Ford Explorer Sport (2014): Specs, Performance & More

by Alex Braham 54 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport. If you're thinking about buying one, or maybe you already own this amazing SUV, you're in the right place. We'll cover everything from its performance and specs to its features and what makes it stand out. Buckle up!

Overview of the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport

The 2014 Ford Explorer Sport is a standout model in the Explorer lineup, known for its enhanced performance and sporty styling. This SUV caters to those who want a blend of practicality and a bit of thrill. Unlike the base Explorer, the Sport trim packs a more powerful engine, a tuned suspension, and distinctive exterior and interior design elements. These upgrades make it a compelling choice for families and adventure-seekers alike. The Explorer Sport offers a comfortable ride, ample cargo space, and a suite of tech features that enhance the driving experience. Its aggressive stance and unique styling cues set it apart from the more pedestrian trims, signaling its sporty intentions. Whether you're navigating city streets or exploring off-the-beaten-path trails, the 2014 Explorer Sport delivers a versatile and engaging driving experience. Its combination of power, style, and functionality makes it a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts. This model year also benefits from Ford's continued improvements in safety and technology, ensuring a modern and secure ride for all passengers. From its bolstered seats to its responsive handling, every aspect of the Explorer Sport is designed to elevate the driving experience. Its legacy as a performance-oriented SUV continues to resonate with drivers who appreciate a vehicle that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures with equal aplomb.

Engine and Performance

When it comes to the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport engine, this SUV doesn't mess around. Under the hood, you'll find a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that churns out an impressive 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This is a significant upgrade from the standard Explorer's engine, providing a noticeable boost in acceleration and overall performance. The EcoBoost technology combines turbocharging and direct injection to deliver power efficiently, ensuring that you get both performance and reasonable fuel economy. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that offers smooth and responsive shifts, enhancing the driving experience. Ford's engineers have also tuned the suspension to provide a sportier feel, reducing body roll and improving handling. This makes the Explorer Sport more engaging to drive, whether you're navigating twisty roads or cruising on the highway. The intelligent four-wheel-drive system further enhances traction and stability, making it capable in various driving conditions. Acceleration is brisk, with the Explorer Sport capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in around 6 seconds, which is quite impressive for an SUV of its size. The ample torque ensures strong pulling power, making it suitable for towing trailers or hauling cargo. Overall, the engine and performance enhancements make the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport a standout choice for those who want a blend of power, responsiveness, and practicality in their SUV.

Key Features and Specs

The 2014 Ford Explorer Sport boasts a range of key features and impressive specs that set it apart from other SUVs in its class. Let's dive into what makes this vehicle a great choice. The Sport trim includes unique styling elements such as a blacked-out grille, 20-inch painted alloy wheels, and distinctive badging, giving it a more aggressive and sporty appearance. Inside, you'll find leather upholstery with red accent stitching, adding a touch of luxury and flair. The front seats are bolstered for added support during spirited driving. The Explorer Sport also comes standard with a host of tech features, including Ford's MyFord Touch infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen display, navigation, and a premium Sony audio system. Other notable features include a rearview camera, parking sensors, and dual-zone automatic climate control. Safety is also a priority, with standard features like stability control, traction control, and multiple airbags. The Explorer Sport offers ample cargo space, with over 80 cubic feet of room with the rear seats folded down, making it practical for hauling gear and luggage. The towing capacity is also impressive, rated at up to 5,000 pounds, making it suitable for towing trailers and boats. The dimensions of the Explorer Sport are well-suited for both city driving and off-road adventures, offering a good balance of maneuverability and stability. Overall, the combination of performance, style, and features makes the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport a compelling choice for SUV buyers.

Interior and Exterior Styling

The 2014 Ford Explorer Sport really shines when you look at its interior and exterior styling. Ford made sure this wasn't just another boring SUV. On the outside, you get a unique blacked-out grille that screams sporty. The 20-inch painted alloy wheels add to that aggressive look. Special badging sets it apart from the regular Explorers, so everyone knows you're driving something special. The interior continues the sporty theme with leather upholstery and cool red accent stitching. Those front seats? They're bolstered to keep you snug when you're having a bit of fun on the road. It's all about blending comfort with a touch of excitement. The MyFord Touch infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen makes everything feel modern. Plus, the premium Sony audio system turns your drive into a concert. Little touches like the ambient lighting and the overall design make the interior a nice place to be, whether you're on a long road trip or just running errands around town. The exterior color options also play a big role in the overall look, with choices that range from sleek and understated to bold and eye-catching. The attention to detail in both the interior and exterior styling makes the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport a standout vehicle that appeals to those who want a combination of style and substance.

Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about what it's like to actually get behind the wheel of the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport. The driving experience is where this SUV truly sets itself apart. With its 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, you've got plenty of power on tap. Acceleration is quick, and the engine responds eagerly to your inputs, making it fun to drive in various conditions. The tuned suspension helps to reduce body roll, giving you more confidence when cornering. The steering is precise and well-weighted, providing good feedback from the road. The intelligent four-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, making it capable in both wet and dry conditions. The six-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, ensuring that the power is delivered efficiently. The Explorer Sport also offers a comfortable ride, even on rough roads, thanks to its well-engineered suspension. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making long drives a pleasure. Noise levels are kept to a minimum, creating a relaxed and enjoyable driving environment. The Explorer Sport also offers various driving modes that allow you to tailor the vehicle's performance to suit your preferences. Whether you're cruising on the highway, navigating city streets, or tackling off-road trails, the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport delivers a versatile and engaging driving experience that is sure to impress.

Reliability and Maintenance

When you're considering a vehicle like the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport, reliability and maintenance are crucial factors to keep in mind. Overall, the Explorer Sport has a reputation for being reasonably reliable, but like any vehicle, it's not without its potential issues. Regular maintenance is key to keeping it running smoothly. This includes routine oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections of key components such as brakes and fluids. It's also important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule to prevent potential problems. Some common issues reported by owners of the 2014 Explorer Sport include problems with the MyFord Touch infotainment system, issues with the turbocharger, and occasional transmission problems. However, many of these issues can be mitigated with proper maintenance and timely repairs. It's also a good idea to check for any recalls or service bulletins issued by Ford and address them promptly. The cost of maintenance and repairs for the Explorer Sport is generally in line with other SUVs in its class. However, some repairs, such as those involving the turbocharger or transmission, can be more expensive. To minimize potential issues, it's recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing it, especially if it's a used model. Additionally, keeping detailed maintenance records can help you stay on top of any potential problems and ensure that the vehicle is properly cared for. With proper care and attention, the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport can provide years of reliable service.

Pros and Cons

Let's break down the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport with a simple pros and cons list to give you a clear picture.

Pros:

  • Powerful Engine: The 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 provides impressive acceleration and performance.
  • Sporty Styling: Unique exterior and interior design elements give it a distinctive look.
  • Comfortable Ride: Well-tuned suspension and comfortable seats make it enjoyable for long drives.
  • Ample Cargo Space: Plenty of room for hauling gear and luggage.
  • Advanced Features: Comes standard with a range of tech and safety features.

Cons:

  • Fuel Economy: The powerful engine can be thirsty, especially in city driving.
  • MyFord Touch System: Some users have reported issues with the infotainment system.
  • Potential Maintenance Costs: Some repairs, such as those involving the turbocharger, can be expensive.
  • Size: Its large size can make it challenging to maneuver in tight spaces.
  • Reliability Issues: Some owners have reported occasional reliability problems.

Is the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport Right for You?

So, is the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport the right SUV for you? It really depends on what you're looking for. If you value performance, sporty styling, and a comfortable ride, then it's definitely worth considering. The powerful EcoBoost engine and tuned suspension make it fun to drive, while the spacious interior and advanced features add to its appeal. However, if you're primarily concerned with fuel economy and reliability, you might want to weigh the pros and cons carefully. The Explorer Sport can be thirsty, and some owners have reported occasional issues. It's also important to consider your budget, as maintenance and repairs can be more expensive compared to some other SUVs. If you're looking for a versatile SUV that can handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures, the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport is a great option. Just be sure to do your research, consider your priorities, and take it for a test drive before making a decision. Ultimately, the best way to determine if it's the right fit for you is to experience it firsthand and see how it meets your needs and preferences.