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It’s not often that one thinks of taking a full-size SUV off the road, but for those who want to do more with their truck than carry kids to the soccer game, Ford offers the 2003 Expedition with an FX4 off-road package.

The FX4 package includes factory-installed skid plates to protect the engine, radiator, transfer case and fuel tank from damage if they get dragged over a rock or a mound of dirt. A limited-slip rear axle, all-terrain tires, chromed steel wheels and shock absorbers turned for off-road driving complete the package.

The test vehicle lacked the power folding third seat, navigation system and rear-seat entertainment center of the Eddie Bauer edition I drove earlier this year, but its sticker price was a much friendlier $41,400 instead of $49,275.

The standard Expedition has a very cushy ride, but the FX4’s special shocks provide a ride that is tighter without being harsh. It handles undulating roads with suppleness and cruises almost as smoothly as a passenger car on the highway. The body seems to sit a little flatter in turns even though it appears to stand a little taller than the standard model. The taller stance may be strictly visual since the tubular step bars make the vehicle look farther from the ground. Chromed steel wheels are less susceptible to damage in rugged going and also give the FX4 a more utilitarian look.

The redesigned 2003 Expedition is a significant improvement over the previous one. The styling, which looks like a larger version of the Explorer, has tight panel gaps and simple lines. The look is noticeably cleaner, and the vehicle rides on an all-new frame with independent rear suspension and bigger brakes. The chassis is 70 percent stiffer, and that solid foundation translates into a feeling of heft throughout the vehicle. The tall driving position gives a commanding view of the road but it requires stepping on the side steps to get in.

The FX4 is equipped with the iron-block, 5.4-liter V-8 that has 260 horsepower. This engine has been through numerous design changes to make it smoother, and hydraulic engine mounts are now used to isolate the engine from the frame. Special attention has been paid to increasing low-speed responsiveness, and the engine pulls away from a stop with more guts. Ford says the automatic transmission adjusts to the demands of towing by using computer logic to recognize load and road conditions.

The ControlTrac four-wheel-drive system that comes with the FX4 package has a transfer case that divides torque between the front and rear wheels. The AdvanceTrac system electronically applies the brakes to individual wheels to aid side-to-side traction. Ford says the Expedition can keep moving with two wheels completely off the ground.

In two-wheel-drive mode, Ford points out the front axles, driveshaft and differential are disconnected for quieter, more fuel-efficient operation.

Ford has invested considerable time and attention in safety. A seat-track sensor m atches the driver’s airbag deployment to the driver’s size and crash severity. The full-length inflatable safety canopy protects against side impacts and inflates in the event of a rollover. The optional Advance Trac vehicle stability system, worth every penny of its $795 cost, helps counteract skids and keeps the vehicle stable in conditions that might lead to a loss of control or a rollover. Brake Assist anticipates panic stops and applies full braking power, which reduces stopping distances by 20 percent. The four-wheel disc brake system uses bigger rotors and has anti-lock standard. Bumper beams are located at the same height as passenger carsÕ bumpers and a tire-pressure monitoring system is offered.

One of the key additions to the 2003 Expedition is its independent rear axle. This unit’s rear axle shafts extend through a hole in the side frame rail so as to keep a flat cargo floor and a lower vehicle profile. This clever design is also used on the Explorer. Independent rear xles smooth out the ride and give better grip in all conditions. They also contribute to better on-road handling. Ford says the Expedition’s independent rear axle has a higher weight rating than the former model. Tow capacity is 8,900 pounds and payload capacity is 1,614 pounds.

While the interior of our FX4 was not as lavish as the Eddie Bauer Expedition, it was still quite nice. The front seats are wide enough for nearly anyone, yet still offer good lateral support. Adjustable pedals mean short drivers can find a good driving position without having the steering wheel in their chest. The optional leather upholstery and second-row captain’s chairs, with center console, were most inviting. Folks who carry cargo will prefer the second-row bench seat because it forms a large, flat surface when folded. Buyers seem to demand third seats these days so they can carry six or seven persons. A power third seat, for $455, is an option that is very handy once you experience it.

The top-hinged tailgate opens all the way down to the bumper, but its considerable size means closing it is a two-hand operation.

It’s possible to doll up the Expedition with a rear-seat DVD player, power moonroof and premium audio system, but the test truck, in the interest of cost, only had the in-dash, six-disc CD player and premium audio system.

Most buyers won’t ever take their SUVs off road, but the FX4 package gives added protection and capability for those who do.

Price
The base price of our four-wheel-drive Expedition was $37,610. Options included the 3.73 axle ratio, AdvanceTrac stability control, premium stereo, safety canopy and second-row captain’s chairs.

The sticker price was $41,400.

Warranty
Three years or 36,000 miles.

To get in touch with Tom Strongman, send e-mail to tstrongman@kc.rr.com.

Point:
The redesigned Expedition is a significant improvement, and the FX4 package enhances its off-road capability. It is quieter, smoother, bigger inside and has an improved ride. It is available with safety equipment such as a vehicle stability system, side-curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, Brake Assist and a rollover sensor.

Counterpoint:
This is a big, tall vehicle and it feels that way in small spaces. Fuel mileage is not great and the tail gate is heavy enough to require two hands to get it shut.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Engine: 5.4-liter, 262-horsepower V-8
Transmission: automatic Four-wheel drive
Wheelbase: 119 inches
Curb weight: 5,686 lbs.
Base price: $37,610
As driven: $41,400
Mpg rating: 13 city, 17 hwy.