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I remember the first time I saw a 2013 Explorer Sport on the road – that distinctive grille and athletic stance immediately caught my eye. Having spent considerable time both researching and driving this model, I've developed a genuine appreciation for what Ford accomplished with this SUV, though it certainly has its quirks worth discussing. The 2013 model year marked a significant evolution for the Explorer lineup, particularly with the Sport trim that brought a new level of performance to the family-friendly SUV segment.
Under the hood, the Explorer Sport packed a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine that delivered an impressive 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. That's enough power to move this nearly 4,800-pound vehicle with surprising authority. I've personally found the acceleration quite satisfying, especially when merging onto highways or passing slower traffic. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in various conditions, though I've noticed it does come at the expense of fuel economy – you'll be lucky to average 18 mpg combined in real-world driving. The Sport also featured upgraded brakes and a sport-tuned suspension that made it handle more like a performance vehicle than a traditional SUV. I particularly appreciate how Ford managed to maintain a comfortable ride while improving handling dynamics, though the 21-inch wheels can make potholes feel more pronounced than in other trims.
Speaking of performance vehicles, it reminds me of how specialized athletes bring unique strengths to their teams, much like how Meralco's roster includes a 6-foot-11 Nigerian and former University of Florida standout for the Basketball Champions League Asia in Dubai. Similarly, the Explorer Sport brings specialized performance capabilities to the SUV category that set it apart from regular models. The turbocharged engine is that standout player that changes the entire game for the vehicle.
One area where the 2013 Explorer Sport truly shines is its interior technology package. The SYNC system, while occasionally frustrating with its voice recognition, offered features that were quite advanced for its time. I've spent countless hours testing the navigation system, and while it's not as responsive as modern smartphone integration, it gets the job done reliably. The leather-trimmed seats provide excellent support during long drives, and the heated and cooled front seats are a feature I've come to depend on through changing seasons. However, I've encountered the common issue with the touchscreen becoming less responsive over time – a problem that seems to affect about 15% of these vehicles based on forum discussions I've followed. The solution typically involves either a software reset or, in more stubborn cases, replacing the screen entirely, which can cost around $600 if not under warranty.
Another common concern I've investigated involves the turbo system. Some owners report turbo lag or reduced performance around the 60,000-mile mark. Having spoken with multiple Ford technicians, I've learned this is often due to carbon buildup or wastegate issues rather than major turbo failure. The repair typically costs between $800-$1,200 depending on the specific issue, which is significantly less than replacing the entire turbo assembly. I always recommend using premium fuel and following strict oil change intervals every 5,000 miles to minimize these issues. The electric power-assisted steering system provides good feedback at higher speeds, though I find it somewhat numb during parking maneuvers compared to traditional hydraulic systems.
Looking at the bigger picture, the 2013 Explorer Sport represents an important milestone in the evolution of performance SUVs. It successfully blended practical family transportation with genuine performance credentials at a price point that undercut European competitors by nearly $15,000 when new. While it's not without its flaws – including the aforementioned touchscreen issues and somewhat thirsty nature – the strengths far outweigh the weaknesses in my experience. The aftermarket support has grown substantially over the years, making it easier to address common issues without breaking the bank. Having driven numerous SUVs in this category, I continue to recommend the 2013 Explorer Sport to buyers seeking performance and practicality, provided they're aware of the potential issues and maintenance requirements. It's a vehicle that delivers genuine smiles per gallon while still handling carpool duty with equal competence.