If you need maximum space, serious towing, and a full-size SUV that hauls people and gear without hesitation — the 2026 Ford Expedition Max remains one of the most compelling options on the market. After a major redesign in 2025, the 2026 model carries forward what worked: big power, huge interior, modern tech — but with enough refinement and utility to still make sense for families, weekend warriors, and road-trip junkies alike.
On the outside, the Expedition Max still announces itself. The boxier proportions give it presence — a long body, tall stance, and rugged lines that hint at capability. The 2025 redesign brought a new split-tailgate (aka “Split Gate”), combining a traditional liftgate with a drop-down lower tailgate section. Utility-minded touches like that let you load bulky gear more easily — from bikes to coolers — while still keeping SUV practicality. LED lighting and refreshed front-end styling keep it modern enough that this isn’t just a rehashed giant SUV.
Step inside and the Max shows why it’s long been a go-to for three-row SUV shoppers. Up to eight passengers can ride, and the generous head- and leg-room across all rows stands out. The redesign also brought updated interior materials and layout improvements. Third-row visibility and access are still adequate — I wouldn’t call this a minivan, but for a full-size SUV, it’s roomy and usable enough for real-world family duties. Cargo room behind the third row is decent, and folding seats or using the Split Gate gives serious flexibility for gear, luggage, or large loads.
Under the hood is where the Expedition Max earns its keep. A twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 delivers 400 horsepower in standard trims, while higher-output versions push it to 440 horsepower. A 10-speed automatic (or 10-speed-type transmission) handles the shifts, and the suspension remains independent (rear independent setup), which helps the big SUV ride more comfortably than you might expect. Behind the wheel, acceleration is noticeably brisk for a vehicle of its size — with test data showing the Max (in high-output trim) reaching 60 mph in about 4.9 seconds. Whether it’s merging onto a highway, towing a trailer, or loading up for a long road trip — the Max doesn’t feel underpowered. On long drives, the ride quality settles into a smooth rhythm, absorbing bumps and highway expansion joints with competence.
Tech and comfort features on the 2026 Max reflect how far full-size SUVs have come. The cabin gets large digital displays, modern infotainment with smartphone integration, and available options like power-folding seats, premium audio, tri-zone climate, and multiple seating configurations (bench or captain’s-chairs in the second row, power-folding third-row, etc.). For drivers hauling families or cargo — or both — those options make a real difference. The Max balances practicality with a level of refinement that broadens its appeal beyond just “hauler.”
Value-wise, the Expedition Max sits comfortably among large SUVs considering what it offers. When you factor in its power, space, towing capacity (up to 9,000 lbs when properly equipped), and feature content — it’s a rare mix. Compared to full-size SUVs that charge similar money but offer less passenger/cargo space or lower towing ratings, the Max is still hard to beat for buyers who need the most versatility.
However, it’s not perfect. That huge footprint means parking and maneuvering in tight city spaces can be a challenge — not ideal if you mostly navigate urban areas. Fuel economy remains modest (EPA estimates for the 2025 base version are roughly 16 mpg city / 24 mpg highway; 4WD and heavier trim levels may do worse.) Steering and handling feel appropriately heavy for a big SUV — don’t expect nimble cornering or sports-car vibes. And while the interior is improved, some materials and design choices still feel more “practical large SUV” than “near-luxury.”
So who is the 2026 Expedition Max for? It’s built for people who need a full-size SUV: large families, those towing boats or trailers, buyers who load and haul gear — all with the flexibility to use it as a daily driver, away-trip vehicle, or workhorse all in one. If you want a vehicle that can tow, carry, seat, and adapt without turning into a complicated lifestyle equation — this is one of the best full-size SUVs you can buy right now.
If you’re shopping for a large SUV, I highly recommend plugging your ZIP code into Quotes.EverymanDriver.com before you start negotiating. Getting real-time dealer invoice pricing and current incentives on the Max can save you hundreds or even thousands — and with a vehicle this big, every dollar counts.
