Help me find the right trim!

[ss98]

Hi all,

Long story not so short -

Drove a Max (Rwd) XLT as a rental for 2K miles - loved it!

Then bought a new '24 Platinum (4wd, non-max) with 22 inch wheels and tow package. But I just couldn't deal with its numb steering feel, lack of confidence - double checked tire pressure, alignment. I had to let it go with a heavy heart.

It's very strange - what went wrong? Max vs non-max weight distribution difference? 22" vs 18" wheels? Rwd vs 4wd? lemon?

Been driving Camaros and Corvettes for past 20 years as my main ride - I should be okay with a bit stiffer suspension, but I couldn't deal with the disconnect I felt from the steering. At the same time, we also bought an Explorer ST (4wd) - simply love it.

Anyway, I still need to find the right Expy for me. Local dealers have some '24 Expys and Navigators (4x4) on sale. Please help me out - I can't mess it up this time! A short test drive can't solve this mystery. So I'm betting on you guys. Thanks so much!

 

[dlcorbett]

Platinum expys(navigators) have ccd or adaptive suspension. Did you ever put your truck in sport? To me, you can feel the difference in handling, though steering feel is still somewhat vague. Xlts do not have this. Ccd makes the ride somewhat floaty and soft compared to base suspension, and the steering ferls a bit more vague and loose as a result. Some people prefer the connected feel of the base suspension, though the ccd usually has better insulation from the road. Also, the max feels bigger than non max, but more stable due to weight and longer wheelbase. If you like the xlt and connected feel of a sporty car, find a limited trim without ccd (however, many on here complain about their 22in wheels limited being too harsh without ccd). Me personally, I did feel the non ccd truck felt more planted and handled better, but the ccd even with larger wheels rides holistically better, and sport mode mimics the ride and handling about 90%.

 

[DieselMonk]

All Expeditions are different. Depends on HD trailer tow, having CCD or not, rim size, sway bars and shock differences, max vs non max. All makes a difference in ride.

My short Expedition Stealth Performance Package, non CCD, with HD trailer tow definitely rides quite stiff and get good steering wheel response. It similar like a Explorer ST or my GT500. The CCD could definitly give you a disconnected feel. Same with older air suspensions.
Try something non CCD.

 

[HILLY]

I think every variation is different based on wheelbase and equipment level.

I have had two of the SWB Expeditions (4x4) with HD tow now. I have found the ride and handling to my liking, and even when I recently upgraded to Bilstein 5100's, I didn't find much of a ride quality change as some others have noted to their displeasure (too firm). In fact, I love it even more.

I had rented a LWB (Max) Expedition about a year ago and I almost didn't like the way the truck rode and drove. It was overly soft and "wallow-y". I can't remember if it even had HD tow (pretty sure it didn't as it was a rental). I kept feeling like it was going to tip over when doing lane changes on the highway. In the end, it made me pretty happy that I didn't spring for the Max. I was however surprised how different it felt. Almost as if it wasn't even the same brand of car.

So I'm surprised you feel like there is such a steering disconnect with the the combo you bought and sold. I've had years of experience in other European SUVs, and don't find the steering on mine bad at all while keeping in mind it is a full-size SUV. Try and test drive another if you can and see if it nets the same result. Otherwise you may need to find something else if pure size is not an issue (X7, GLS, Q7).

 

[99WhiteC5Coupe]

Hi all,

Long story not so short -

Drove a Max (Rwd) XLT as a rental for 2K miles - loved it!

Then bought a new '24 Platinum (4wd, non-max) with 22 inch wheels and tow package. But I just couldn't deal with its numb steering feel, lack of confidence - double checked tire pressure, alignment. I had to let it go with a heavy heart.

It's very strange - what went wrong? Max vs non-max weight distribution difference? 22" vs 18" wheels? Rwd vs 4wd? lemon?

Been driving Camaros and Corvettes for past 20 years as my main ride - I should be okay with a bit stiffer suspension, but I couldn't deal with the disconnect I felt from the steering. At the same time, we also bought an Explorer ST (4wd) - simply love it.

Anyway, I still need to find the right Expy for me. Local dealers have some '24 Expys and Navigators (4x4) on sale. Please help me out - I can't mess it up this time! A short test drive can't solve this mystery. So I'm betting on you guys. Thanks so much!

Did you test drive the 2024 Platinum SWB prior to purchase? Why did you buy it if you didn’t like how it drove?

The forum cannot find a vehicle for you - you will have to test drive various ones and determine what you like (such as the Expedition long wheel base RWD).

 

[Christina S]

My '24 Plat non Max has CCD with 22" wheels and tow package. I only drive in normal mode. CCD definitely helps cushion the ride. The ride is floaty and when taking a turn at an intersection I feel the entire vehicle lean. I don't mind this because the trade off is pure comfort especially on the interstate/highway.

 

[DieselMonk]

Not Al CCD’s are the same supposedly. The CCD for the SPP should have a more sporty tune.

 

[Southpawhd]

I have a ‘24 Limited Max, Stealth appearance package, with CCD. Coming from a ‘22 Max XLT w/o the CCD, I can say the CCD is amazing. I test drove several trucks (including Sierra Denalis) before buying and the Limitsd Expy has a great suspension and it’s a joy to drive.

 

[Tiger Bob]

I have an '18 Max Platinum HDTow with 22" wheels , ccd and 105 K. Still drives like a dream (a good dream) both Hwy and city. I always drive in Normal. Had a Yukon Denali before....no comparison. Whatever my current equipment package is I have currently, I'm not changing.