Ford Explorer Sport debuts as turbocharged 2013 line-up addition

Ford will be offering the Explorer in an SHO-like high-performance variant called the Explorer Sport for 2013. Bolted to the engine bay will be the same twin-turbo 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 found in the Taurus SHO and Lincoln MKS, among other models.

Although it makes the least power of the Ecoboost models, 350 hp is serious pony power. The speculated torque figure tips the scales at 475 Nm.

Ford’s meaner Explorer is now claimed to tow up to 2270 kg, while projected fuel economy numbers are 14.7 l/100km in the city and 10.7 l/100 km for the highway. A beefed up chassis, a faster ratio for its electric steering system, a unique 3.16:1 final drive ratio and larger brakes add true grit to that sporting intention. There are also paddles to shift the six-speed automatic transmission and special settings for the Explorer’s Terrain Management System.

To distinguish the Sport from its other Explorer siblings, Ford designers have given it black-themed highlights. The Sport gets blacked-out lighting elements, roof rails, side mirrors, grille, lower front fascia and wheel faces. The interiors come embellished with Charcoal Black leather seating, with or without contrasting inserts, and special stitching on the seats and steering wheel.

Pricing details are yet to be announced but it is certain that the Explorer Sport will exceed the Explorer Limited’s and cross the Dhs 200,000 figure in the UAE if it is ever launched in the UAE, after it goes on sale in the U.S. a little later this year.