Hello all,
As a new member, I understand I may not have the respect or trust from any of the members at this point when it comes to recommending products, but I just had to post a reply to this thread. I have been a "lurker" to the forums for some time now since purchasing my 2014 Ex Base 4WD brand new last year and appreciate all of the reviews, complaints, humor, and insight this forum brings to Explorer owners. I previously had a 2006 Ex XLT 4x4 that I traded in for this one and I am very happy with my decision.
As I mentioned in my new member intro, I've had a few minor issues with the Explorer thus far, but it's expected. I commute a good ways each day and after my previous Explorer, I expect a few minor hiccups every once in a while. That being said, one of my biggest personal complaints with the new model I own was the occasional (which soon turned to frequent) lagging in shifts as the transmission seemed to "hunt" for the next gear. I knew I didn't buy a sports car, I also own a 2008 Mustang Bullitt that I keep for that

, but felt like the Explorer was so much more capable of not only increased acceleration but more responsive and confident shifts. I have driven a few of the new Interceptor Utilitys at work, with both the N/A 3.7L and the Ecoboost motors, and I was almost but not entirely disappointed with the performance of my own POV.
After continuing to "lurk" around this site, I decided to look into the Livernois tunes a bit more, as it seemed like the most reliable (though I could not find too many reviews for their non-sport model tunes) and easiest option for me. I somewhat bit the bullet on this move as I was really going into it blind without much knowledge other then my own experience tuning other cars. After viewing the information on various threads and the Livernois site, I went ahead and ordered the 91 octane tune kit hoping for the best.
I dealt with Anthony over at Livernois. I saw this post while snooping on the forums tonight and felt it was finally time to go ahead an join and give a positive, honest review so others with N/A 3.5L Explorers can have some feedback to base their decision on going with a tune. All I can say is...wow. After quick shipping to my door, several informative and prompt emails back and forth with Anthony, and literally following some basic instructions, my base Explorer shifts just a quickly and confidently as the Law Enforcement ones I have driven hard....and pulls like a rocket whether you're at a dead stop or trying to get around a semi on the highway at higher speeds. The torque is unbelievable, but it's the confidence I feel from the solid, firm shift points that really makes me happy with my decision.
I apologize for the extensive read. I just felt that after spending 500.00 on a significant upgrade to my Explorer, that those wondering whether it may be worthwhile for them may gain some insight from my experience. Kudos to Livernois for a great buying experience and an even better driving experience. Highly recommended if you're looking to get what I feel should have been the power from the factory out of these cars.
Thanks again to all on the forums for some great reads. Looking forward to being able to contribute.
Cheers!