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Oh goodness, we can’t believe that the standard Ford Expedition XL model is missing one crucial feature. All three-row family SUVs should have this standard feature, but it makes sense for it to be optional, at least. See what the 2023 Ford Expedition base model is missing. 

The standard 2023 Ford Expedition doesn’t have the third row 

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A 2023 Ford Expedition | Ford

You have been warned about the 2023 Ford Expedition XL. This base model doesn’t come standard with third-row seating. It only has seating for up to five passengers. So, if you have extra kids or friends, you may need to go up a trim level. 

Upgrading to the XLT trim will provide seating for up to eight passengers. We can see the benefits of only having five seats, though. It may add some extra cargo space, which could be especially beneficial if you’re using this SUV as a work vehicle. 

Also, you can tell in-laws or your kid’s annoying friends that you don’t have room to tote them around. Plus, it leaves extra room in the back for dogs. However, we recommend buckling our furry friends in for safety. 

What comes standard with the 2023 Expedition? 

Even though the standard 2023 Ford Expedition model is missing the third row, it still comes with plenty of assets. In fact, Motor Trend ranks the Expedition as the three-row SUV with the most value. 

The 2023 Expedition XL is intended for fleet buyers and starts the party with 18-inch wheels, LED headlights, foglights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. 

You also get a power-adjustable driver’s seat, 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, keyless entry/ignition, a six-speaker audio system, a 12.0-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and the trailer tow package. 

Standard safety features include automatic high beams, blind spot monitoring, rear-cross traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. 

The standard engine is a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 unit with 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. That’s an impressive amount of muscle. 

The 2023 Expedition starts at $54,155, and you can upgrade to the Expedition XLT, which starts at $59,190. Upgrading to the XLT adds seating for eight, tri-zone automatic climate control, more USB ports, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, and satellite radio. 

Which 2023 Expedition trim is best? 

2023 Ford Expedition best SUV to buy
2023 Ford Expedition | Ford

The 2023 Ford Expedition Limited trim is a popular middle-of-the-lineup option that rings in at $68,080. If you can get past the sticker shock, it adds plenty of luxury and convenience features like a hands-free liftgate and optional captain’s chairs. 

It also has a panoramic sunroof, 20-inch wheels, leather upholstery, heated seats in the second row, front parking sensors, rain-sensing windshield wipers, power-folding mirrors, a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, built-in navigation, and adaptive cruise control. 

There are plenty of different options to meet various needs. For example, the Timberline has robust off-roading upgrades, and the MAX adds more cargo space. Also, the King Ranch provides western luxury. 

Just remember that the XL model is recommended for fleets. While it provides savings and is full of value, it doesn’t have the third row!