Rumor is that Ford is planning on bringing back another long-forgotten name. This time around we are poised to see the newly refreshed 2023 Ford Excursion. The Excursion has been forgotten and discontinued for over a decade. It was last produced in 2005 and now Ford is trying to give it new life. It was mainly based on the F-250 and its body design but reimagined as an SUV. Since it has been 17 years since the last sight of this vehicle, we don’t expect small changes to it.
This probably means that Ford will build the project from scratch. In translation, this should give us new architecture, new design, new look, new technology, and definitely an all-new powertrain lineup. Some even speculate that the 2023 Ford Excursion could be all-electric or at least hybrid as standard. Similar to what Ford has done with their Maverick truck. This is a full-size SUV which means it will directly compete with Wagoneer and Tahoe RST. It might even be longer than it previously was.
Whichever is the case, let us jump into the review and see what kind of design we can expect with the new Excursion.
Huge and Modern Interior
We already mentioned that the 2023 Ford Excursion is one of the largest SUVs in the category. This means a huge cabin and a ridiculous amount of cargo space. But let us not forget that it has three rows of seats. This means that they should be detachable and foldable to allow for said cargo space. Some manufacturers forget about legroom and headspace for the back rows. Hopefully, Ford takes notes and pays attention by making enough legroom so it isn’t too cramped in the back. Seats are another point of interest for us. Ford should make them padded and cushioned, this will ensure comfort even on the longest rides.
There are fans of racing car seats, but we don’t believe something like that would do the trick in an SUV. There is usually leather, suede, and fabric to choose from as far as materials are concerned. Contrast stitching could be added to increase the overall style of the interior. We all know how Ford likes to copy designs from already existing vehicles under their flag.
So it wouldn’t come as a surprise if the 2023 Ford Excursion’s interior resembled that of the F-250. It was previously based on it so why not once again. Expect to see dual-zone air conditioning. Vinyl flooring and even a remote start. The infotainment system could be 14 inches in size. This is due to the fact that it has three rows of seats and we want everyone to be able to join in on the fun. Some chrome accents wouldn’t hurt in the cabin
Lining the instrument panel and some other details in chrome or some other metal increases luxury greatly. Wagoneer has wooden details so there is one more idea for Ford to give some thought to. In a fierce competition like that, Ford has to make the interior functional, practical, and luxurious.
With three rows you can easily seat up to eight people. Of course, you can pull out a row or two, or fold them to get extra cargo space in order to haul furniture or something of similar size. Adding a panoramic roof would add to some breathtaking moments while driving along on a starry night. Ambient light should also be included, this feature is quite popular nowadays and is not going to cost too much.
Digital dashboards are becoming standard nowadays so expect to see one. It just remains to be seen whether Ford puts in a driver safety system. Artificial intelligence software like these can save the lives of people inside and outside the vehicle. Collision alert, pedestrian detection, and lane change alert are just some of the features that can make your life much easier.
2023 Ford Excursion Design
We expect the overall dimensions of the Excursion to remain pretty much the same. Previously it was measured at 137 inches long, while currently, the Chevy Suburban is the longest at 134 inches long. The 2023 Ford Excursion will have a wheelbase of 140 inches and expect it to borrow some stuff from the already mentioned F-250. SUV style changed over the years so expect it to be sleeker, with a less blocky design, and more angles and curves. This way it has a more aerodynamic and ergonomic look which in return improves fuel economy.
Wheels are probably going to be between 20 and 22 inches. Lightweight alloys to save some weight on a huge SUV. Excursions probably feature a huge front grille with mesh to let air under the hood in order to keep things cool. Ford lettering is a must at this point on the front. Huge sideway mirrors are probably due to the extreme length of the SUV. Adjustable air suspension is a must on a vehicle this size, also improved chassis and base to hold the extra weight.
Engine Options
The previous version was available with a diesel engine exclusively. Since they might base the 2023 Ford Excursion on an F-250 there should be a diesel option once again. Using the same engine makes sense, it is a 7.3 liter V8 gasoline engine that produces 430 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque.
There is also a possibility of a 6.7 liter V8 turbo diesel but specs are still not official. Obviously, there is the possibility of an all-electric variant or at least a hybrid, which would be great. Ford has experience with all-electric vehicles and with great success.
Is Ford Coming Back with the Excursion?
We could see it on the road in late 2022 perhaps early 2023. Pandemic is known to change due dates and push them further away from the planned release.
Price is speculated to be close to $50000, for the basic edition of the course. Extra amenities and better technology will cost you a bit extra.