,480 miles on it in about 11 days. All-encompassing, the driver was in control for about 28 hours total and used roughly 100 gallons of gas driving from LA to Napa Valley and back. With gas costing over $5 per gallon in the Golden State, we can imagine the total was a pretty penny.

Although critics test many vehicles, getting an authentic feel is always challenging without spending more time in one. What do a few hours or days really tell you about a vehicle’s quality? It gives an immediate impression of the way a car drives, operates, and more in a short amount of time. However, many buyers are interested in longevity over anything else. Why would you buy a car of any type if it isn’t going to perform well long term? Although 1,500 miles isn’t the same as ten or more years, it’s an excellent sample for the off-road SUV.

Expedition Timberline: Ride quality and more

In years past, the Expedition didn’t ride exceptionally well for a vehicle of its stature. However, the refreshed 2022 version is a big step in the right direction. Edmunds states it “has seemingly dialed that roughness right out.” In addition, the publication cited the off-road-oriented tires as a big reason why it feels so much smoother. Moreover, harsh impacts and other common ride problems with competitors are mostly minimized. Further, even backseat passengers found a trip in the Expedition Timberline to be of high quality.

Next, Co-Pilot 360 Assist 2.0 is part of what makes driving the Expedition 1,500 miles easier. However, it doesn’t come standard with the Timberline trim. Only attainable through the 501A option package, this feature will run you $9,220. Included are a bigger screen, an upgraded audio system, and Co-Pilot 360. It’s well worth it to keep the truck centered in a lane and maintain a speed behind the car in front of it without requiring complete control from the driver the entire time. However, the driver should always pay attention just in case.

Edmunds also loves the unique green interior of the Expedition Timberline. Not only is it an outdoorsy color that screams off-road-readiness, but it’s also very unique compared to rivals. Instead of your basic beige, brown, or black throughout the interior, the Ford full-size SUV’s off-road trim uses Deep Cypress leather with orange contrast stitching.

Engine and power

Underneath the hood of a Timberline trim, you’ll find the same engine used in the F-150 Raptor. Although it produces 10 horsepower less than the Raptor, it still makes a whopping 440 horses and the same 510 lb-ft of torque as its pickup truck sibling. Of course, with great power comes terrible fuel economy, which is a massive drawback of any vehicle with the Expedition’s size and strength. Edmunds sampled 14 mpg regularly, similar to GM competitors using a 6.2-liter V8.

Fortunately, a dip in fuel economy feels worth it while driving. The tester says it is easy to speed up and pass traffic on the highway. Additionally, it moves from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds, which is better than the F-150 Raptor, rated at 5.8 seconds. Furthermore, it isn’t an Expedition Raptor and doesn’t handle the off-road as well as the pickup.

If you’re looking for off-road niceties the standard Expedition doesn’t supply, the Timberline is the perfect trim level. For example, Trail Turn Assist locks the inside rear wheel to tighten the car’s turn radius while off-roading. In addition, off-road tires, underbody skid plates, and a slight lift make this version of the Expedition confidently capable away from the paved road.

2022 Ford Expedition Timberline: A capable full-size off-road SUV

In conclusion, anyone who requires an SUV with plenty of space for passengers and cargo, plus some off-road capability, will do well with the Expedition Timberline. Although it isn’t excellent on gas, it provides plenty of power and space. Additionally, its off-road chops are plenty for a family that goes camping or occasionally off-roading. Edmunds recommends it for taking the kids to a campground or just out in the woods for camping and back.

Its biggest detriment? The price. The tested version of the 2022 Ford Expedition Timberline costs $79,860 and is one of the most expensive vehicles from the automaker. However, a base model starts at $72,000, making it a little more affordable without all the tech and extras. Any family needing ample space and off-roading capability with some money burning a hole in their pocket should consider the Expedition Timberline.