Thought this would be interesting: It's an extract of a Orlando Ford dealers meeting as reported in the "Blue Oval News":

The 2003 Expedition

The 2003 Expedition looks like a big explorer right down to the independent rear suspension with the "hole on the frame". While the interior of the Explorer lacks personality to me, the 2003 Expedition has refined this hard and angular look so that it looks better. The power third seat that folds down flat is really slick, everyone will like it.

 

New expy

 

Wow! That thing must really go fast in reverse to need a bug shield on the rear. : )
Actually, I delayed purchasing a 2002 in anticipation of the early release of the redesigned 2003. The independent rear suspension and foldaway third seat is a big plus.
Any idea when the 2003's will be released. I've heard early spring, but nothing definite.

 

I am glad I have a 99 Expy 5.4. I love the way my looks.

I personally dont like the new look too much
like an Explorer, dont get me wrong there is nothing wrong with an Explorer.

I just like the fact that a EXPY had its own looks and style.

The softer suspension is nice, but I wish FORD would
beef up it engine with more hp & torq.

Something like NAVI or CADDY ESC around 300ponies would be nice.

Our Expy's are craving for more hp power especailly with all that weight nearly 6000pounds


When are they going to make the project THUNDER

 

I don't think with todays economy and Ford's red ink that the "Thunder" is going to stay much more than a concept. It'd be great if Ford would have an "SVT" parts catalog of sorts specific to the Expy. Too many soccer moms driving these beasts for them to show any interest like they did with the "Lightning and Harley Davidson" F150's. I wish Ford had made the 3rd seat frame out of aircraft aluminum or something else light. Taking it in and out sucks.

 

Ford was quoted somewhere (I know I read it) that the "Thunder" concept was just that and there was never and is not any plan to put one into production.

Build you're own! Hello Holley

 

I saw a picture of a white EB Expy about two weeks ago, and at first i nearly tossed my cookies. I think the current models are some of the best looking SUVs out there...but the new model is definately like the 02 exploder. Not my choice, but it'll still sell like the current one.

Bambino

 

S76DRVR I agree with you it is a pain to take out the third seat
and I always find myself not even using the third seat.
Behind the third seat there is very limited space for grocerys etc.

Familyride. I am saving for the MAGNACHARGER I have do some research so far it is the best SC for the price and a 3yr warranty.

I just wish SVT would do the whole package from factory for our EXPY. Supercharger, Suspension, Transmission, Headers, Exhaust, Throttle Body just like the Lightnings and new HD.

It would nice to go to the dealer and just buy the damin
thing already hooked up and blownin.

 

Here's another for ya! I'm also looking to get some spy shots hopefully soon.

 

I just heard that they are making a 2003 thunder here's the link http://www.bonforums.com/sales/naias_2002dst.htm
and here's that pic that was just posted, but its with the caption.

 

It sure looks alot different than the earlier photo. If the last pic is accurate, then it might not look so bad after all. Like how they softened the bumper fascia. Now all that is needed is 350hp, DVD player and 20mpg. I can dream can't I?

 

I wish they'd leave the back raised portion of the hood open, kinda like a cowl induction. Windsheild appears to have more of a dramatic slope. Be great if it is a "Thunder" with the EB add on's and available in one color without offset trim. Drop the Intech Motor in, bump it up and smoke the GM products.

 

wow, that looks alot better than the first pics. the grille looks smaller,and it just looks like it flows better. post some more pics if ya got any.

 

The last picture looks more like a EB Explorer! No way is that a Expy! Let's get accurate pics folks!!!

 

I like the clear headlights like the 2002? Ranger. Someone in my apartment has a new ranger with the clear headlights. They still have the amber turn signals but at least it is a step in the right direction.