Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport. This isn't your average family SUV; it's got a bit of an edge. We're going to cover everything you need to know, from its performance and features to its overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport

The 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is a performance-oriented version of the popular Ford Explorer SUV. It sets itself apart with a more powerful engine, sport-tuned suspension, and distinctive styling cues. This model year marked a sweet spot for the Explorer, offering a blend of modern technology and reliable performance. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that can handle daily duties and still provide a fun driving experience, the 2017 Explorer Sport is definitely worth considering. It caters to those who want a bit more oomph than the standard Explorer, without sacrificing practicality. The Sport trim enhances the Explorer's appeal, making it a standout choice in a crowded segment. Ford aimed to create an SUV that could satisfy both the need for family-friendly space and the desire for spirited driving. The result is a vehicle that balances these competing demands quite well. The 2017 Explorer Sport is not just about power; it also includes a range of features that enhance comfort, convenience, and safety. From its well-appointed interior to its advanced driver-assistance systems, this SUV offers a comprehensive package. It's designed to appeal to buyers who appreciate attention to detail and expect a high level of refinement. The exterior styling of the Sport trim also contributes to its unique identity, with its bold grille, unique wheels, and other sporty accents. These visual cues signal that this is not your typical Explorer. The 2017 model year also benefits from Ford's ongoing improvements to the Explorer platform, ensuring that it remains competitive against newer rivals. In summary, the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is a compelling option for those seeking a mid-size SUV with a sporty edge, offering a combination of performance, features, and style that sets it apart from the crowd. Keep reading to find out all the details.

Performance and Engine

Let's talk power! The heart of the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is its 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine. This bad boy churns out an impressive 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. That's a significant jump from the base Explorer's engine, and it makes a noticeable difference in acceleration and overall driving experience. The EcoBoost engine uses turbocharging to deliver that extra power, providing strong performance across the rev range. This means you'll have plenty of grunt for merging onto the highway, passing other cars, or towing a trailer. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and efficiently. It also features paddle shifters, allowing you to take manual control of gear changes for a more engaging driving experience. The Sport trim also includes a sport-tuned suspension, which helps to improve handling and reduce body roll. This makes the Explorer Sport feel more planted and responsive on the road, especially when cornering. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, giving you confidence and control. Ford's Terrain Management System allows you to select different driving modes to optimize performance for various surfaces, such as snow, sand, or mud. The Explorer Sport's performance credentials extend beyond just straight-line speed. It also offers decent towing capacity, making it a practical choice for families who need to haul trailers or boats. The combination of power, handling, and versatility makes the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport a well-rounded performer. It's an SUV that can handle daily commutes, weekend adventures, and everything in between with ease. Whether you're looking for a vehicle that's fun to drive or one that can tackle a variety of tasks, the Explorer Sport delivers on both fronts. The EcoBoost engine is a standout feature, providing a level of performance that's rare in this segment. Overall, the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport's performance and engine are major selling points, offering a compelling blend of power, handling, and versatility that sets it apart from other SUVs in its class.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport, you'll find a well-appointed and comfortable cabin. The interior design is functional and stylish, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The Sport trim includes unique interior accents, such as leather upholstery with red stitching, giving it a sporty and upscale feel. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives. They're also heated and cooled, adding to the overall comfort. The second-row seats offer plenty of legroom and headroom, making them suitable for adults. The third-row seats are best suited for children or smaller adults, but they do provide extra seating when needed. The Explorer Sport comes standard with a range of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, and a premium sound system. The infotainment system is easy to use and includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. Other notable features include a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert, which help to improve safety and convenience. The Explorer Sport also offers a power liftgate, making it easy to load and unload cargo. The cargo area is spacious, providing plenty of room for groceries, luggage, or sports equipment. With the third-row seats folded down, the cargo area expands even further. The interior of the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is designed to provide a comfortable and convenient experience for both drivers and passengers. It's a space where you can relax and enjoy the ride, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip. The combination of quality materials, thoughtful design, and a wide range of features makes the Explorer Sport a standout in its class. Ford has paid attention to detail, ensuring that the interior is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. From the comfortable seats to the intuitive infotainment system, the Explorer Sport's interior is designed to enhance the overall driving experience. It's a place where you'll feel at home, no matter where the road takes you. The high-quality materials and attention to detail make the cabin a pleasant place to be. Overall, the interior and features of the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport are impressive, offering a combination of comfort, convenience, and technology that enhances the overall driving experience.

Technology and Safety

The 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is packed with technology and safety features designed to keep you connected and protected on the road. The centerpiece of the technology offerings is the SYNC 3 infotainment system. This system features an 8-inch touchscreen display that is responsive and easy to use. It includes voice control, allowing you to make calls, send texts, and control music without taking your hands off the wheel. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility are standard, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone with the infotainment system. This gives you access to your favorite apps, music, and navigation services. The Explorer Sport also comes with a premium sound system, providing excellent audio quality for your listening pleasure. On the safety front, the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is equipped with a comprehensive suite of features. These include anti-lock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. Advanced safety technologies include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. These systems help to alert you to potential hazards and can even take corrective action to prevent accidents. The Explorer Sport also offers adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. This feature can be particularly useful on long highway drives. A rearview camera is standard, making it easier to park and maneuver in tight spaces. The Explorer Sport also offers a 360-degree camera system, which provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle and its surroundings. This can be extremely helpful when navigating in crowded areas or off-road. Ford has prioritized safety in the design of the 2017 Explorer Sport, and it shows. The combination of advanced technology and robust safety features makes this SUV a safe and reliable choice for families. The available safety technologies offer peace of mind. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip, you can feel confident that the Explorer Sport is equipped to protect you and your passengers. Overall, the technology and safety features of the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport are impressive, offering a combination of connectivity, convenience, and protection that enhances the overall driving experience.

Driving Experience

Behind the wheel of the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport, you'll find a driving experience that is both engaging and comfortable. The sport-tuned suspension provides a firmer ride than the standard Explorer, but it's not harsh or uncomfortable. The handling is responsive, and the Explorer Sport feels surprisingly agile for its size. The steering is well-weighted and provides good feedback, allowing you to feel connected to the road. The EcoBoost engine delivers strong acceleration, making it easy to merge onto the highway or pass other cars. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently, and the paddle shifters allow you to take manual control of gear changes when desired. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, giving you confidence and control. The Explorer Sport is also relatively quiet inside, with minimal road noise and wind noise. This makes it a comfortable vehicle for long drives. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on extended trips. The visibility is good, thanks to the large windows and high seating position. The Explorer Sport is also easy to maneuver in tight spaces, thanks to its responsive steering and available parking sensors. Overall, the driving experience of the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is positive. It's a vehicle that is both fun to drive and comfortable to live with. The combination of power, handling, and refinement makes it a standout in its class. Ford has done a good job of balancing sportiness and practicality, creating an SUV that is both enjoyable and functional. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or embarking on a road trip, the Explorer Sport provides a satisfying driving experience. The responsive handling and powerful engine make it fun to drive. It's a vehicle that you'll look forward to driving every day. Overall, the driving experience of the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is a major selling point, offering a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and refinement that sets it apart from other SUVs in its class.

Conclusion

So, what's the final verdict on the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport? It's a solid choice for anyone looking for a mid-size SUV with a sporty edge. The powerful EcoBoost engine, sport-tuned suspension, and distinctive styling make it stand out from the crowd. The interior is comfortable and well-equipped, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The technology and safety features are comprehensive, providing peace of mind on the road. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, the performance benefits are worth considering. The 2017 Ford Explorer Sport offers a compelling blend of performance, features, and style that is hard to beat. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that can handle daily duties and still provide a fun driving experience, the Explorer Sport is definitely worth a look. It's a vehicle that is both practical and enjoyable, making it a great choice for families and individuals alike. Ford has done a good job of creating an SUV that balances performance and practicality, and the 2017 Explorer Sport is a testament to that. It's a vehicle that you can be proud to own and drive. The 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is a well-rounded SUV. Overall, the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is a top contender in the mid-size SUV segment, offering a combination of performance, features, and style that sets it apart from the competition.