What is the specs of the 2014 Ford Explorer Sport 3.5 EcoBoost?
The 2014 Ford Explorer Sport with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine delivers strong turbocharged power, paired with all-wheel drive and a capable towing setup. It combines performance-oriented styling with practical SUV versatility.
Engine and performance
The following details cover the core powertrain that defined the Explorer Sport’s drive experience.
- Engine: 3.5-liter twin-turbo EcoBoost V6
- Horsepower: 365 hp (at about 5,500 rpm)
- Torque: 350 lb-ft (roughly 1,750–5,000 rpm)
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic with SelectShift/manual shift mode
- Drivetrain: All-Wheel Drive with Ford’s Terrain Management System
These specifications underline the Sport variant’s goal: confident acceleration and enhanced traction in varied conditions, while maintaining everyday practicality.
Powertrain specifics
Engine output and drive configuration are the highlights, with the EcoBoost setup designed to provide strong mid-range thrust and highway passing power, especially when paired with AWD for grip.
Drivetrain, handling and features
Overview of how the Explorer Sport handles on the road and the key equipment that supports performance and control.
- Suspension: Sport-tuned suspension for improved body control
- Wheels: 20-inch wheels (Sport trim) with available all-season tires
- Brakes: Four-wheel antilock disc brakes with ABS
- Steering: Electric power-assisted steering with sporty feel
- Drive modes: Terrain Management System (Normal, Sport, Snow/Wet, Tow/Haul, etc.)
With these components, the Sport balances a more dynamic feel with Ford’s practical SUV heritage, offering a confident ride in both everyday commuting and light off-road/adverse-weather scenarios.
Handling and equipment
Key handling aids and equipment emphasize traction control and stability, while keeping cabin comfort and convenience features accessible for daily use.
Capability and efficiency
Payload, towing, and fuel-use considerations are central to how buyers evaluate the Explorer Sport for family hauls and road trips.
- Towing capacity: Up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped
- Fuel economy (EPA estimates): Approximately 17 mpg city / 23 mpg highway for AWD models (figures can vary by drivetrain and configuration; 2WD versions generally show better highway and overall efficiency)
- Seating capacity: Up to seven passengers with third-row seating; optional second-row captain’s chairs reduce seating to six
The combination of a strong turbocharged engine and controlled weight distribution supports practical towing and reasonable efficiency for a mid-size SUV of its era.
Efficiency and usefulness
Fuel economy and towing are focal points for evaluating the Sport’s everyday usefulness, whether ferrying a family or tackling weekend trips.
Dimensions, interior and equipment
Dimensions, cargo space, and interior features help define the Explorer Sport’s practicality and space for passengers and gear.
- Exterior length: roughly 197 inches (varies slightly by wheel/tire package)
- Wheelbase: about 112 inches
- Curb weight: typically in the mid-4,000- to low-5,000-pound range depending on options
- Cargo space: about 21 cu ft behind the third row, 43.9 cu ft behind the second row, and up to around 80 cu ft with seats folded
- Interior: Leather-trimmed seating with available heated front seats; Ford SYNC/MyFord Touch infotainment options; available premium audio and navigation
These measurements reflect the Explorer’s role as a family-friendly SUV with a surprisingly generous cargo envelope for its class, plus tech features aimed at convenience and connectivity.
Interior space and tech
Interior capacity and technology options are tailored to comfort, practicality, and entertainment during daily use and longer trips.
Summary
The 2014 Ford Explorer Sport 3.5 EcoBoost combines a powerful twin-turbo V6 with all-wheel drive, tuned for a more engaging drive without sacrificing everyday practicality. It offers a strong towing capability, a practical cargo footprint, and a feature-rich interior, all wrapped in a sportier exterior package that differentiates it from more family-focused trims.
Notes on the model and context
Specs can vary based on options and regional specifications. The figures above reflect the typical configuration for the 2014 Explorer Sport with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine and AWD, as reported by Ford and automotive reviewers at the time.
