Excursion may get extended lease on life


By Ed Garsten / The Detroit News



Bashed as a gargantuan gas hog, dubbed the "Ford Valdez" by environmentalists and derided as a menace to motorists driving anything smaller than a semi-truck, the Ford Excursion SUV was condemned to the scrap heap at the end of 2004 model year.

But thanks to sales incentives, a more fuel-efficient diesel engine and a core of loyal customers, Ford Motor Co. may be ready to offer the Excursion a temporary reprieve.

"Since there continues to be a viable market for the product, we are taking a second look at its production schedule," Ford spokeswoman Susan Krusel said.

It's likely Ford will continue to build the Excursion -- launched in 2000 -- for the 2005 and 2006 model year and then introduce a longer version of the current Expedition SUV.

Local Ford dealers say the Excursion is a niche vehicle with a loyal following. Don Sparks, 45, a Shelby Township electrical contractor, bought his second Excursion, a 2004, for its combination of brawn and, ironically, fuel economy.

"With the new diesel, I get close to 18 miles a gallon pulling a trailer," Sparks said. The Sierra Club's Daniel Becker isn't sold on the improvements in fuel economy and emissions a diesel-powered Excursion offers.

"A diesel version of the Valdez is a bad sequel to a bad movie," Becker said.



well i think that the ex is a pretty nice vehicle and practicle to those with big families. i was suprised to see the 18 mpg even with the diesel, but that is awesome for a vehicle of that size. my bronco is lucky to get 10-12 mpg...

hope ford keeps it going...

 

Thanks for sharing.

It is, however, somewhat old news. But thanks anyway!

 

i looked through the threads and saw nothing posted so i thought i would put it in there blue oval news didnt post it till the 28th of october, so i just though all you excursion owners/fans would like to hear it....

talk to you all later

-tim