What is the difference between Ford Explorer XLT and Sport?
The Ford Explorer is a popular SUV known for its versatility, comfort, and performance. Within the Explorer lineup, the XLT and Sport trims cater to different needs and preferences. If you're considering purchasing one of these models, understanding their differences can help you make an informed decision. Let's dive into the key distinctions between the Ford Explorer XLT and Sport.
Performance and Engine Options
One of the most significant differences between the XLT and Sport trims lies in their performance capabilities and engine options:
- Ford Explorer XLT: The XLT trim typically comes equipped with a standard 2.3L EcoBoost 4-cylinder engine. This engine balances fuel efficiency and power, making it a great choice for daily commuting and family trips.
- Ford Explorer Sport: The Sport trim, on the other hand, is designed for those who crave more power and performance. It usually features a 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering significantly more horsepower and torque. This makes the Sport trim ideal for drivers who want a more dynamic and thrilling driving experience.
Exterior and Styling
Another area where the XLT and Sport trims differ is in their exterior design and styling elements:
- Ford Explorer XLT: The XLT trim has a more traditional and understated appearance. It often includes features like 18-inch wheels and chrome accents, giving it a polished and family-friendly look.
- Ford Explorer Sport: The Sport trim stands out with its aggressive and sporty design. It typically includes larger 20-inch wheels, blacked-out exterior accents, and unique badging, emphasizing its performance-oriented nature.
Interior Features and Comfort
Both trims offer a comfortable and spacious interior, but there are some differences in the level of luxury and technology:
- Ford Explorer XLT: The XLT trim provides a well-equipped interior with features like cloth upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a standard infotainment system with a touchscreen display. It's a practical choice for families.
- Ford Explorer Sport: The Sport trim takes interior comfort up a notch with premium features such as leather-trimmed seats, a sportier steering wheel, and advanced technology options. It often includes upgraded audio systems and additional driver-assistance features.
Price and Target Audience
The price difference between the XLT and Sport trims reflects their varying features and performance capabilities:
- Ford Explorer XLT: The XLT trim is more affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious buyers who still want a reliable and well-rounded SUV.
- Ford Explorer Sport: The Sport trim is priced higher due to its enhanced performance and premium features. It's aimed at drivers who prioritize power, style, and advanced technology.
Conclusion
Choosing between the Ford Explorer XLT and Sport ultimately depends on your priorities and lifestyle. If you value fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability, the XLT is an excellent choice. However, if you’re looking for a more powerful engine, sporty design, and premium features, the Sport trim is worth the investment. Both trims offer the reliability and versatility that the Ford Explorer is known for, so you can’t go wrong with either option!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between XLT and XLT Sport?
The XLT Sport Appearance Package is a $300 option over the Chrome Appearance Package XLT. It includes trendy 18-inch machined wheels with painted magnetic pockets fitted with all-season tires. The body of the F-150 is fitted with body color bumpers, fascia, door and tailgate handles.
When did Ford stop making the Explorer Sport?
October 2010
As Ford developed the fifth-generation Ford Explorer as a unibody crossover for the 2011 model year, the Sport Trac was phased out of the model line, with production ending in October 2010.
What does XLT mean on Ford Explorer?
What is the Ford Explorer XLT package? The 2024 Ford Explorer XLT trim level is an upgrade that builds upon the Explorer base model. As an alternative to its standard cloth upholstery, the trim adds an available ActiveX stain-resistant and easy-to-clean seating material.
Which is better, Ford Explorer XLT or ST?
While the ST offers a more aggressive appearance, the XLT models give you a more classic Explorer appearance. If you are looking for a more traditional SUV, then the XLT will be your top choice. Those looking for more performance, and a touch of luxury, will want to take a look at the ST model.
Which Ford Explorer is the best model?
Which Ford Explorer trim level is the best? The highest trim level in the 2024 Ford Explorer lineup is the Ford Explorer Platinum. This trim level comes with the most luxurious features, like leather upholstery with tri-diamond perforated inserts, an available twin-panel moonroof, and a premium 12-speaker audio system.
What is the XLT Sport package on the Ford Explorer?
If you add the optional XLT Sport package, your Explorer will come with 20-inch gray wheels, Carbonized Gray paint, and black mirror caps. The XLT Technology package includes power-folding side mirrors. The performance of the 2023 Explorer XLT is enabled by a four-cylinder, turbocharged, 2.3-liter engine.
What does ST stand for in Ford Explorer?
ST stands for Sports Technologies and serves as an improved version of the company's traditional models. While most famous for its use on the Focus, it has also been added to the Fiesta and Mondeo to great effect in the past.
Which is better, XLT or Sport?
The 2018 Explorer XLT is a bit more luxurious than the base trim, and the Sport variant comes with a more powerful turbocharged engine, making it the firm choice for those who will be doing a lot of cargo hauling and towing. Both trims have excellent utility scores overall, and both come with nicely appointed interior.
What does Ford Explorer Sport mode do?
Why: For those times when you want a more exhilarating drive, Sport mode sharpens the throttle response and keeps the transmission in lower gears longer, delivering more power and a thrilling, dynamic driving experience. It's perfect for winding roads and open highways where you can enjoy the Explorer's full potential.
What is the difference between the Ford Explorer and the Sport?
The Explorer sport is basically a two door version of the Explorer. It uses the same chassis as the older Explorers (95-2001), whereas the Explorer XLT (4 door) was redesigned in 2002.
