Does Ford Still Sell Excursions?
No, Ford does not still sell the Ford Excursion. The Ford Excursion was discontinued after the 2006 model year. It is no longer available for purchase new from Ford dealerships. However, the Ford Excursion remains a popular choice in the used vehicle market for those seeking a large, capable, and versatile SUV.
This article will delve into the history of the Ford Excursion, its appeal, why it was discontinued, and what options exist for buyers interested in this iconic, super-sized SUV today.
The Rise and Reign of the Ford Excursion
The Ford Excursion was, without a doubt, a behemoth. Introduced for the 2000 model year, it was designed to fill a niche for American consumers who demanded the absolute maximum in size, towing capacity, and passenger-carrying ability. In a country where bigger is often better, the Excursion hit the market with a resounding roar.
Built on the Super Duty truck chassis, the Excursion was essentially a massive SUV version of the Ford F-250 and F-350 pickup trucks. This shared platform meant it inherited their ruggedness, their immense towing and hauling capabilities, and their imposing presence on the road. It wasn't just a large SUV; it was the largest SUV ever to be mass-produced for the American market.
Key Features and Appeal
What made the Excursion so appealing to its target audience? A combination of factors contributed to its cult following:
- Unmatched Size: The Excursion was truly enormous. Measuring over 25 feet long, nearly 7 feet wide, and over 6.5 feet tall, it dwarfed every other SUV on the market at the time. Parking it was an event, and driving it required a newfound respect for spatial awareness.
- Exceptional Passenger Capacity: With three rows of seating, the Excursion could comfortably (or at least, very snugly) seat up to nine people. This made it ideal for large families, carpools, or anyone who frequently transported groups.
- Class-Leading Towing and Hauling: Thanks to its Super Duty underpinnings, the Excursion boasted towing capacities that rivaled heavy-duty pickup trucks. Properly equipped, it could tow up to 10,000 pounds, making it a perfect vehicle for towing large trailers, boats, or RVs. Its payload capacity was also substantial.
- Robust Powertrains: Ford offered the Excursion with powerful engine options that were designed for serious work. These included the venerable 7.3-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8, a legendary engine known for its durability and torque, and several potent gasoline V8 engines.
- Versatility: While undeniably large, the Excursion was surprisingly versatile. It could handle family duties, off-road excursions (with appropriate tires and suspension), and heavy-duty towing, all within the same vehicle.
- "Go Anywhere, Do Anything" Image: For many buyers, the Excursion represented the ultimate expression of freedom and capability. It projected an image of strength and the ability to tackle any task or adventure.
The Excursion was available in several trim levels, with the XLT and the more upscale Limited being the most common. Even base models were well-equipped for their time, offering features like power windows and locks, air conditioning, and a premium sound system.
Why Was the Ford Excursion Discontinued?
Despite its unique appeal and the loyal following it garnered, the Ford Excursion's reign was relatively short. It was produced for only seven model years, with production ceasing after 2006. Several factors contributed to its discontinuation:
- Fuel Economy: Let's be blunt: the Excursion was a gas-guzzler. Its sheer size and weight, combined with its powerful engines, meant that fuel efficiency was never a strong suit. In an era of rising gas prices and increasing environmental awareness, the Excursion's thirst for fuel became a significant drawback for many consumers. The 7.3L Power Stroke diesel, while powerful, still struggled to achieve impressive MPG figures, and the gasoline V8s were even thirstier.
- Declining Sales and Market Shift: While the Excursion carved out its niche, the overall market for massive, body-on-frame SUVs began to shrink. Consumers started gravitating towards more fuel-efficient, comfortable, and car-like crossovers and SUVs. The demand for vehicles of the Excursion's extreme size simply wasn't sustainable in the long run.
- Platform Changes: The Excursion was based on the Super Duty truck platform. As Ford updated its Super Duty trucks, adapting the Excursion to newer chassis designs would have involved significant engineering and development costs. The business case for investing in a new generation of such a niche vehicle was likely not strong enough.
- Regulatory and Environmental Pressures: Increasingly stringent emissions standards and fuel economy regulations for larger vehicles may have also played a role in Ford's decision. Developing and certifying a new generation of the Excursion to meet these evolving requirements would have been a considerable undertaking.
- The Rise of the Ford Expedition EL: Ford already had a large SUV in its lineup, the Expedition. The introduction of the extended-length Expedition EL (later Max) offered a more fuel-efficient, albeit still large, alternative that catered to many of the same needs for passenger and cargo space without the extreme dimensions and truck-like ride of the Excursion.
Ultimately, the Ford Excursion was a product of its time. It was a bold statement in automotive engineering, designed for a specific set of needs that, while valid for many, proved to be too niche for long-term mass production in a changing automotive landscape.
The Ford Excursion in the Used Market Today
Even though it's been out of production for well over a decade, the Ford Excursion remains a highly sought-after vehicle in the used car market. Its unique combination of size, towing, and passenger capacity is simply not replicated by any current production SUV. This has led to a dedicated following and, in some cases, surprising resale values, especially for well-maintained examples.
What to Expect When Buying a Used Excursion
If you're considering purchasing a Ford Excursion, it's important to be aware of what you're getting into. These are large, older vehicles, and maintenance and ownership costs can be significant.
- Mileage: Most Excursions on the market will have considerable mileage. Inspecting maintenance records is crucial. A well-maintained vehicle with higher mileage is often a better buy than a neglected one with lower mileage.
- The 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel: If you find an Excursion with the 7.3L Power Stroke turbodiesel, it's often considered the engine to have. These engines are known for their longevity, but they also require specific maintenance. Be sure to check for issues related to injector problems, turbo wear, and oil leaks. Aftermarket upgrades are common and can significantly improve performance and reliability.
- Gasoline Engines: The gasoline V8 options (like the 5.4L Triton and 6.8L Triton) are also capable but tend to be even less fuel-efficient than the diesel. They can be simpler to maintain in some ways but may lack the torque for heavy towing.
- Rust: As with any older vehicle, rust can be a significant issue, particularly in regions where roads are salted during winter. Thoroughly inspect the frame, body panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage for any signs of corrosion.
- Suspension and Steering: Due to its weight and age, the suspension and steering components can wear out. Check for play in the steering wheel, uneven tire wear, and a generally sloppy ride.
- Interior Wear: The interior can show its age. Look for tears in the upholstery, worn carpets, and functioning electronics. The sheer number of passengers these vehicles often carried means interior wear is common.
- Towing and Off-Road Use: Many Excursions were used for towing or light off-roading. This can put extra stress on the drivetrain, suspension, and brakes. If possible, have a mechanic inspect the vehicle, especially if it appears to have been used heavily for these purposes.
Where to Find a Ford Excursion
Your best bet for finding a Ford Excursion is through the used vehicle market:
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like AutoTrader, Cars.com, Craigslist, and eBay Motors are excellent resources for finding used Excursions. You'll find listings from private sellers and dealerships across the country.
- Specialty Dealerships: Some dealerships specialize in trucks and SUVs, and they may have a rotating inventory of Excursions.
- Auctions: Local and national auto auctions can sometimes yield Excursions, but these often require expertise and come with less buyer protection.
- Forums and Owner Clubs: Dedicated Ford Excursion forums and owner clubs are invaluable resources. Members often post vehicles for sale, and they can offer expert advice on what to look for.
When buying from a private seller, always arrange for a pre-purchase inspection by an independent mechanic. This small investment can save you from costly surprises down the road.
Alternatives to the Ford Excursion
If the Ford Excursion is no longer in production, what are your options if you need a large, capable SUV today? While nothing truly matches the Excursion's sheer scale, several vehicles offer impressive size, towing, and passenger capacity:
1. Ford Expedition MAX
The Ford Expedition MAX (formerly EL) is the closest you'll get to an Excursion within Ford's current lineup. It's the extended-wheelbase version of the Ford Expedition, offering three rows of seating and significant cargo space. While not built on a heavy-duty truck chassis, it provides robust towing capabilities (up to 9,300 lbs when properly equipped) and a more comfortable, modern ride than the Excursion. It's a more fuel-efficient and refined option for families needing ample space.
2. Chevrolet Suburban / GMC Yukon XL
These GM cousins are the long-standing rivals to the Ford Expedition MAX. The Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL are also massive SUVs with three rows of seating and considerable towing capacity (up to 8,600 lbs for the Suburban). They offer a more conventional full-size SUV experience, with powerful V8 engines and a comfortable ride for long journeys. They represent a similar concept to the Excursion but are built on a lighter-duty platform.
3. Cadillac Escalade ESV
For those seeking luxury in a large SUV format, the Cadillac Escalade ESV (the extended version) is a prime candidate. It shares its platform with the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL but offers a more opulent interior, premium materials, and a more refined driving experience. Towing capacity is similar to its GM counterparts, and it provides ample space for passengers and cargo.
4. Heavy-Duty Pickup Trucks
If your primary need is towing and hauling capacity above all else, a modern heavy-duty pickup truck like the Ford F-250 Super Duty, Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD, or Ram 2500 might be a more practical choice than searching for an old Excursion. These trucks offer significantly higher towing and payload ratings, more powerful diesel engine options, and are designed for demanding work. However, they lack the enclosed passenger cabin of an SUV, and their ride can be harsher when unloaded.
5. Used Heavy-Duty SUVs (Pre-Excursion Era)
Before the Excursion, manufacturers offered other large, truck-based SUVs. Vehicles like the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL from earlier generations, or even the older Ford Excursions' predecessors like the Ford Excursion's ancestors in spirit, might be options, but they will be even older and potentially require more extensive maintenance.
When considering alternatives, it's essential to prioritize your needs: passenger capacity, towing requirements, fuel efficiency, comfort, and modern features. The Excursion was a unique solution to a specific set of problems, and finding a direct replacement is impossible.
The Legacy of the Ford Excursion
The Ford Excursion may be gone, but it is far from forgotten. It remains a legend in the automotive world, a symbol of American excess and capability. For those who owned one, it was often a beloved workhorse that served them faithfully for many years. For enthusiasts, it represents an era when manufacturers were willing to build vehicles for extreme purposes, pushing the boundaries of what was possible in a consumer vehicle.
Its legacy lives on in the memories of those who saw it, drove it, or were passengers in its cavernous interior. It also lives on in the used market, where a new generation of owners continues to appreciate its ruggedness and unparalleled utility. If you're looking for a vehicle that commands attention and can handle virtually any task you throw at it, the Ford Excursion, despite being discontinued, remains a compelling, albeit classic, option.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ford Excursion
1. Does Ford make the Excursion anymore?
No, Ford no longer manufactures or sells the Ford Excursion. The last model year was 2006.
2. Can I still buy a new Ford Excursion?
No, you cannot buy a new Ford Excursion. They are only available on the used vehicle market.
3. Is the Ford Excursion a diesel?
The Ford Excursion was offered with both gasoline V8 engines and a very popular 7.3-liter Power Stroke turbodiesel V8 engine. Many were produced with the diesel engine.
4. How much can a Ford Excursion tow?
When properly equipped, a Ford Excursion could tow up to 10,000 pounds, making it one of the most capable SUVs for towing at the time.
5. What replaced the Ford Excursion?
Ford did not release a direct replacement for the Excursion. However, the Ford Expedition MAX (formerly EL) is the largest SUV in Ford's current lineup and offers significant passenger and cargo space, though it is not built on a Super Duty truck chassis.
6. Is the Ford Excursion a good used car to buy?
The Ford Excursion can be a good used car for specific needs, particularly if you require massive towing capacity and passenger space. However, they are older vehicles and can be expensive to maintain, especially if you encounter issues. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.
7. What is the fuel economy of a Ford Excursion?
Fuel economy for the Ford Excursion was quite low, reflecting its size and engine options. Diesel models typically achieved low double-digit MPG (e.g., 10-15 MPG), while gasoline models were even less efficient.
8. Where can I find a Ford Excursion for sale?
You can find Ford Excursions for sale on various online used car marketplaces such as AutoTrader, Cars.com, Craigslist, and eBay Motors. Specialty dealerships and online forums dedicated to Ford trucks and SUVs are also good resources.
9. Why was the Ford Excursion discontinued?
The Ford Excursion was discontinued due to declining sales, increasing fuel prices, growing environmental concerns, and shifting consumer preferences towards smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles. The rising costs of developing a new generation to meet updated regulations also likely played a role.
10. Is the Ford Excursion considered a classic or collector car?
While not typically classified as a traditional "classic car" in the same vein as vintage muscle cars, the Ford Excursion has developed a strong cult following and is considered a highly sought-after niche vehicle among enthusiasts who appreciate its unique capabilities. Well-maintained diesel models, in particular, are gaining appreciation.