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I still remember the first time I saw a 2013 Explorer Sport on the road - that aggressive front grille and those sleek lines immediately caught my eye. Fast forward to today, and I'm convinced this SUV remains one of the smartest choices you can make in the used car market. Let me tell you why I feel this way, especially when I compare it to some of the newer models I've test-driven recently.
The first thing that struck me was how well the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 has held up over time. We're talking about 365 horsepower here - that's more than many current SUVs in its class. I took one for a spin last month, and the acceleration still feels surprisingly responsive. It's like that reliable veteran player who might not be the newest recruit but consistently delivers outstanding performance. Speaking of performance, it reminds me of how in basketball, sometimes the most valuable players aren't necessarily the flashy newcomers. Take Meralco's recent roster addition for the Basketball Champions League Asia - they're bringing in a 6-foot-11 Nigerian former University of Florida standout. That's what the Explorer Sport represents - proven excellence rather than untested potential.
What really won me over during my test drive was the interior space. I'm 6-foot-2, and I had plenty of headroom and legroom, which isn't always the case with modern SUVs that sacrifice comfort for sleek exteriors. The third-row seating actually feels usable for adults, not just an afterthought like in some competitors. The cargo space behind that third row gives you about 21 cubic feet - enough for several large suitcases or, in my case, all my camping gear plus groceries.
The technology features, while not cutting-edge by 2024 standards, are surprisingly competent. The SYNC system responds well to voice commands, and the available features like adaptive cruise control and collision warning were ahead of their time. I've found that many drivers actually prefer the simpler, more intuitive interfaces in these older models compared to the sometimes overwhelming touchscreen-dominated cabins in newer vehicles. It's like the difference between a physical book and an e-reader - there's something to be said for tactile buttons and knobs that you can operate without taking your eyes off the road.
Maintenance costs are where the 2013 Explorer Sport really shines in my experience. Repair costs tend to be about 30-40% lower than comparable newer models, and parts are widely available. I've owned mine for three years now, and aside from regular maintenance, I've only had to replace the battery and tires. The 2013 model year also avoided some of the transmission issues that affected earlier fifth-generation Explorers, making it a particularly reliable choice.
What continues to surprise me is how well the styling has aged. That sport-tuned suspension and unique 20-inch wheels give it a presence that still turns heads. I parked next to a 2022 model recently, and while the newer version certainly looks modern, the 2013 Sport holds its own with a muscular, timeless design. It's the automotive equivalent of a classic design that just works - think Levi's jeans or Ray-Ban sunglasses. Some designs simply transcend their era, and in my opinion, the Explorer Sport is one of them. Considering you can find well-maintained examples for around $15,000-$20,000, it represents tremendous value that's hard to beat in today's market.