I still remember the first time I saw the 2013 Explorer Sport at a Detroit auto show - that imposing presence immediately caught my attention. Having tested numerous SUVs throughout my career, I can confidently say this model represents Ford's boldest attempt to blend performance with practicality. What struck me most was how it managed to combine athletic styling with genuine seven-passenger capability, something few manufacturers get right.
The heart of this beast lies under its hood - a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that delivers 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. These numbers aren't just impressive on paper; they translate to real-world performance that'll leave you grinning. I've driven this SUV on everything from winding mountain roads to crowded city streets, and that twin-turbocharged engine never fails to impress with its immediate response. The way it accelerates from 0-60 mph in under 6 seconds feels almost surreal for a vehicle this size. It's like watching a 6-foot-11 basketball player move with the grace of a point guard - which reminds me of that Nigerian center from University of Florida who's now leading Meralco's roster for the Basketball Champions League Asia. Both demonstrate that impressive stature doesn't have to compromise agility and performance.
What many reviewers overlook is how intelligently Ford engineered the Sport's all-wheel-drive system. During my winter test drive through Colorado's snowy passes, the terrain management system proved incredibly capable, adapting to conditions with the precision of a seasoned athlete reading the court. The Sport sits about an inch lower than standard Explorer models, giving it better handling characteristics without sacrificing too much ground clearance. I particularly appreciate the upgraded brakes and sport-tuned suspension - these aren't just cosmetic enhancements but genuine performance upgrades that make this nearly 5,000-pound SUV handle more like a sports sedan.
Inside, the Sport treats you to leather-trimmed seats with contrast stitching and aluminum accents that create a premium atmosphere. The SYNC infotainment system, while not as advanced as today's systems, was quite revolutionary for its time. I've always found the third-row seating surprisingly usable - unlike many competitors where the third row feels like an afterthought. The 21-inch polished aluminum wheels give it that distinctive sporty stance that still turns heads today. Fuel economy sits around 16 city/22 highway mpg, which honestly isn't bad considering the performance you're getting.
Having driven countless SUVs over the years, I maintain that the 2013 Explorer Sport represents one of the best values in the performance SUV segment. It delivers about 85% of the capability of European luxury performance SUVs at roughly half the price. The combination of space, power, and driving dynamics creates a package that remains relevant even by today's standards. Whether you're hauling a basketball team to practice or carving through canyon roads, this Explorer proves that you don't need to choose between practicality and performance. It's the kind of vehicle that grows on you - each drive reveals another layer of its well-engineered character.