Ford Explorer Sport Bringing Twin-Turbo, 350hp V6 to SUV World

Ford has just announced the Explorer Sport, which will fill a high performance niche in the Ford SUV lineup. 

The Explorer Sport is powered by the same 3.5 liter, twin-turbo, Ecoboost V6 from the current Ford Taurus SHO. Power is down slightly from the Taurus SHO to 350hp but the same 350lb-ft of torque. All models come with all-wheel drive, and a six-speed automatic transmission. Ford also improved the suspension by increasing damping by 20% and spring rates by 10%. It will tow 5,000lbs. 

It is rated at 16mpg city and 22mpg highway. Ford claims that this is better than its competitors the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Durango R/T with the 5.7l Hemi V8, and Land Rover Range Rover Sport. However, all of those vehicles make power power than the Ford. The Jeep and Dodge both have 360hp, and the Land Rover has 375hp. 

To differentiate the Explorer Sport on the outside, the truck as 20in wheels and blacked-out headlight surround and tail light surround, mirror covers and rear bumper trim. The grill is painted gray with a deeper front bumper to suck in more air. There are also Sport and Ecoboost badges. 

Inside, the trucks get leather seats, model-specific steering wheel, Sport-logo floor mats and illuminated scuff plates. 

The Explorer Sport comes standard with 4WD with Terrain Management System, dual-zone, automatic climate control, ten-way power, heated driver’s seat, compass and exterior temperature display, rear view camera, SYNC with MyFord Touch and Sony stereo with HD radio and 12 speakers. It is available in four colors: Ruby Red Metallic Clearcoat, White Platinum Metallic Tri-Coat, Tuxedo Black Metallic and Ingot Silver Metallic  

Optional equipment includes: park assist, blind spot assist, folding mirrors, remote start, adjustable pedals, dual-panel moonroof, power rear hatch and tow package. 

The Explorer Sport will be available in the fall. Ford did not disclose a price. It will be built at the Ford factory in Chicago, Illinois. 

Ford released a video with the reveal that you can watch below.