Does Ford Explorer Sport have 4 wheel drive?
Yes—the Explorer Sport badge historically signified a four-wheel-drive, sport-oriented SUV. In Ford’s current lineup there is no model called “Explorer Sport”; the performance flagship is the Explorer ST, which uses all-wheel drive by default. If you’re looking at a used Explorer Sport, AWD is common, but the exact drivetrain depends on the model year and option packages.
What the Explorer Sport has signified historically
The Explorer Sport name appeared on mid-size Explorers in the 2010s as a sportier variant, pairing a turbocharged EcoBoost engine with a firmer suspension and enhanced traction, typically through all-wheel drive. Ford later shifted the high-performance focus to the Explorer ST, which continues to emphasize strong acceleration and handling with AWD as standard or readily available depending on the year.
Current lineup and drivetrain availability
Sport badge vs ST performance model
In today’s Ford lineup, there isn’t an active model marketed as “Explorer Sport.” The closest performance-focused option is the Explorer ST, which is equipped with all-wheel drive to maximize traction and performance. Other trims—such as Base, XLT, Limited, and Platinum—offer AWD as an option or standard depending on the year and market. Some older configurations or regional offerings could also be 2WD, but AWD is prevalent in the modern Explorer family.
Here is a concise snapshot of how AWD/4WD is applied across the modern Explorer family:
- Explorer ST: typically all-wheel drive (AWD) as standard for maximum traction and performance.
- Other trims (Base, XLT, Limited, Platinum): AWD is available on most configurations; some years and markets may offer 2WD as an alternative.
- Older or used models labeled as “Sport” may have varied drivetrain configurations, but AWD was commonly included in those variants.
Note: Drivetrain availability can vary by model year and market. Always verify with the window sticker or build sheet for the exact vehicle you’re considering.
A practical note for buyers
If you require four-wheel drive for adverse weather or off-road use, target Explorer trims with AWD or opt for the Explorer ST for performance with traction advantages. For daily driving, AWD provides a good balance of stability and efficiency, while some older 2WD configurations may offer lower upfront costs.
Summary
In sum, AWD has been a hallmark of the Explorer Sport’s appeal, and today the closest equivalent is the Explorer ST with AWD. Ford no longer markets a model named “Explorer Sport,” so shoppers interested in that heritage should look at the Explorer ST or other AWD-equipped trims and verify the drivetrain on the exact vehicle year they’re considering.
