Ford Expedition, Lincoln Aviator, More Auto Museums and Sleepers?
About this episode
A detailed review of the 2025 Ford Expedition and 2026 Lincoln Aviator highlights their features, performance, and design. The Expedition, based on the F-150, offers various trims with a rugged trimmer package, a powerful EcoBoost V6, and a spacious interior, though fuel economy could improve. The Lincoln Aviator impresses with luxury and comfort, featuring a smooth ride and advanced tech, but also faces criticism for complicated controls. Additionally, the episode explores sleeper cabs for long-haul trucks and unique auto museums worth visiting.
Big SUVs promise comfort and power, but where do they land on efficiency, tech, and day-to-day usability? We took the 2025 Ford Expedition Tremor and the 2026 Lincoln Aviator Black Label on extended drives to find out. From grille details and cabin storage to third-row realities and highway manners, we dig into what these family haulers do well and where they fall short.
The Expedition Tremor leans into body-on-frame muscle with a 3.5L high-output EcoBoost that churns out 440 hp and 510 lb-ft. It tows, it cruises, and it rides like a stretched limo, yet parking-lot pivots and fuel economy remind you how large it is. We break down pricing against the Chevy Suburban, GMC Yukon XL, and Toyota Sequoia, and talk honestly about the need for a hybrid solution that preserves torque without draining wallets.
Then we switch lanes to the Aviator, a unibody luxury SUV with a clean, tuxedo look and a plush Black Label interior. The twin-turbo 3.0L V6 delivers V8-like thrust while adaptive suspension keeps the cabin calm. We cover real-world mpg, third-row practicality, and why some steering-wheel controls and driver-monitoring prompts still distract more than they should. Consider this a straight-shooting guide to what matters when you’re choosing between truck-tough and luxury-smooth.
We also step into life on 18 wheels, comparing sleeper cabs from Peterbilt, Kenworth, Freightliner, Volvo, and International—highlighting comfort, customization, and the fuel-sipping tech that keeps drivers happy and fleets profitable. To round it out, we map a few winter-ready Texas car museums that deliver serious automotive inspiration, from Chaparral race legends to Americana-filled collections.
Enjoy the ride? Follow the show, share with a friend, and leave a quick rating—what would you pick for your next long haul: torque-heavy SUV or hybrid luxury?
Be sure to subscribe for more In Wheel Time Car Talk!
The Lupe' Tortilla RestaurantsLupe Tortilla in Katy, Texas
Gulf Coast Auto Shield
Paint protection, tint, and more!
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
---- -----
Want more In Wheel Time car talk any time?
In Wheel Time is now available on Audacy!
Just go to Audacy.com/InWheelTime where ever you are.
----- -----
Be sure to subscribe on your favorite podcast provider for the next episode of In Wheel Time Podcast and check out our live multiplatform broadcast every Saturday, 10a - 12nCT simulcasting on Audacy, YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Twitch and InWheelTime.com.
In Wheel Time Podcast can be heard on you mobile device from providers such as:
Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music Podcast, Spotify, SiriusXM Podcast, iHeartRadio podcast, TuneIn + Alexa, Podcast Addict, Castro, Castbox, YouTube Podcast and more on your mobile device.
Follow InWheelTime.com for the latest updates!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/InWheelTime
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inwheeltime/
https://www.youtube.com/inwheeltime
https://www.Facebook.com/InWheelTime
For more information about In Wheel Time Podcast, email us at
[email protected]
Ford Expedition
"Time now for this hour's car review. I had the opportunity to drive the 2025 Ford Expedition made in Louisville, Kentucky."
The 2025 Ford Expedition is a large SUV that can carry many passengers and cargo. It's built tough, similar to a pickup truck, making it good for towing and off-road driving.
The 2025 Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and towing capacity. It is built on a body-on-frame platform, which provides durability and off-road capability.
three-row vehicle
"...yes, this is a three-row vehicle. Sweeping, driver display..."
A three-row vehicle is a car that has three sets of seats, so it can hold a lot of people, like a family or a group of friends.
A three-row vehicle is designed to accommodate three rows of seating, allowing it to carry more passengers, typically up to seven or eight people.
EcoBoost
"...3.5 liter high output EcoBoost V6. 440 horsepower. Wow. 510 pound feet of torque..."
EcoBoost engines are Ford's way of making smaller engines that still have a lot of power. They use turbochargers to help them perform better while using less fuel.
EcoBoost is a line of turbocharged, direct-injection gasoline engines developed by Ford. These engines are designed to provide better fuel efficiency and performance compared to traditional engines of similar size.
10-speed automatic transmission
"...10 speed automatic transmission with a tow rating of 9,000 pounds max depending on how you got set up..."
A 10-speed automatic transmission is a type of car gearbox that can change gears automatically and has ten different gears to help the car run better and save fuel.
A 10-speed automatic transmission allows for smoother shifts and better fuel efficiency by providing more gear ratios. This means the engine can operate more efficiently at various speeds and loads.
torque
"...the power, not only in the horsepower but the torque. What could you use improvement? Obviously, fuel economy..."
Torque is how strong an engine is at moving things. It's what helps a car pull heavy loads or accelerate quickly from a stop.
Torque is a measure of rotational force, which in automotive terms refers to the engine's ability to do work. It is especially important for tasks like towing and acceleration from a stop.
horsepower
"...the power, not only in the horsepower but the torque. What could you use improvement? Obviously, fuel economy..."
Horsepower tells you how powerful an engine is. The higher the horsepower, the faster and more powerful the car can be.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement that indicates the power output of an engine. It is a critical factor in determining a vehicle's performance, including acceleration and top speed.
fuel economy
"...Obviously, fuel economy. I think this would be ripe for a hybrid. Or a diesel..."
Fuel economy tells you how far a car can go on a gallon of gas. Better fuel economy means you spend less money on fuel.
Fuel economy refers to the efficiency of a vehicle in terms of how far it can travel on a certain amount of fuel. It is typically measured in miles per gallon (MPG).
diesel
"...they've tried diesels in these things before. Chevy did it. They've all done it when they got this big and it would make sense..."
Diesel is a type of fuel used in some engines. Diesel engines are often more efficient and can pull heavier loads compared to regular gasoline engines.
Diesel refers to a type of fuel and engine that operates differently from gasoline engines. Diesel engines are known for their fuel efficiency and high torque, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications.
Ford F150S
"that's got 10 tractors on it, then maybe a diesel would work. But there again, you know, Ford does make diesel F-150s and 250s. They did. And I don't know what it would take to put a diesel in this, but that's body on frame. Another open can of worms because remember, when you change engines"
The Ford F-150 is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and is great for work or everyday driving. Some versions even have a diesel engine, which helps it pull bigger things like trailers or boats.
The Ford F-150 is a full-size pickup truck known for its versatility, power, and capability. It's a popular choice for both work and personal use, especially in configurations that include diesel engines for increased towing capacity and fuel efficiency.
body on frame
"but that's body on frame. Another open can of worms because remember, when you change engines in anything, then you get the EPA involved."
Body on frame means the main part of the car, called the body, is built on a strong frame. This is often used in bigger vehicles like trucks and SUVs to make them tough and easy to fix.
Body on frame is a vehicle construction method where the body is mounted on a separate frame. This design is common in trucks and SUVs, providing durability and ease of repair.
base trim price
"So here's the pricing for this. The base trim price for the trimmer is $83,945."
Base trim price is the lowest price for a car model. It doesn't include any extra features, so the price can go up if you want more options.
Base trim price is the starting price for a vehicle model without any additional features or options. This price can increase significantly with added features and packages.
Chevy Suburban
"Chevy Suburban, 61.5 is where it starts. The Yukon XL, which is the Chevy's other brother..."
The Chevy Suburban is a large SUV that can carry many passengers and has a lot of room for cargo. It's great for families or anyone who needs to transport a lot of stuff.
The Chevy Suburban is a full-size SUV known for its spacious interior and strong towing capabilities. It has been a popular choice for families and those needing extra cargo space.
Yukon XL
"The Yukon XL, which is the Chevy's other brother, that's 69.9. And we threw in the Toyota Sequoia..."
The Yukon XL is a big SUV from GMC that has more space than the regular Yukon. It's perfect for families or anyone needing extra room.
The GMC Yukon XL is a larger version of the Yukon, offering more space and similar features to the Chevy Suburban. It's designed for those who need extra room for passengers and cargo.
Toyota Sequoia
"And we threw in the Toyota Sequoia, although it's not quite as big. It starts at 62,425..."
The Toyota Sequoia is a large SUV that can fit a lot of people and gear, but it's not as big as some other SUVs like the Chevy Suburban.
The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV that offers a balance of comfort and capability, though it's slightly smaller than some competitors like the Suburban and Yukon XL.
Lincoln Aviator
"...ell you that next hour, I am going to review the Lincoln Aviator all wheel drive. I didn't see you have that one...."
The Lincoln Navigator is a large, fancy SUV that has a lot of room and nice features for passengers. It's great for families or anyone who wants a comfortable ride with lots of space.
The Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV known for its spacious interior, upscale features, and powerful performance. It is often praised for its comfort and technology, making it a popular choice among luxury SUV buyers.
Tesla Semi
"... a lot for the good things, though, but comparing semi truck sleepers comfort space features for life o..."
The Tesla Semi is a big electric truck that companies can use to transport goods. It's designed to save money on fuel and help the environment by not using gas.
The Tesla Semi is an all-electric truck designed for freight transport, boasting impressive range and performance. It aims to revolutionize the trucking industry with lower operating costs and reduced environmental impact.
Kenworth T680 Next Gen
"The next one is a Kenworth T680 Next Gen. It's a 76 inch sleeper. Fuel efficiency and comfort is what it's known for."
The Kenworth T680 Next Gen is a type of large truck designed for long-distance hauling. It's built to be comfortable and efficient, making it easier for drivers to spend long hours on the road.
The Kenworth T680 Next Gen is a modern semi-truck known for its fuel efficiency and comfort, featuring advanced technology and ergonomic design.
sleeper cab
"It's a 76 inch sleeper. Fuel efficiency and comfort is what it's known for."
A sleeper cab is a part of a truck that has a small bedroom area where the driver can sleep. It's important for long trips so drivers can rest safely.
A sleeper cab is a compartment in a truck that provides a space for the driver to rest or sleep, typically equipped with a bed and sometimes other amenities.
ergonomic interior design
"The pros are a quiet cab with excellent, excellent insulation. Ergonomic interior design, smart wheel controls for the digital dash."
Ergonomic interior design means that the inside of the truck is made to be comfortable and easy to use, helping the driver feel better during long drives.
Ergonomic interior design refers to the layout and features of a vehicle's interior that are optimized for comfort and ease of use, reducing strain on the driver.
Freightliner Cascadia
"...the next one is a Freightliner Cascadia. It's a 72 inch raised roof sleeper. It's best known for its fleet efficiency and reliability for the drivers."
The Freightliner Cascadia is a big truck used for transporting goods over long distances. It's designed to be fuel-efficient and has features that make it comfortable for drivers.
The Freightliner Cascadia is a popular heavy-duty truck designed for long-haul transportation. It is known for its aerodynamic design, which helps improve fuel efficiency, and offers various configurations to suit different fleet needs.
Volvo VNL860
"Next one is a Volvo VNL860. It's a 77 inch sleeper, smooth ride for driver comfort."
The Volvo VNL860 is a large truck made for long trips, offering a comfortable sleeping area for drivers and modern technology to make driving easier.
The Volvo VNL860 is a heavy-duty truck designed for long-haul transportation, featuring a spacious sleeper cab for driver comfort and various advanced technologies.
infotainment system
"advanced infotainment system and digital controls."
An infotainment system is a technology in cars that helps you listen to music, get directions, and connect your phone.
An infotainment system in vehicles combines entertainment and information functions, providing features like navigation, music, and connectivity.
classic car collection
"Now this is a private classic car and automobile collection. It's in a historic Ford dealership there with 40s to 50s vehicles and vintage signage."
A classic car collection is a group of older cars that people keep because they are special or interesting. These cars are usually at least 20 years old and are often in good condition or restored to look nice.
A classic car collection typically consists of vintage vehicles that are at least 20 years old and are often restored or preserved for their historical significance. These cars are cherished by enthusiasts and collectors for their design, engineering, and nostalgia.
Chaparral Racing Cars
"But what it's known for, the Chaparral Racing Car Gallery. Now they've got a lot of historic cars in there that were built by Jim Hall and Hap Sharp."
Chaparral Racing Cars are famous race cars created by Jim Hall. They are known for being very advanced for their time, especially in how they were designed to go fast and handle well on the track.
Chaparral Racing Cars were innovative vehicles designed by Jim Hall, known for their advanced aerodynamics and engineering. They played a significant role in motorsport history, particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, and are celebrated for their unique designs and performance.
vintage trucks
"They've got over 100 vehicles in there spanning hot rods, muscle cars and vintage trucks."
Vintage trucks are old pickup trucks that people like to collect because they remind them of the past. They can be interesting to look at and often have unique designs.
Vintage trucks refer to older pickup trucks that are often collected for their historical value, unique designs, and nostalgic appeal. These trucks can vary widely in age and style, often representing specific eras of automotive history.
hot rods
"They've got over 100 vehicles in there spanning hot rods, muscle cars and vintage trucks."
Hot rods are old cars that have been changed to go really fast. People often make them look cool and different from how they originally were.
Hot rods are modified vehicles, typically American cars from the 1920s to 1950s, that have been enhanced for performance and speed. They often feature powerful engines, customized bodywork, and unique styling.
muscle cars
"They've got over 100 vehicles in there spanning hot rods, muscle cars and vintage trucks."
Muscle cars are powerful cars that are built to go fast. They are usually American cars and are known for their strong engines and sporty looks.
Muscle cars are high-performance vehicles, typically American-made, that are known for their powerful engines and aggressive styling. They became popular in the 1960s and 1970s and are often associated with speed and performance.
trim levels
"Available trim levels, the Premier, the Reserve and the Black Label."
Trim levels are different versions of the same car that come with different features and styles. The Lincoln Aviator has several options to choose from, like Premier and Black Label, which offer different things.
Trim levels refer to different versions of a vehicle model that come with varying features, options, and price points. The Lincoln Aviator has several trim levels, including the Premier, Reserve, and Black Label, each offering unique features and amenities.
self-driving feature
"Self-driving feature, that needs improvement. I don't understand why you would have a self-driving feature that you have to keep your eyes on the road all the time."
A self-driving feature is a technology in cars that lets them drive themselves without you controlling them. However, you still need to pay attention and be ready to take control if something goes wrong.
A self-driving feature refers to technology that allows a vehicle to operate without direct human control. These systems often require the driver to remain attentive and ready to take over if necessary, which can lead to confusion about their functionality.
twin-turbo V6
"Three-liter twin-turbo V6, 400 horsepower, 415 pound-feet of torque, 10-speed automatic transmission with a tow rating of 5,000 pounds, pretty good."
A twin-turbo V6 engine is a type of car engine that has six cylinders and uses two turbochargers to make it more powerful. This helps the car go faster while still being efficient with fuel.
A twin-turbo V6 engine uses two turbochargers to increase the engine's power output and efficiency. This type of engine configuration is popular in performance vehicles for providing a good balance of power and fuel economy.
miles per gallon
"17 miles per gallon city is what it's rated, 25 on the highway for a combined of 20. I got 20.3 miles per gallon, over 506 miles."
Miles per gallon tells you how far a car can go on a gallon of gas. The higher the number, the better the car is at using fuel efficiently.
Miles per gallon (MPG) is a measure of fuel efficiency for vehicles, indicating how many miles a car can travel on one gallon of fuel. Higher MPG values generally indicate better fuel efficiency, which can lead to lower fuel costs over time.
hybrid
"How about a hybrid version of that? Why not?"
A hybrid car uses both a regular engine and an electric motor to help it run. This can save gas and be better for the environment.
A hybrid vehicle combines a conventional internal combustion engine with an electric propulsion system. This combination can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions compared to traditional gasoline-only vehicles.
Ford Explorer
"This is underpinned by Explorer parts. Ford Explorer is a unibody chassis."
The Ford Explorer is a popular SUV that has a roomy interior and is good for families. It has a design that helps it handle well on the road.
The Ford Explorer is a mid-size SUV known for its spacious interior and versatility. It's built on a unibody chassis, which contributes to its handling and ride quality.
unibody chassis
"Ford Explorer is a unibody chassis. So there is not a body on frame."
A unibody chassis means that the car's body and frame are made as one piece. This helps make the car lighter and can improve how it drives.
A unibody chassis is a construction technique where the body and frame of the vehicle are integrated into a single piece. This design typically offers better rigidity and weight savings compared to traditional body-on-frame designs.
adaptive suspension
"What I liked about the ride and handling, superb adaptive suspension. It was smooth, baby."
Adaptive suspension is a system that can change how the car's suspension feels while you're driving. It helps make the ride smoother or sportier depending on the situation.
Adaptive suspension systems adjust the shock absorber settings in real-time based on driving conditions, improving ride comfort and handling. This technology allows for a more responsive driving experience.
Acura Mdx
"... put the Lexus GX up against it for $64,735. The Acura MDX 51-8. Now remember now, we're talking about base..."
The Acura MDX is a spacious SUV that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's known for being dependable and has nice features that make driving more enjoyable.
The Acura MDX is a luxury midsize SUV that offers three rows of seating and a reputation for reliability. It combines performance with a comfortable ride and a suite of advanced safety features.
Volvo XC90
"Base price on the aviators, 52, 238. The Balbo XC90, also a competitor, $61,050. Wow."
The Volvo XC90 is a fancy family SUV that is designed to keep you and your passengers safe and comfortable. It has a lot of room inside and comes with cool technology to make driving easier.
The Volvo XC90 is a luxury midsize SUV that emphasizes safety, comfort, and Scandinavian design. It offers a spacious interior and advanced technology features, making it a strong competitor in the luxury SUV market.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.