2017 Ford Explorer Sport for Sale in Dearborn, Michigan
If you want a three-row SUV with serious power, this 2017 Ford Explorer Sport, available at Father & Son Auto Sales in Dearborn, Michigan, brings much more performance than the average family vehicle.
The Explorer Sport combines a twin-turbocharged V6, standard four-wheel drive, sport-tuned handling, flexible passenger space, and useful cargo capacity. It works well for family transportation, highway travel, Michigan winters, towing, and everyday driving.
If you are searching for a used Ford Explorer Sport for sale near Detroit, this powerful SUV deserves your attention.
Twin-Turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6
The Explorer Sport features a 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6 engine. It produces an impressive 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque.
The twin turbochargers help the engine produce strong torque for acceleration, highway merging, and passing. As a result, the Sport feels noticeably quicker than a typical three-row family SUV.
Ford achieved the published horsepower rating using 93-octane fuel. Consult the owner’s manual for complete fuel recommendations.
Six-Speed SelectShift Automatic Transmission
Ford pairs the EcoBoost engine with a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission.
The transmission provides smooth automatic shifting during everyday driving. SelectShift also allows the driver to choose gears manually when additional control is desired.
Steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters add a more engaging feel without sacrificing the convenience of an automatic transmission.
Standard Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive
Unlike lower Explorer trims that were offered with front-wheel drive, the 2017 Explorer Sport comes with Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive.
The system can adjust power delivery to help maintain traction as road conditions change. This makes the Explorer Sport especially appealing to Michigan drivers who deal with snow, rain, and uneven road surfaces.
Four-wheel drive supports traction, but suitable tires and careful driving remain essential during winter weather.
Terrain Management System
The Explorer Sport includes Ford’s Terrain Management System. A console-mounted control allows the driver to select a setting that matches different surface conditions.
Available settings are designed for situations such as:
- Normal paved-road driving
- Mud and ruts
- Sand
- Snow, grass, or gravel
Hill Descent Control can also help manage vehicle speed on steep downhill surfaces.
These systems support the driver, but they do not turn the Explorer into a dedicated off-road vehicle. Always match your speed and driving style to road conditions.
Sport-Tuned Driving Character
Ford gave the Explorer Sport a more performance-focused suspension and steering calibration than a typical Explorer.
The tuning helps the SUV feel controlled during highway travel and through turns. Meanwhile, the long wheelbase and independent suspension maintain the comfort expected from a family vehicle.
This combination gives the Explorer Sport a unique position in the used-SUV market. It offers three-row practicality while delivering stronger acceleration and more athletic road manners than many competitors.
Aggressive Sport Exterior Styling
The Explorer Sport looks different from a standard family crossover. Its dark exterior accents, unique grille, black trim, large wheels, and dual exhaust outlets create a more aggressive appearance.
A wide stance and sculpted body give the Explorer a strong presence on the road. At the same time, four full-size doors and a rear liftgate preserve everyday practicality.
Exterior equipment may include:
- Sport-specific grille and exterior trim
- Large aluminum wheels
- Dual exhaust outlets
- Roof rails
- LED taillights
- Automatic headlights
- Fog lights
- Heated power-folding mirrors
- Hands-free or power liftgate
Please contact us to verify the wheels, tires, liftgate, lighting, and other exterior equipment on this specific Explorer.
Three-Row Seating for Six or Seven
The Explorer Sport provides three rows of seating. Depending on the installed second-row configuration, it can accommodate six or seven passengers.
A second-row bench provides seating for up to seven. Available second-row captain’s chairs reduce capacity to six but create easier access to the third row.
The third row uses a split-folding design, allowing you to balance passenger seating with cargo space.
This flexible layout works well for:
- Family transportation
- School drop-offs
- Sports practices
- Group outings
- Road trips
- Airport transportation
- Business and personal use
Contact Father & Son Auto Sales to confirm whether this Explorer has a second-row bench or captain’s chairs.
Spacious Passenger Cabin
The Explorer provides approximately 151.5 cubic feet of passenger volume. Front passengers receive up to approximately 42.9 inches of legroom, while the second row provides approximately 39.5 inches.
The third row offers approximately 33.3 inches of legroom. Therefore, it can handle children, teenagers, or adults for shorter trips.
The elevated seating position also gives the driver a commanding view of surrounding traffic.
Premium Sport Interior
The Sport trim brings a more upscale interior than lower Explorer models. Leather-trimmed seating, sport-inspired details, and power adjustments create a comfortable cabin for daily use.
Equipment may include:
- Leather-trimmed seating
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Power-adjustable front seats
- Driver-seat memory
- Power-adjustable pedals
- Power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Rear climate controls
- Remote start
- Push-button ignition
- Ambient interior lighting
- Multiple USB and power connections
- Heated steering wheel
- Power-folding third-row seat
Equipment can vary according to the original build. Please contact us to verify every comfort feature installed on this Explorer.
Flexible Cargo Capacity
The Explorer Sport gives families useful cargo room across all three seating configurations.
It provides approximately:
- 21 cubic feet behind the third row
- 43.9 cubic feet behind the second row
- 81.7 cubic feet behind the first row
With every row in use, the rear cargo area can hold groceries, backpacks, or smaller travel bags. Folding the third row creates space for larger shopping trips, luggage, or sports equipment.
With both rear rows folded, the Explorer can accommodate:
- Large luggage
- Camping equipment
- Work supplies
- Strollers
- Bicycles with proper positioning
- Pet carriers
- Small furniture
- Home-improvement materials
The deep storage well behind the third row also provides useful space for smaller items.
SYNC 3 Touchscreen Technology
The Explorer Sport features Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system with an eight-inch touchscreen.
SYNC 3 uses a straightforward layout with large icons and voice-command capability. It places audio, phone, climate, and available navigation functions within easy reach.
Technology features may include:
- Eight-inch touchscreen
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Hands-free calling
- Bluetooth audio streaming
- Voice commands
- Apple CarPlay
- Android Auto
- USB connections
- SiriusXM capability
- Steering-wheel-mounted controls
- Available factory navigation
Phone compatibility can depend on the device, software, cable, and service provider. We recommend connecting and testing your phone during your visit.
Available Navigation and Sony Audio
Factory navigation and a Sony premium audio system were available on properly equipped Explorer Sport models.
The available navigation system provides map guidance through the central touchscreen. Meanwhile, the Sony system offers an upgraded listening experience for music, podcasts, and audiobooks.
Because equipment varies, contact us to confirm whether this Explorer includes factory navigation, Sony premium audio, or other upgraded technology.
Rearview Camera and Available Front Camera
A rearview camera helps drivers see the area behind the Explorer while reversing. Rear parking sensors may also provide an audible warning as the vehicle approaches certain obstacles.
Some models include a front 180-degree camera with a washer. That system can provide additional visibility when pulling out of a tight parking space or driveway.
Please contact us to verify the installed camera and parking-assistance equipment.
Safety and Driver Confidence
The 2017 Ford Explorer includes important safety equipment designed to protect passengers and support stable driving.
Core safety features include:
- Rearview camera
- Rear parking sensors
- Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes
- AdvanceTrac electronic stability control
- Roll Stability Control
- Traction control
- Trailer-sway control
- Front airbags
- Front-seat side airbags
- Side-curtain airbags
- Driver and front-passenger knee airbags
- Tire-pressure monitoring
- LATCH child-seat anchors
- MyKey programmable vehicle settings
- SecuriLock anti-theft system
Depending on installed packages, additional technology may include:
- BLIS blind-spot monitoring
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control
- Forward-collision warning
- Brake support
- Lane-keeping assistance
- Automatic high beams
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- Active parking assistance
- Inflatable rear safety belts
These advanced systems were not installed on every Explorer Sport. Therefore, contact us to confirm the exact safety and driver-assistance equipment.
Driver-assistance technology supports attentive driving but does not replace careful observation.
Up to 5,000 Pounds of Towing Capacity
When properly equipped with the required Class III Trailer Tow Package and weight-distributing equipment, the Explorer Sport can tow up to approximately 5,000 pounds.
Depending on the trailer and total loaded weight, that may provide enough capacity for:
- A small or midsize travel trailer
- Utility trailer
- Personal watercraft
- Small boat
- Recreational equipment
Towing capacity depends on installed equipment, passenger weight, cargo load, trailer configuration, and vehicle condition.
Always confirm that this particular Explorer has the required factory towing equipment before attaching a trailer.
Fuel Economy Expectations
The 2017 Explorer Sport received an EPA estimate of approximately 16 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined when new.
Actual fuel economy varies based on driving style, traffic, weather, tire condition, fuel grade, maintenance, passenger load, and use of the turbocharged engine’s performance.
Buyers should choose the Sport primarily for its power, standard 4WD, towing capability, and three-row practicality rather than maximum fuel economy.
A Strong SUV for Michigan Drivers
The Explorer Sport combines qualities that are difficult to find in an average family crossover.
It may be a strong fit for:
- Families needing three-row seating
- Drivers who want standard 4WD
- Buyers who value strong acceleration
- Michigan drivers concerned about winter traction
- Shoppers who occasionally tow
- Families taking long road trips
- Drivers who need flexible cargo space
- Buyers who want performance without moving to a V8 SUV
Its combination of 365 horsepower, Intelligent 4WD, passenger room, and cargo flexibility makes it useful throughout the year.
Used Explorer Sport Ownership Considerations
Maintenance history matters when purchasing any pre-owned twin-turbocharged SUV. Regular oil changes using the correct oil help protect the engine and turbochargers.
During your visit, consider checking:
- Available service records
- Engine oil level and condition
- Cooling-system condition
- Signs of coolant loss
- Transmission operation
- Four-wheel-drive operation
- Brake performance
- Tire condition and tread depth
- Steering and suspension feel
- Heating and air-conditioning operation
- Heated and ventilated seat operation
- Touchscreen and Bluetooth operation
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
- Power liftgate operation
- Folding second- and third-row seats
- Exterior and interior condition
- Dashboard warning lights
- Operation of installed driver-assistance features
A complete test drive will help you evaluate the Explorer’s acceleration, braking, ride quality, visibility, and overall condition.
Performance and Family Practicality
Many three-row SUVs focus only on passenger space. The Explorer Sport adds a level of performance that makes it more engaging to drive.
Its EcoBoost V6 delivers more power than the engines found in many competing family SUVs. Meanwhile, standard 4WD, three-row seating, and more than 80 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity preserve everyday usefulness.
For buyers who need family space but do not want an ordinary driving experience, the Explorer Sport offers a compelling combination.
Financing Options for Qualified Buyers
Father & Son Auto Sales offers financing options for qualified buyers searching for a used Ford Explorer in Dearborn.
Bad credit? No credit? Financing options may be available. Our team can help qualified applicants explore programs offered by participating lenders.
Every application remains subject to lender approval, income verification, credit history, and qualification requirements. Interest rates, down payments, loan terms, and final approvals vary by applicant and lender.
Trade-Ins Are Welcome
Have a car, truck, van, or SUV to trade? Bring it to Father & Son Auto Sales for an appraisal. You may be able to apply your vehicle’s trade value toward this Explorer or another vehicle from our inventory.
For a smoother appraisal process, bring your title or payoff information, registration, identification, keys, and available service records.
Frequently Asked Questions
What engine does the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport have?
It features a 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbocharged V6 producing 365 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque.
What transmission does it use?
Ford pairs the EcoBoost engine with a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission.
Does the Explorer Sport have four-wheel drive?
Yes. Intelligent Four-Wheel Drive is standard on the 2017 Explorer Sport.
How many passengers can it seat?
The Explorer can seat six or seven passengers, depending on whether it has second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat.
How much cargo space does it offer?
It provides approximately 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 43.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and up to 81.7 cubic feet behind the first row.
Does it have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
The SYNC 3 system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for compatible smartphones.
Does it have navigation?
Factory navigation was available. Contact us to confirm whether it is installed on this Explorer.
Does it have heated and cooled seats?
The Sport trim offered leather-trimmed heated and ventilated front seating. Please verify the installed seating equipment and operation during your visit.
Does it have blind-spot monitoring?
BLIS blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available through certain equipment packages. Contact us to verify whether this vehicle includes them.
How much can it tow?
The Explorer Sport can tow up to approximately 5,000 pounds when properly equipped with the required Class III Trailer Tow Package and weight-distributing equipment.
Is financing available?
Financing options may be available for qualified buyers. All approvals and loan terms remain subject to participating lender requirements.
Can I trade in my current vehicle?
Yes. Father & Son Auto Sales welcomes trade-ins.
Metro Detroit Communities We Serve
We proudly assist customers from:
Dearborn, Detroit, Dearborn Heights, Allen Park, Taylor, Lincoln Park, Melvindale, Southgate, Livonia, Westland, Garden City, Inkster, Redford, Wayne, Romulus, Southfield, Warren, Sterling Heights, Downriver, Wayne County, and communities throughout Metro Detroit and Southeast Michigan.
Schedule Your Ford Explorer Sport Test Drive
Don’t miss your opportunity to see this 2017 Ford Explorer Sport for sale in Dearborn, Michigan. Visit Father & Son Auto Sales to inspect the vehicle, experience its twin-turbocharged performance, explore its three-row interior, discuss your trade-in, and review available financing options.
Shop our inventory at FatherAndSonAutoSales.com or call 313-846-4633 for current availability, mileage, pricing, title information, seating configuration, installed equipment, and test-drive scheduling.
Vehicle availability, mileage, price, title status, seating configuration, towing equipment, condition, and installed features should be confirmed directly with Father & Son Auto Sales. Equipment can vary according to the original build and installed option packages. Financing remains subject to lender approval and qualification.
