The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV that’s comfortable, capable, and roomy. The Ford F-150 Raptor is a full-size truck with desert-racing equipment and an off-road focus. What if you combined the two?

The Ford Expedition Timberline does almost just that, equipping the F-150-based SUV with rugged add-ons for go-anywhere capability. Let’s take a look at the Expedition Timberline and how it compares to the brand’s legendary off-roader, the Raptor.

Why the Ford Expedition Timberline is similar to the F-150 Raptor

With its muscular appearance and trail-ready suspension, the Expedition Timberline echoes the F-150 Raptor. While it doesn’t have the Raptor’s trophy truck fender flares or long travel suspension, the Timberline has plenty of features to tackle demanding terrain.

Both vehicles use a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine and chassis tuning for off-highway travel. Underneath, skid plates protect their undercarriages from rocks and debris. And heavy-duty shocks soak up bumps and drops.

The Expedition Timberline and F-150 Raptor aren’t exactly the same. After all, the Raptor can handle high-speed desert driving in stock form, while the Timberline has more tame abilities.

But, in essence, they have a comparable purpose, with the Expedition Timberline skewing toward everyday comfort and the F-150 Raptor aimed at off-road performance.

Ford Expedition Timberline: specs and features

The Ford Expedition Timberline has a spec sheet reminiscent of the F-150 Raptor. The Timberline’s twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 makes 440 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque. That’s a healthy dose of horsepower, whether merging on the highway or clawing up a steep grade.

A Rough Road suspension with 10.6 inches of ground clearance means the Expedition can hit the trails with navigate rough roads with ease. And for tenacious traction on any surface, push-button Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System ensures even power delivery.

Additionally, the Expedition Timberline has a fully boxed frame for truck-like strength and stabilizer bars front and rear for flat cornering. Cool details like black wheels with laser-etched “Timberline” logos, front-mounted tow hooks, and an underbody-mounted full-size spare round out the package.

Should you pick this SUV or the Ford Raptor?

The Ford Expedition Timberline and F-150 Raptor can tame rough terrain and have classic American style. But which is the better pick?

For someone who values the latest and greatest off-road technology, the Raptor can’t be beaten. With Fox shocks reminiscent of those on a motocross bike—including 14″ travel in front and 15″ in the rear—the Raptor can handle stunt-like drops and high-speed desert runs like a trophy truck.

Add in the Raptor’s comprehensive feature set—like heavy-duty skid plates, high-strength steel frame, and 5-link rear suspension—and you have a vehicle on par with racing machinery.

But for those who want around-town versatility and rugged upgrades, the Expedition Timberline is a solid pick. The Timberline excels as an everyday vehicle that can still handle rough terrain. That’s reassuring when you need comfortable transportation during the week but want to go exploring on the weekend.

And then there’s the price. The Expedition Timberline slots in $5,000 less than the Raptor, making it a more sensible pick for adventure-seeking SUV buyers.

With the Expedition Timberline and F-150 Raptor, Ford made two vehicles with trail-focused equipment. While both offer strong capability, picking between them comes down to what someone values: extreme off-road performance or rugged versatility. They’re both excellent picks.