Competition is heating up in the sports utility market. With crossovers and minivans crowding the field, SUV makers have stepped up their game for 2013. Ford’s entry into the fray is the high-performance Explorer Sport.
Exterior
The 2013 Ford Explorer Sport combines a sassy exterior with solid performance and decent mileage. The redesigned exterior has blackout details and smooth diagonal lines that give it the appearance of a sports car. The low-gloss gray grille, special 20-inch wheels and other crisp details make the Sport unique among SUVs.
Performance
Ford has beefed up performance in the Sport to match its jaunty exterior. Its V-6 3.5 Liter engine is twin turbocharged to pump out 350 horsepower. An EcoBoost 2.0 Liter engine is also available. The engine is paired with Ford’s Terrain Management System, power-assisted steering rack and improved suspension for a smooth ride and responsive handling. The Sport is rated at a respectable 17 miles per gallon in town and 24 miles per gallon out on the road without the EcoBoost feature. The I-4 Ecoboost engine is rated at 20 city/28 highway. That’s up to four miles per gallon better than comparable vehicles from Dodge and Jeep.
Interior
The interior has an impressive array of standard features and style details. Dual zone automatic and rear climate control is standard, as is an air filtration system. Electric features include an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, power windows and door locks, dome lights in all three rows of seating and four 12 volt power jacks. Cruise control is also standard. The Sport is equipped with MyFord Touch. This all-in-one system incorporates touchscreens, USB ports, WIFI, audio/video jacks, voice-activation and other features in one module. Interior style details include leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated two-tone leather-trimmed bucket seats in the front row. Both front seats are adjustable. The back two rows fold flat for increased cargo capacity.
Safety
A rear-view camera and reverse sensing system are standard equipment. AdvanceTrac stability system, curve control and traction control help keep the SUV steady in adverse driving conditions. The airbag array includes front seat and side curtains along with front seat knee bags. Other security features include standard remote keyless entry, tire pressure monitoring system and perimeter alarm.
Options
Along with its myriad standard features, there are a host of options available. These include a power lift gate, remote start system, power-adjust control pedals, moon roof, a trailer tow package and equipment upgrade package. Other options include a Blind Spot Information System, Active Park Assist, inflatable back safety belts and a 110 Volt outlet. The 2013 Ford Explorer Sport has enough amenities to please even the most discerning SUV customer. Its improved handling, big cargo space and good mileage make it an ideal choice for the family on the go. There are numerous websites that will help narrow down the best deal. Learn about TrueCar pricing online to find the best price in your area for the Sport or any other new or used vehicle.