2013 Ford Explorer Sport is the SHO of Crossovers: 2012 New York Auto Show

Since it’s 2011 refresh, the Ford Explorer has’t really set the world alight, at least among those that remember the old 5.0-liter and 4.6 V8 models that offered both gusto and family practicality.

Having introduced a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder in the 2012 model, Ford decided to kick things up a notch with the 2013 Explorer Sport, launching a 3.5-liter EcoBoost powered flagship Sport model.

Rated at the same 350 horsepower as the Taurus SHO and delivering 350 lb-ft of torque, the Sport is designed to deliver that extra dose of pizzazz without sacrificing fuel economy (Ford says it will deliver a projected 22 miles per gallon on the highway).

The Sport boasts a six-speed automatic transmission with 3.16:1 final drive ratio like that found in the Taurus SHO and there’s also a specially calibrated terrain management system designed to deliver optimized off-road performance while enabling this rig to tow some 5,000 lbs.

Other features include bigger brakes than other Explorers, a stiffer chassis and suspension and unique exterior trim that includes a dark painted grille, uniquely-colored 20-inch machined wheels, light lenses and mirror caps and black roof rails amongst other things.

Inside there’s plenty of stitching, as well as available two tone Sienna upholstery, 10-way power driver’s seat and six-way passenger front seat; first row heated seat cushions, dual-zone automatic climate control and of course SYNC and MyFord Touch.

Ford says it will announce pricing for the Explorer Sport in May, with deliveries scheduled to commence this fall.

GALLERY: 2013 Ford Explorer Sport