2017 Ford Expedition Max Engine: What You Need to Know

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the heart of the 2017 Ford Expedition Max – its engine. When you're looking at a beast of an SUV like the Expedition Max, the engine is arguably the most crucial component. It's what gives you the power to tow, haul, and cruise in comfort. Ford really stepped up their game with the engines they offered in this model year, and we're going to break down exactly what makes it tick, what your options are, and what you should be keeping an eye on. Understanding the engine specs and performance can seriously help you make an informed decision, whether you're buying new (well, new to you!) or just want to get the most out of your current ride.

The Powerhouse: EcoBoost Technology

So, what's under the hood of the 2017 Ford Expedition Max? The star of the show is undoubtedly the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine. Now, before some of you traditionalists start thinking 'V6, not enough power for a big SUV,' hold on a sec! Ford's EcoBoost technology is seriously impressive. This isn't just any V6; it's a twin-turbocharged powerhouse that delivers a fantastic blend of performance and efficiency. For the 2017 model year, this 3.5L EcoBoost engine in the Expedition Max is rated at a stout 365 horsepower and a whopping 450 lb-ft of torque. That torque figure is where the magic happens, especially for towing and hauling. It means you've got serious grunt available right from lower RPMs, making it feel incredibly responsive even with a heavy load. Ford really engineered this engine to provide the kind of muscle you'd typically associate with a larger V8, but with the fuel economy benefits of a V6. They achieved this through direct injection, variable cam timing, and, of course, those twin turbochargers. The turbos work together to force more air into the cylinders, allowing for a more complete combustion and thus, more power. The result is an engine that feels potent, smooth, and surprisingly refined. It's designed to handle everything from daily commuting to tackling those weekend adventures where you need to pull a trailer, boat, or camper. The continuous power delivery, thanks to the twin-turbo setup, ensures that you're not left wanting for acceleration when you need it most. Plus, Ford has a pretty solid track record with the EcoBoost line, making it a generally reliable choice for drivers.

Transmission and Drivetrain Options

Paired with that mighty 3.5L EcoBoost V6 is a 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. This transmission is designed to work seamlessly with the EcoBoost engine, optimizing power delivery and fuel efficiency. The SelectShift feature gives you the option to manually select gears if you prefer, which can be handy for controlling your speed on downhill descents or when you need a bit more engine braking. For the 2017 Expedition Max, you had the choice between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD). The RWD setup is standard and generally offers slightly better fuel economy on the highway. However, if you live in an area with inclement weather, frequently tow heavy loads, or plan on venturing off the beaten path, the 4WD system is a fantastic option. Ford's 4WD system is robust and can handle various challenging conditions, providing enhanced traction and stability. The system allows you to manually select between different modes, including 2WD, 4WD Auto, and 4WD Low, giving you the flexibility to adapt to different terrains and driving situations. The combination of the torquey EcoBoost engine and the capable transmission and drivetrain options makes the 2017 Expedition Max a true workhorse, ready for just about anything you throw at it. Whether you're navigating city streets, cruising on the open road, or tackling some light off-roading, this setup is designed to perform reliably and efficiently. The gearing in the 6-speed transmission is well-spaced, ensuring that the engine stays within its optimal power band, whether you're accelerating from a stop or maintaining highway speeds. This thoughtful engineering contributes to both the performance feel and the overall driving experience of the vehicle. The integration between the engine and transmission is key, and Ford has done a commendable job ensuring they complement each other perfectly. The electronic controls for the transmission are smooth, and shifts are generally imperceptible under normal driving conditions, adding to the premium feel of the Expedition Max.

Towing and Payload Capabilities

One of the primary reasons people opt for an SUV like the 2017 Ford Expedition Max is its towing and payload capacity. And let me tell you, this big boy delivers! When properly equipped, the 2017 Expedition Max boasts an impressive maximum towing capacity of up to 9,200 pounds. That's enough muscle to tow a decent-sized travel trailer, a boat, or even a horse trailer. The 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, with its massive torque output, is the real hero here. That low-end grunt provides the necessary power to get heavy loads moving smoothly and maintain speed, especially on inclines. The engine's responsiveness means you won't feel like you're struggling to pull your load. In addition to towing, the Expedition Max also offers a substantial payload capacity. This refers to the maximum weight of passengers and cargo the vehicle can carry. While the exact payload capacity varies depending on the specific configuration (like engine, drivetrain, and installed options), it's generally in the range of 1,400 to 1,700 pounds. This means you can load up your family, gear, groceries, and still have plenty of capacity left. The extended wheelbase of the