The Ford Explorer Sport is a fine seven-seat SUV, but the Sport badge does not bestow sporty handling.
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I've given it the day to reflect upon what's been written and will now comment. I don't think Tom is far off the mark - there are things that I think Ford did wrong for the top of the line model - they should have started from the Limited instead of the XLT, especially given the price. One thing not mentioned is that the Sport lacks the Limited's HID headlights, and there's no option to upgrade. Would have liked to have the heated steering wheel as well as redundant buttons for the heated/cooled seats. Other things like the power folding rear - really, once you get used to it a couple of times, it's not really a challenge to changeover. Don't know about the Park Assist, but didn't really have a problem parallel parking without it- side mirrors are adequate.My fuel mileage average is slightly lower than Tom's and that's primarily driving around the Toronto. Active cruise is okay, but stops working/disconnects below 25 kph which is a bit disconcerting.
Overall, I like it. It's no more quirky than other cars I've owned and driven, and like any car, test drive it with a thought as to how you're going to use it and does it really meet those needs? It handles well enough in the snow (I had snow tires on it), and it's quite good on the highway without any pummeling ride. I think it strikes a decent balance between ride and handling for it's size. To me, it's better than the XLT or Limited. Really, if I wanted a GREAT handling car, then I'd be looking at something like a sedan or wagon - not an SUV/crossover (and then again, how many actually take their cars to a track to exploit the sport factor?). For what it's worth, for me it's a nice mix of sportiness and utility as a daily driver.
