2017 Ford Explorer Sport: Specs, Features & More

by Alex Braham 49 views

Hey guys! Are you curious about the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport and what it has to offer? Well, you've come to the right place! This article dives deep into the specs, features, and everything else you need to know about this sporty SUV. Whether you're considering buying one or just want to learn more, buckle up and let's explore!

Engine and Performance

The heart of the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is its powerful engine. Under the hood, you'll find a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that delivers an impressive 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifting. The EcoBoost technology combines turbocharging and direct injection to maximize power and efficiency, making it a joy to drive both on city streets and open highways.

The intelligent 4WD system is another standout feature. It automatically adjusts power distribution to the front and rear wheels based on driving conditions, ensuring optimal traction and stability. Whether you're facing rain, snow, or rough terrain, this system provides added confidence and control. The Terrain Management System further enhances the Explorer Sport's off-road capabilities, offering selectable modes for various surfaces like sand, mud, and gravel. This allows you to tailor the vehicle's performance to the specific environment, making it a versatile choice for adventurous drivers. The suspension is sport-tuned, meaning you get a firmer, more controlled ride that enhances handling and reduces body roll in corners. This makes the Explorer Sport feel more agile and responsive than your typical SUV. All these features combine to make the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport a capable and fun-to-drive SUV, perfect for those who want a blend of performance and practicality. Whether you're towing a trailer, navigating challenging weather conditions, or simply enjoying a spirited drive, the Explorer Sport delivers a confident and engaging experience. The robust engine and intelligent 4WD system ensure that you're always in control, while the sport-tuned suspension adds an extra layer of excitement to every journey. It's a vehicle that's equally at home on the daily commute and weekend adventures, making it a truly versatile choice for modern drivers. So, if you're looking for an SUV that can keep up with your active lifestyle, the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is definitely worth considering.

Exterior Design

The exterior design of the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport sets it apart from other SUVs with its aggressive and sporty styling. The blacked-out grille, unique to the Sport trim, gives it a bold and distinctive look. Complementing the grille are the blacked-out roof rack and side mirrors, which add to its sleek and modern appearance. The Explorer Sport also features unique badging, letting everyone know that this is no ordinary Explorer. The 20-inch alloy wheels not only enhance the vehicle's stance but also contribute to its sporty handling. These wheels are designed to be both stylish and functional, providing a perfect balance of aesthetics and performance. The overall design is muscular and athletic, with sharp lines and a confident presence on the road.

The integrated exhaust outlets are another subtle yet significant design element. They are seamlessly incorporated into the rear bumper, giving the vehicle a clean and finished look. The rear spoiler adds a touch of sportiness and improves aerodynamics, further enhancing the Explorer Sport's performance. Attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the exterior design, from the placement of the fog lamps to the shape of the headlights. The Explorer Sport is designed to make a statement, whether it's parked in your driveway or cruising down the highway. The powerful stance and aggressive styling cues convey a sense of confidence and capability, setting it apart from the competition. The blacked-out elements provide a sharp contrast to the body color, creating a visually striking effect. The Explorer Sport's exterior is not just about looks; it's also about functionality. The aerodynamic design helps improve fuel efficiency, while the sturdy construction ensures durability and safety. The spacious interior is easily accessible through the wide doors and the power liftgate, making it convenient for passengers and cargo. In summary, the exterior design of the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is a perfect blend of style and substance. It's a vehicle that looks as good as it performs, with a bold and distinctive design that commands attention. Whether you're driving around town or embarking on a long road trip, the Explorer Sport will turn heads and make a lasting impression. The combination of aggressive styling, sporty details, and functional design makes it a standout choice in the SUV segment.

Interior Features and Technology

Stepping inside the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport, you'll find a cabin designed for both comfort and convenience. The leather-trimmed seats provide excellent support and a touch of luxury, making long drives more enjoyable. The Sport trim also features unique interior accents, such as carbon fiber-look trim on the dashboard and door panels, adding to its sporty appeal. The dual-zone automatic climate control ensures that both the driver and passengers can set their preferred temperature, while the heated and cooled front seats provide added comfort in any weather.

Technology is a key focus in the 2017 Explorer Sport. The SYNC 3 infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with an 8-inch touchscreen display. It offers seamless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to access your favorite apps, make calls, and send messages hands-free. The system also includes voice recognition, making it easy to control various functions while keeping your eyes on the road. The premium Sony audio system delivers crystal-clear sound, ensuring an immersive listening experience. With 12 speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin, you'll enjoy rich and detailed audio, whether you're listening to music, podcasts, or audiobooks. The Explorer Sport also comes equipped with a range of advanced safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane departure warning. These technologies help you stay aware of your surroundings and can help prevent accidents. The adaptive cruise control is another valuable feature, automatically adjusting your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. This can be especially helpful on long highway drives, reducing driver fatigue and enhancing safety. Overall, the interior of the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is designed to provide a comfortable, convenient, and safe driving experience. The combination of luxurious materials, advanced technology, and thoughtful design makes it a great place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip. The focus on both comfort and functionality ensures that every passenger feels at home, while the advanced safety features provide added peace of mind. It's a vehicle that's designed to meet the needs of modern drivers and families, offering a blend of style, performance, and practicality.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport doesn't hold back. It's equipped with a comprehensive suite of features designed to protect you and your passengers. The antilock brakes (ABS) prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, helping you maintain steering control. The traction control system (TCS) limits wheel spin on slippery surfaces, ensuring optimal grip and stability. The electronic stability control (ESC) detects and reduces skidding, helping you stay on course in emergency situations.

The airbag system includes front, side, and curtain airbags, providing comprehensive protection in the event of a collision. The tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) alerts you when your tires are underinflated, helping you maintain proper tire pressure and improve fuel efficiency. The rearview camera provides a clear view of what's behind you when backing up, making it easier to avoid obstacles and prevent accidents. The blind-spot monitoring system alerts you when a vehicle is in your blind spot, helping you make safer lane changes. The rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space, reducing the risk of collisions. The lane departure warning system alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane, helping you stay focused and avoid unintentional lane departures. The forward collision warning system alerts you to potential collisions ahead and can even apply the brakes automatically to help mitigate or avoid an accident. These advanced safety features work together to provide a comprehensive safety net, giving you added confidence and peace of mind on the road. The 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is designed to protect you and your passengers in a variety of situations, from everyday driving to emergency maneuvers. The combination of active and passive safety features makes it a safe and reliable choice for families and individuals alike. Ford's commitment to safety is evident in every aspect of the Explorer Sport, from its robust construction to its advanced technology. Whether you're driving around town or embarking on a long road trip, you can trust that the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is equipped to keep you safe and secure. The focus on safety is just one of the many reasons why the Explorer Sport is a popular choice among SUV buyers.

Price and Value

Let's talk about price and value. The 2017 Ford Explorer Sport typically had a starting price in the mid-$40,000 range when new, but of course, this could vary based on options and packages. Now, on the used market, you can often find them for significantly less, making them a very attractive option if you're looking for a lot of SUV for your money. When you consider everything you get with the Explorer Sport – the powerful EcoBoost engine, the sporty styling, the comfortable interior, and the advanced technology – it represents a strong value proposition.

It's important to remember that maintenance and repair costs can vary, so it's always a good idea to get a pre-purchase inspection before buying any used vehicle. However, the Explorer is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, and with proper care, it can provide years of trouble-free service. Comparing the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport to its competitors, such as the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Dodge Durango, it holds its own in terms of performance, features, and price. Some may prefer the off-road capabilities of the Jeep, while others may prefer the more aggressive styling of the Dodge. However, the Explorer Sport offers a well-rounded package that appeals to a wide range of buyers. Ultimately, the best way to determine if the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport is the right vehicle for you is to take it for a test drive and see how it feels. Consider your needs and priorities, and compare it to other vehicles in its class. With its combination of performance, features, and value, the Explorer Sport is definitely worth considering. Whether you're looking for a daily driver, a family vehicle, or a weekend adventurer, the Explorer Sport has something to offer. So, do your research, take it for a spin, and see if it's the perfect fit for your lifestyle. The value you get for the price makes it a compelling choice in the used SUV market.