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While it may seem contrary to bring out a new, extra-length version of Ford Expedition while interest in full-size SUVs is slackening, a fairly sizable market for the big dogs still exists. The slice of the pie may be slimmer, but it remains significant. Expedition gets a favorable makeover for 2007, with greater sophistication, improved comfort and drivability, a nicer interior and the addition of the EL, or extra-length version. The EL goes head-to-head with key competitor Chevrolet Suburban, and it replaces the huge, discontinued Excursion, which had become targeted by environmentalists as the poster child for excess. Most of EL’s 15 inches of extra space went into the rear cargo area in answer to complaints about standard-length Expeditions being skimpy on cargo room behind the third row of seats. The problem was, if you had a full load of people, you couldn’t take along a full load of cargo, such as camping gear or suitcases. Now you can, although the downside is having to deal with a vehicle of formidable size and poor gas mileage. Despite its extra length and three tons of bulk, EL is fairly easy to drive, with responsive rack-and-pinion steering, solid braking and even decent handling. The ride is tuned for luxury and quiet comfort, which creates some isolation from the road and a ponderous feel in cornering. Overall, a definite upgrade for Expedition, short or long, in refinement and capability.

PERFORMANCE: Ford’s reliable 5.4-liter V-8 is an overhead-cam unit with a three-valve head, which may sound like gobbledygook but signifies a strong and sophisticated unit with smooth performance. Especially for a truck. The 300-horsepower engine has a lot of weight to pull, which blunts its response, naturally. The six-speed automatic transmission, however, feels right on target all the time. Gas mileage is bleak, as expected, and once again makes me wonder why nobody has economical diesel options for big SUVs, as they do for pickup trucks.

DRIVABILITY: Yes, it’s true, the big Expedition drives quite nicely, certainly better than you’d expect. You do have to keep its mammoth size in mind when going around corners. Independent rear suspension, nearly unheard of in a full-size truck, does two things: It provides more comfort and better handling, and it improves space inside. Suspension enhancements include Advancetrac one word with roll-stability control, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock and Control Trac two words four-wheel-drive system.

STYLING: A brawnier look with bulging hood and streamlined bumpers and trim, plus a bold grille similar to the F-Series pickup truck, adds a refined look, big-truck style. In the EL, the rear door is squared off, making entry and exit more comfortable.

INTERIOR: Ford interiors have improved enormously in the past few years, and Expedition shows it. The inside of the Limited tester felt more like a luxury car than a truck. From the large, comfortable seats to the simple but good-looking dashboard, the Limited seemed top-drawer all the way. The rear seats fold flat into the floor, and the test truck included a one-touch power option.

BOTTOM LINE: Pricey at $50,000 including options, Expedition EL provides plenty of luxury, safety and convenience features for the money. A good truck made better.

Ford Expedition Limited EL

Vehicle type: Eight-passenger, four-door SUV, four-wheel drive. Engine: 5.4-liter V-8, 300 horsepower at 5,000 rpm, 365 pound-feet torque at 3,750 rpm. Transmission: Six-speed automatic. Wheelbase: 131 inches. Overall length: 221.3 inches. Curb weight: 6,053 pounds. Towing capacity: 8,750 pounds. EPA rating: 14 city, 20 highway.

HIGHS: Roomy interior, decent handling, refined ride. LOWS: Ponderous size, grim gas mileage, pricey with options.

Pricing

Base price: $42,575. Price as tested: $51,080.

OPTIONS -Navigation system, electronic rearview mirror and microphone8, $1,995. -Rear-seat DVD, $1,500. -20-inch chrome wheels, $995. -Moonroof, $950. -Reverse radar, power adjustable pedals, power rear quarter windows, $675. -Power liftgate, $495. -Load leveler, $385. -Trailer tow, $350. -Satellite radio, $195. -Daytime lights, $45. -Shipping, $820.