Hey there, gearheads! Today, we're diving deep into the fuel economy of the 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum. This full-size SUV is known for its spaciousness, luxury, and powerful performance. But, let's be real, with a vehicle of this size, fuel efficiency is often a top concern. So, how many miles per gallon (MPG) can you expect from the 2018 Expedition Platinum? And what factors influence its fuel consumption? Let's break it down, shall we?

Understanding the 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum

Before we jump into the MPG numbers, let's get acquainted with the beast. The 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum is the top-of-the-line trim, meaning it's packed with premium features and a robust engine. It's built to haul a crowd, tow heavy loads, and provide a comfortable ride for long journeys. Under the hood, you'll find a 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, a twin-turbocharged V6 that delivers plenty of power. This engine is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth gear changes and optimized fuel efficiency. The Expedition Platinum is available in both two-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations, which will significantly impact the MPG figures, as you'll soon see. Now, let's move on to the numbers you've all been waiting for!

2018 Ford Expedition Platinum MPG: The Official Numbers

Alright, let's cut to the chase and get those MPG figures! According to the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), the 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum achieves the following fuel economy ratings:

• 2WD: 17 MPG city, 23 MPG highway, and 19 MPG combined.
• 4WD: 17 MPG city, 22 MPG highway, and 19 MPG combined.

As you can see, the difference between the 2WD and 4WD models is minimal. The highway MPG is slightly lower for the 4WD version, which is typical due to the added weight and mechanical complexity of the four-wheel-drive system. These figures are generally in line with what you'd expect from a full-size SUV with a powerful engine. They aren't going to win any awards for fuel efficiency, but they're reasonably competitive within their class, especially considering the Expedition Platinum's capabilities. Remember, these are EPA-estimated figures, so your actual mileage may vary depending on driving conditions, habits, and other factors.

Factors Influencing 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum MPG

Several factors can influence the fuel economy of your 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum. Understanding these can help you maximize your MPG and get the most out of your gas tank. Here are some key contributors:

• Driving Habits: Aggressive acceleration and hard braking can significantly decrease your MPG. Gentle acceleration and maintaining a consistent speed are key to maximizing fuel efficiency. Try to anticipate traffic and avoid unnecessary stops and starts.
• Driving Conditions: City driving, with frequent stops and starts, typically results in lower MPG than highway driving. Highway driving, with its consistent speeds, allows the engine to operate more efficiently. Weather conditions, such as strong winds, can also impact fuel economy.
• Tire Pressure: Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly check your tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended levels, usually found on a sticker inside the driver's side doorjamb.
• Vehicle Weight: The heavier your vehicle, the more fuel it will consume. This is why 4WD models often have slightly lower MPG than their 2WD counterparts. Carrying unnecessary items in your vehicle adds weight and reduces fuel efficiency. Keep the cargo area clear of heavy items you don't need.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal fuel economy. This includes changing your oil and air filter as recommended, ensuring your engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine will always perform better and consume less fuel.
• Fuel Quality: Using high-quality fuel can sometimes improve fuel efficiency. While the Expedition Platinum can run on regular gasoline, using premium fuel might provide a slight improvement in MPG, though the difference may not always be noticeable or cost-effective.
• Terrain: Driving on hilly or mountainous terrain puts more strain on the engine, leading to lower MPG. Flat terrain is generally more fuel-efficient.

Comparing the 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum MPG to Competitors

It's always useful to see how a vehicle stacks up against its competitors. Let's compare the 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum's MPG to some of its rivals in the full-size SUV segment:

• Chevrolet Tahoe: The Chevrolet Tahoe, a direct competitor, typically offers similar MPG figures. The 2018 Tahoe with its V8 engine often achieves around 16 MPG city, 23 MPG highway, and 19 MPG combined for 2WD models. 4WD models will have slightly lower highway MPG, similar to the Expedition.
• GMC Yukon: The GMC Yukon, sharing a platform with the Tahoe, has similar fuel economy ratings. Expect figures close to the Tahoe, with a slight variation depending on the specific trim and engine configuration.
• Nissan Armada: The Nissan Armada, another contender, generally has slightly lower MPG ratings than the Expedition. The 2018 Armada typically achieves around 14 MPG city and 19 MPG highway. This difference is often attributed to the Armada's larger V8 engine.

As you can see, the 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum’s MPG is competitive within its class. It offers a good balance of power, luxury, and fuel efficiency compared to its rivals. The specific MPG figures can vary based on the trim level, engine, and driving conditions, but the overall performance is in line with expectations for a full-size SUV.

Tips for Improving Your 2018 Ford Expedition Platinum MPG

Want to squeeze out a few more miles per gallon from your Expedition Platinum? Here are some simple tips that can help:

• Drive Smoothly: Avoid sudden acceleration and braking. Maintain a steady speed as much as possible.
• Plan Your Routes: Use navigation apps to find the most fuel-efficient routes, avoiding heavy traffic and stop-and-go situations.
• Check Tire Pressure Regularly: Ensure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure.
• Reduce Weight: Remove unnecessary items from your vehicle.
• Use Cruise Control: On the highway, use cruise control to maintain a consistent speed.
• Regular Maintenance: Keep your vehicle properly maintained, including regular oil changes and air filter replacements.
• Consider Fuel Economy Modes: Some vehicles offer driving modes like