Understanding the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport’s fuel economy requires looking at the specific configuration and driving conditions. This particular trim level, positioned above the base Sport and below the higher-tier Platinum and Limited trims, often attracted buyers who wanted a blend of capability and efficiency. The Explorer Sport typically featured the 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, a powertrain that delivered a noticeable step up in power over the standard V6, but this performance came with specific fuel economy trade-offs that potential owners needed to evaluate carefully.
2017 Ford Explorer Sport MPG Specifications
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provided the official ratings that serve as the benchmark for the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport’s efficiency. These numbers are calculated through a series of standardized tests designed to simulate city and highway driving, offering a reliable comparison point across different vehicles. For this specific model year and trim, the EPA estimated the following figures based on the available 3.5L EcoBoost engine paired with the six-speed automatic transmission.
Real-World Driving vs. EPA Estimates
While the EPA ratings offer a standardized baseline, the actual fuel economy achieved by owners can vary significantly based on individual habits and circumstances. Aggressive driving, characterized by rapid acceleration and hard braking, can substantially reduce the miles per gallon figure. Conversely, a smoother driving style that anticipates traffic flow and maintains steady speeds can help the Explorer Sport achieve numbers closer to, or sometimes even exceeding, the EPA highway estimate. Factors such as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and aerodynamic accessories also play a critical role in real-world performance.
Comparing Efficiency in the Segment
When evaluating the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport, it is essential to consider its fuel economy relative to competitors in the three-row SUV market. Trucks like the Chevrolet Traverse and the Toyota Highlander offered comparable power and space, but their efficiency ratings were often slightly different due to variations in engine technology and weight distribution. While the Explorer Sport’s 3.5L EcoBoost provided strong power delivery for towing and passing, some rivals with different configurations managed to offer marginally better overall MPG, making the choice a balance between performance priorities and long-term fuel costs.
Factors Impacting Your Mileage
Beyond the mechanical specifications, several user-specific variables influence the final MPG figure for your 2017 Explorer Sport. These elements are often within the driver's control and can lead to meaningful savings at the pump over time. Simple adjustments in routine behavior can translate into noticeable improvements in efficiency.
Utilizing the Eco Mode driving setting to optimize transmission shifts and throttle response.
Minimizing idling time during extended waits, such as at drive-thrus or while warming up the vehicle.
Ensuring the engine is tuned and the tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure.
Reducing excess weight in the cargo area and roof racks when not in use to lower aerodynamic drag.
Fuel Costs and Ownership Considerations
Calculating the total cost of ownership for the 2017 Ford Explorer Sport involves more than just the purchase price; it includes the ongoing expense of fuel. Based on the combined EPA estimate of 21 MPG and average national gas prices, owners can project their annual fuel expenditure. While the Explorer Sport may not be the most economical choice in its class, its versatility, powerful engine, and comfortable interior often justify the operational costs for families who require its specific capabilities, such as hauling passengers and cargo over long distances.
