Ford has released a video that announces and teases a brand new variant that will be added to the Explorer line-up.
The video features glimpses of the big meaty exhaust, a mesh grille and a gimpse of the alloy wheels as well a a rapidly increasing dial on a revised speedometer. Rumors have surfaced that the high performance model will house an EcoBoost3.5-liter V6 engine with more than 350 hp (261 kW / 355 PS) in reserve.
The "exhilarating new model" will be announced live on facebook on March 28th at 1 p.m. EST / 10 a.m. PST.
For the 2013 model year, however, Ford will start producing high performance Explorers right at the factory. Dubbed the Explorer Sport, this new addition to the Explorer lineup sports the same twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 found in the Taurus SHO, Flex, F-150 and Lincoln MKS and MKT. It produces the least amount of power in this application – 350 horsepower – and while Ford doesn't mention torque figures in the press release below, we can assume somewhere around 350 lb-ft.
So, sounds like it will be over $39,000. I'd rather have a fully loaded Genesis V-6 ($44,000) or a nicely equipped Audi A4 Avant ($44,000). Of course, I'd rather have a lot of cars. Look at that ridiculous thing! I don't want it.
Well, If I was looking at an explorer sport, I probably want lots of space for people and luggage, some degree of comfort, good power, and some driving enjoyment. The A4 Avant and Genesis offer luxury, space, driving enjoyment, and a decent amount of power. Also, they're more prestigious. Obviously, not everyone thinks this way, and I understand. I do admit that anyone considering this car probably has some interesting requirements in a car.
True, though I expect a small selection of enthusiasts will consider buying it, or will at least be interested in it. Hence the existence of this thread.
So, just like the SHO, this will be the civilian version of the Police Interceptor Utility. Not a bad deal, I'd say, particularly when it starts under $40K. Chevrolet is going to really have to up the game on the updated Traverse to make me want to get one of those over this.
When I was 10 or so, I watched a 1996 Exploder Limited come from the dealer to my driveway, park, and proceed to burn until it was part of the driveway. Fond memories.
'Sport' should be reserved for 2-door Exploders. 
