2025 Ford Expedition 4x4 vs 4x2 (2WD vs 4WD)

Shop Expedition Inventory Ford Expedition Research Hub Research Hub

If you’re considering a new 2025 Ford Expedition, one of the first choices you’ll need to make is whether to go with 4x4 or 4x2. From towing strength to off-road capability and fuel efficiency, this drivetrain decision affects how your SUV performs every day. Let’s break down the difference—and help you decide what’s right for your drive in West Texas.

What’s the Difference Between 4x2 and 4x4?

The Expedition is available with either rear-wheel drive (4x2) or four-wheel drive (4x4), depending on trim. The 4x4 system includes Ford’s advanced Touch-on-Demand 4-Auto mode, giving you confidence in challenging driving conditions.

4x2	Feature	4x4
4x2: Rear wheels only	Power Delivery	4x4: All four wheels when needed
4x2: Slightly better MPG	Efficiency	4x4: More traction, slightly lower MPG
4x2: Limited	Off-Road Capability	4x4: Excellent with off-road modes and locking diffs
4x2: City/highway	Best For	4x4: Mixed terrain, towing, rough weather

Which Expedition Trims Offer 4x4?	Do You Need 4WD in West Texas?
Here's how drivetrain availability breaks down across the 2025 Expedition lineup: Active: 4x2 or 4x4 Tremor: 4x4 only Platinum: 4x4 only King Ranch 4x4 only	For drivers in Abilene or similar parts of Texas, the answer depends on your lifestyle. If you mostly stick to city streets and highways, a 4x2 Expedition will get the job done and save a bit on fuel. But if you plan to tow, explore off the beaten path, or simply want extra confidence in rain or uneven terrain, 4x4 is the way to go. Tremor comes with 4WD standard and is purpose-built for rugged tasks, including hauling, or adventure driving.

Which Expedition Trims Offer 4x4?

Do You Need 4WD in West Texas?

Here's how drivetrain availability breaks down across the 2025 Expedition lineup:

Active: 4x2 or 4x4
Tremor: 4x4 only
Platinum: 4x4 only
King Ranch 4x4 only

For drivers in Abilene or similar parts of Texas, the answer depends on your lifestyle. If you mostly stick to city streets and highways, a 4x2 Expedition will get the job done and save a bit on fuel. But if you plan to tow, explore off the beaten path, or simply want extra confidence in rain or uneven terrain, 4x4 is the way to go.

Tremor comes with 4WD standard and is purpose-built for rugged tasks, including hauling, or adventure driving.

Final Thoughts & Recommendation

Choosing between 4x2 and 4x4 ultimately comes down to your priorities:

Want more traction, capability, and confidence? Go 4WD.
Want to save on gas and keep it simple for city driving? 4x2 works well.

Many higher Expedition trims come standard with 4WD, so your trim choice may guide the decision too.

Still unsure which drivetrain fits your needs?

Test drive both versions today at Arrow Ford in Abilene and feel the difference yourself.

View 2025 Expedition Inventory

May not represent actual vehicle. (Options, colors, trim and body style may vary)

Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained on this site, absolute accuracy cannot be guaranteed. This site, and all information and materials appearing on it, are presented to the user "as is" without warranty of any kind, either express or implied. All vehicles are subject to prior sale. Price does not include applicable tax, title, and license charges. ‡Vehicles shown at different locations are not currently in our inventory (Not in Stock) but can be made available to you at our location within a reasonable date from the time of your request, not to exceed one week.