2002 Ford Explorer Sport

The Explorer Sport's rugged, sporty styling features wide body-side moldings and flared wheel lips, as well as integrated bumpers and wraparound headlights. Black roof rails may be fitted with optional crossbars capable of carrying 100 pounds of cargo. Sidestep bars are available to ease access to the interior.

Full black-on-white gauges are easy enough to read. Titanium-colored trim accents the instrument panel and door panels.

The Explorer Sport's cockpit remains comfortable and ergonomic. The standard center console contains cupholders, an open storage bin and a removable soft pack. An optional high-series console includes rear audio controls, a removable ashtray and a power-point outlet. An available overhead console contains map/courtesy lights, an electronic compass and an outside temperature display.


White-faced gauges are shared with the Explorer SportTrac, as is an optional Pioneer sound system with 6-disc in-dash CD changer. A CD/cassette player is standard. Radio buttons are a bit complicated, but controls are high-mounted. Climate control switches also are easy to operate.


Low-back cloth-upholstered seats are standard, with leather-trimmed seats available. The 50/50-split second-row bench has two-way head restraints. Antilock braking is standard and side-impact airbags are optional. An optional remote keyless-entry system includes Ford's five-button keypad on the driver's door.

Although only a two-door, the Explorer Sport has a maximum 71.4 cubic feet of cargo area with the rear seats folded.

Although the ride can get somewhat bouncy on city streets, it's about average for this type of vehicle. EPA fuel-economy estimates of 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway reveal that the Explorer Sport is not the most frugal SUV, consuming just about the same amount of gasoline as a V-6 Explorer—which holds five or seven passengers rather than four.