While fuel economy may not be on your side, should you choose to purchase a 2012 Ford Expedition EL, this large-size SUV has much to offer and doesn’t disappoint. Additionally, with a starting MSRP of $40,250, potential consumers can feel comfortable that this SUV won’t break the bank. It’s also available for lease for a fairly steep $546 per month for 6 years (72 months) with 1.9% APR financing.

The exterior of the 2012 Ford Expedition EL really has not changed much through the years, since its induction to the Ford family in 1997, when it replaced the Bronco. The exterior lines are still minimal, but the SUV maintains an above average look with 4 doors.

Of course, with an automobile this big, the logical thing to think is that the engine is just as big and powerful. Consumers would be correct to assume that. The 2012 Ford Expedition EL gasconades an impressive 5.4-liter 3V single overhead camshaft V8 engine with FlexFuel. It also will provide nearly 90% of it’s torque capabilities at just 1,500 RPM. This alone, gives the Expedition EL an immensely powerful towing capacity. This beast also can claim a solid 310 horsepower, which helps to add to the overall power and utility of this SUV. The 6-speed automatic transmission distributes power and give the Expedition EL generate massive amounts of low-spectrum torque, like the 310 lbs./ft. of torque at 1,500 RPM. Furthermore, consumers can feel comfortable knowing that they can feed this monster E85 fuel.

With such a big SUV, comes a necessity for some type of roll prevention technology. Ford has infused the Expedition EL with AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, which applies brakes to individual wheels as needed and also adjusts engine power automatically as needed.

As for the interior, one of the complaints test drivers had was that the seats are not the most comfortable, and are actually quite firm. However, the interior cargo space, as you can probably imagine, is absolutely huge. You can easily fit 2 dogs and the family’s luggage and bags in the rear. The third row seating has a 60/40 fold split, which allows for even more cargo space, assuming you don’t have more than one third row passenger. This is only available on the XL EL and XLT EL models. Plus, for your first 6 months of ownership, Ford will generously include a free trial of Sirius XM satellite radio, so you and your family can forget about the uncomfortable seats.

And yes, the Ford Expedition EL is well equipped as far as safety is concerned. It comes with not only dual front driver and passenger airbags (as should be expected) but it also has a Safety Canopy System, which will protect the car from being crushed under its own weight, in the unlikely event that it does flip onto its roof. Side airbags in the front also protect the passenger and driver in the event of a roll or T-bone collision.

So, if you don’t mind in-town gas mileage of 16 MPG and uncomfortable seats, then go test drive a 2012 Ford Expedition EL today. You may just may be pleasantly surprised.