Since Ford cancelled production of the huge Excursion SUV in 2005, it began offering an extended length version of the Expedition beginning in 2007. Called the Expedition EL, it offers nearly the same amount of space as the Excursion, but with improved fuel economy. Its main competition is the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL. It is about 16 inches longer than the standard length Expedition and has a greater towing capacity as well.

An increasingly popular large family vehicle, both versions have earned a 5-Star crash test rating from the NHTSA. As CAFE regulations begin to kick in starting 2015, the future of this large SUV genre is in doubt. While demand will not completely disappear, Ford and other automakers alike will need to figure out some sort of alternative.