SUV on Steroids: Ford's new Explorer Sport is ready to play

By MUMLOLOUK payday loans

16 April 2012

SUV on Steroids: Ford's new Explorer Sport is ready to play

Words by Jose Carlo Roberto R. Sapera | Photos courtesy of Ford Motor Company
 
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If you're a fan of Ford's all-new Explorer, here's something that will tickle your fancy. Meet the blue oval brand's latest SUV on steroids, the all-new Explorer Sport - Ford's answer to the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 and Dodge Durango R/T. 
 
A turbocharged 3.5 liter EcoBoost V6 blasts out 350 horses and 475 Nm under the hood, which is 60 hp and 130 Nm more than the standard V6. The steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifts give you full control over the six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission while you blast into oblivion. The engineers at Ford also modified the chassis and suspension to cope with the extra power, and upgraded the brakes with larger and thicker rotors so that it'll hopefully stop before you unwittingly hit a wall.
 
To further emphasize the new variant's “sporting” nature, designers have toned down the glittery chrome aesthetics to emphasize on the variant’s brawny attitude. The new vehicle wears a grey mesh grill with ebony black horizontal bars, while the roof rack rails, side mirror caps, and tail gate garnish receive a flat-black treatment. The sculpted, brusque design is accented by eye-catching ten-spoke black and silver 20-inch alloy wheels, complete with the word “Sport” engraved on the lip for distinction.  
 
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The Explorer Sport's interior was likewise treated with some contemporary touches for a more active feel. Faux wood on the dashboard and doors have been replaced by black appliqués. New stitching on the steering wheel and seats add an athletic atmosphere. As you'd expect, the Explorer Sport is fully-loaded with gizmos such as SYNC with MyFordTouch, an engine start-stop button, inflatable rear seat belts, four-wheel drive with Terrain Management System, Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert, dual panoramic sunroofs, rear view camera, and a Sony Premium Audio System. 
 
Wondering if this will be sold here? As of the moment, there are no indications of the Explorer Sport coming to our shores, even though EcoBoost technology itself already has. Considering the high demand for anything Explorer, though, the possibility is not unlikely.
 
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