For customers out there looking for a Ford Explorer with a sportier look, but can’t afford to spend up into the full-blown EcoBoost powered Sport model, Ford is showing off a new package at the Chicago Auto Show you might just like.
For the 2017 Ford Explorer, there’s a new Sport Appearance Package that adds a more aggressive and off-road oriented look to Ford’s number two best-selling crossover SUV with a comprehensive list of visuals inside and out.
Based on the XLT trim grade, the XLT with Sport Appearance Package slots in just above XLT, but below Limited, Sport and Platinum. This means in addition to all the package features, you get what comes on an XLT for equipment.
The first thing that really sticks out are the huge 20-inch Magnetic Gray wheels. They tie down the unique look along with black body side cladding front to rear which ties into the front and rear fascias also with their own look.
Up front is a unique Magnetic Gray grill design backed up by the same color applied to things like the mirror caps and various appliques. And where chrome oncs lived, it’s replaced with a Magnetic Gray finish to go along with extra blackout here and there.
The interior isn’t quite as dialed in as the full-boat Sport model, but has a much more exclusive look. Seats get a combination of Dark Earth leather trims with Miko Suede inserts front and rear. The suede also flows to the door panels as well. Contrast stitching and embroidered logo floor mats finish it all out.
Powering the 2017 Explorer XLT with Sport Appearance Package is the 290 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic transmission and it will be available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive. Ford has not said whether or not it will be able to be optioned with the 2.3 liter EcoBoost four cylinder.
The new 2017 XLT Sport Appearance Package joins the Explorer family beginning this summer. Pricing hasn’t been announced but figure it to come in between and XLT and a Limited about square in the middle.
