Hey guys, let's dive into the 2016 Ford Expedition EL Platinum. If you're in the market for a spacious, capable, and feature-packed full-size SUV, this rig might just be your jam. Ford really went all out with the Platinum trim, loading it up with premium amenities and tech that make long road trips and daily hauling a breeze. We're talking about a vehicle that's built for families who need serious passenger and cargo room, without sacrificing comfort or performance. So, buckle up, because we're about to break down what makes the 2016 Expedition EL Platinum such a solid choice for so many.

Powerhouse Performance and Handling

When you're looking at a beast like the 2016 Ford Expedition EL Platinum, you're naturally going to be curious about what's under the hood and how it handles the road. Ford equipped this EL (Extended Length) model with its potent 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. Now, I know what some of you might be thinking, 'A V6 in a full-size SUV?' But trust me, this isn't just any V6. This EcoBoost powerhouse pumps out a very respectable 365 horsepower and a massive 420 pound-feet of torque. That's enough grunt to get this big boy moving, and more importantly, it provides plenty of muscle for towing. Speaking of towing, this Expedition EL Platinum is rated to tow up to 9,200 pounds when properly equipped. That means you can hook up a decent-sized boat, a couple of ATVs, or a travel trailer without breaking a sweat. It comes standard with rear-wheel drive (RWD), but four-wheel drive (4WD) was a popular and readily available option, giving you extra confidence in slippery conditions or when venturing off the beaten path. The engine is paired with a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission that does a fine job of keeping the power delivery consistent and efficient. While it's a large SUV, Ford did a commendable job with the suspension. The independent rear suspension helps to provide a more comfortable ride and better handling than traditional solid rear axles. You'll find that it cruises down the highway with ease, soaking up bumps and road imperfections, making it an excellent companion for long hauls. Steering is responsive for its class, and while you won't be carving up canyons like a sports car, it feels planted and secure, even when loaded with passengers and gear.

Interior Comfort and Platinum-Level Luxury

Now, let's talk about where the 2016 Ford Expedition EL Platinum truly shines: the interior. Stepping inside this rig feels like entering a premium lounge on wheels. The 'Platinum' trim designation isn't just a fancy badge; it signifies the absolute top tier of comfort and convenience Ford offered for the Expedition lineup. You'll immediately notice the rich leather-trimmed seating throughout all three rows. The front seats are not only heated but also ventilated and offer 10-way power adjustment, including power lumbar and headrests. Seriously, finding your perfect driving position is a cinch, and these seats are designed for ultimate comfort on those marathon drives. For the folks in the second row, you've got a choice between a spacious bench seat or two captain's chairs, both of which are also heated – talk about keeping everyone happy! The third row, often a cramped affair in other SUVs, is surprisingly accommodating in the Expedition EL, thanks to its PowerFold® flat-folding rear seat. This feature allows the third-row seats to fold flat with the push of a button, creating an enormous, level cargo area when needed, or easily flipping back up for passenger duty. Beyond the seating, the Platinum trim boasts premium wood and metallic accents throughout the cabin, adding a touch of sophistication. The SYNC® with MyFord Touch® infotainment system, while perhaps a bit dated by today's standards, was cutting-edge for 2016, offering navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and an 8-inch touchscreen display. You also get a premium Sony® audio system to keep the tunes sounding fantastic. Other luxurious touches include ambient interior lighting, a power liftgate for easy cargo access, and remote start. It’s clear that Ford aimed to make the Expedition EL Platinum feel like a true luxury vehicle, and for the most part, they succeeded. Every surface feels high-quality, and the overall cabin ambiance is one of refined comfort.

Technology and Safety Features

Ford didn't skimp on the tech and safety features for the 2016 Ford Expedition EL Platinum, aiming to keep drivers and passengers safe and entertained. The star of the show inside was the SYNC® with MyFord Touch® infotainment system. This system, operated via an 8-inch touchscreen, offered a gateway to navigation, your music, phone calls, and climate controls. While it had its quirks, it was a significant step forward in integrating digital features into the vehicle. For keeping everyone connected and entertained on those long journeys, you'll find multiple USB ports, an SD card reader, and an auxiliary audio jack. The Sony® branded audio system with numerous speakers provided a rich and immersive listening experience. For those concerned about staying connected, Bluetooth® streaming audio and hands-free calling were standard. The rear-view camera, coupled with front and rear parking sensors, made maneuvering this large SUV in tight spots significantly less stressful. On the safety front, the 2016 Expedition EL Platinum was well-equipped. It came with Ford's AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™, which is crucial for a vehicle of this size and height to help prevent rollovers. You also got anti-lock disc brakes (ABS), multiple airbags strategically placed throughout the cabin, including front-seat side airbags and side-curtain airbags for all three rows. Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with cross-traffic alert was a highly recommended option that greatly enhanced awareness of your surroundings, especially on busy highways. Adaptive Cruise Control was also available, allowing the vehicle to maintain a set speed and distance from the car ahead, reducing driver fatigue on long trips. Child safety was also considered, with LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) connectors in the second and third rows, making it easier to install child car seats securely. While advanced driver-assistance systems have evolved significantly since 2016, this Expedition offered a solid suite of technologies for its time, focusing on both convenience and crucial safety.

Space and Versatility: The EL Advantage

The 'EL' in the 2016 Ford Expedition EL Platinum stands for Extended Length, and guys, this is where this SUV truly pulls ahead of its standard-wheelbase sibling and many competitors. If you need serious passenger and cargo space, the EL version is your go-to. The extended wheelbase translates directly into more room for everyone and everything. Let's talk passengers first. While the standard Expedition offers a respectable third row, the EL version provides noticeably more legroom and shoulder room in that back row, making it a genuinely viable space for adults on shorter trips, and a comfortable haven for kids on longer journeys. This means you can comfortably ferry around up to eight people (depending on the second-row seating configuration) without anyone feeling overly cramped. But the real magic of the EL happens when you need to haul stuff. With the PowerFold® second and third-row seats, you can create an absolutely cavernous cargo area. Fold both rows flat, and you're looking at around 130.8 cubic feet of total cargo space. To put that into perspective, that's enough room for furniture, a serious amount of camping gear, or pretty much anything your family can throw at it. Even with the third row in use, you still have a respectable 42.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind it – ample room for groceries, sports equipment, or luggage for a family vacation. This versatility is what makes the Expedition EL such a fantastic family vehicle. Need to pick up lumber from the home improvement store? Fold down the seats. Taking the whole crew to the lake? Everyone fits, and there's still room for coolers and beach chairs. The high-liftgate makes loading bulky items easier, and the low load floor reduces the strain of lifting heavy objects into the cargo area. It’s this blend of comfortable passenger capacity and expansive, flexible cargo volume that truly sets the 2016 Expedition EL Platinum apart and makes it a top contender in the full-size SUV segment.

Final Thoughts on the 2016 Expedition EL Platinum

So, to wrap things up, the 2016 Ford Expedition EL Platinum is a seriously capable and luxuriously appointed full-size SUV. It nails the trifecta of passenger comfort, powerful performance, and cavernous cargo space, especially with the EL designation. The EcoBoost V6 engine delivers strong power for both daily driving and towing needs, while the independent rear suspension ensures a comfortable ride. Inside, the Platinum trim spoils you with premium materials, heated and cooled seats, and a host of tech features that were competitive for its time. For families who need to haul a crowd or a mountain of gear, the extended length and versatile seating configurations are a massive advantage. While it's an older model now, if you can find one in good condition, the 2016 Expedition EL Platinum remains a compelling option for anyone seeking a robust, comfortable, and practical large SUV. It's a vehicle that proves you don't have to sacrifice comfort or capability when you need serious space. Cheers!