Ford Expedition

If mousetraps were 17 feet long, one might characterize the Expedition as Ford's better mousetrap.Since its introduction three years ago, Ford's biggest sport-utility vehicle has been a resounding sales success.The assembly plant in Wayne, Michigan, has been running full steam to meet the demand for the Expedition and its luxurious near-twin, the Lincoln Navigator.

Why is the Expedition so successful? The reasons may go beyond the current enthusiasm for large sport-utilities.The Expedition is selling like hot cakes at least partly because it does everything it was designed to do and it does it well.Its good looks certainly don't hurt, either.

With demand running high, Ford has wisely made only evolutionary changes for 1999.Both engines get more power -- without hurting EPA fuel economy ratings.The Expedition has been certified for 1999 as a low-emissions vehicle, or LEV, in states that have adopted California's tougher emissions regulations.

A new front fascia, grille and bumper system with fog lamps incorporated into the lower valence give the Expedition a fresh look.And the base model comes with more standard equipment; even though the base price has gone up, this move actually lowers many out-the-door prices.