(continued from the previous page)
Power, Capability, Fuel Efficiency
Completely new for 2011, the Ford Explorer has been winning over customers with
its improved on-road handling, impressive comfort and convenience technologies,
and fuel economy never before delivered by an SUV.
For the 2013 model year, Explorer Sport brings high-performance SUV power and
projected fuel economy of up to 16 mpg in city driving and 22 mpg on the highway
- anticipating 3 mpg better in the city and 2 mpg on the highway than the Jeep
Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango R/T 5.7-liter Hemi engines. It scores 3 mpg
higher in the city and 4 mpg higher on the highway than the Land Rover Range
Rover Sport.
"Explorer Sport makes no compromises," said Carl Widmann, vehicle engineering
manager. "By carefully beefing the chassis and suspension, precisely calibrating
the Terrain Management System and adding comfort and convenience features, we've
delivered an SUV that delivers great dynamics and performance - while towing up
to 5,000 pounds."
The Explorer Sport features a paddle-shifted six-speed SelectShift Automatic
transmission with a unique 3.16 to 1 final drive ratio to provide the balance of
responsive acceleration and economical low-rpm cruising for better fuel
efficiency.
The chassis also has been specially reinforced, making Explorer Sport stiffer
and improving its handling.
Explorer Sport also brings a solid-mounted electric power-assisted steering
(EPAS) rack with improved feel, providing more responsiveness to drivers both
on-road and off.
Ford's newest SUV comes standard with larger brakes for shorter stopping
distances and better performance while towing.
Explorer Sport also has received special terrain management settings for
tackling sandy, snowy, rutted mud and hill descent.
"Upgrading to Sport specification enabled us to maintain the standards of
traditional Explorer capability plus delivering the highest highway fuel
efficiency among gasoline-engine-powered, high-performance, three-row SUVs," Widmann said.
Comfort, Convenience, Connectivity
As the top of the Explorer line, Sport offers a robust array of standard and
optional customer-focused technologies that make driving more comfortable,
convenient and connected. These include:
* 4WD with Terrain Management System
* Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control
* 10-way power driver's seat with power recline and lumbar
* Six-way power passenger seat with recline and lumbar
* First-row heated seats
* Compass and exterior temperature display
* Rear view camera
* SYNC with MyFord Touch driver connect technology
* Sony Premium Audio System with HD Radio and 12 speakers
Explorer Sport can be tailored to individual preferences with the following
options as well:
* Active park assist
* Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert
* Inflatable rear seat belts
* 110-volt outlet
* PowerFold mirrors
* Intelligent access with Push-Button Start
* Remote Start
* Adjustable pedals with memory
* Dual-panel moonroof
* Power liftgate
* Class III trailer-towing package
Explorer Sport is manufactured at Ford's Chicago production facility. It will
arrive in dealerships later this year.
Ford Explorer Sport: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications