Having driven a 2012 XLT for the last 6 yrs we almost left FORD (we had tested Highlander,Pilot,XC90, Atlas) But my wife (of all people right?) Feel in love with the SPORT the moment we test drove it. We previously had the XLT with 2.0 Ecoboost. Sometimes getting 23.5 around town was great but the 27/28 Mpg never materialized on the highway. The worst part about the 2.0 was that it took a while to spool and propel this 5500 lb beast in and out of lanes or up entrance ramps. You really noticed the engine in the mountains or uphill road trips from AZ to VEGAS. Driving our new SPORT seems like driving a completely different car! The turn in is quick and accurate. The car no longer lumbers and leans when taking a sharp turn. This is only version of the explorer FORD should exporting out of the USA.... man what a difference. Glad we stayed.