The Ford Explorer started out as a 4-door replacement to the Bronco II which was a midsize option to the Ford Bronco. And while the Bronco remained a true SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle), the Explorer transformed more into a car than a SUV. One of the best things that has probably happened to the Explorer is taking over the Police Interceptor duties from the loss of the Crown Victoria. To be a Police Interceptor means that the car would need more horsepower. If you’re putting performance into a Ford Explorer, why not offer a civilian performance version of it? Enter the Explorer ST.
The Ford Explorer ST comes with a turbocharged 3.0-liter EcoBoost making 400-horsepower. But for some people, even that’s not enough. This Explorer actually makes 657-horsepower at the wheels!
Since the aftermarket is largely void of performance parts for the Explorer ST, a custom exhaust was built by FENFabrication. Level 10 Transmissions fortified the stock 10-speed automatic transmission with a Circle D converter. Aftermarket turbos, a Whipple intercooler, a new fuel system, and some E60 later, and the Explorer was pumping out a healthy 657 horsepower at the wheels.
Underneath, the Explorer received a host of upgrades which include modified Mustang parts from Air Lift Performance, Slam Specialities, and Viking Performance, which help it hug the ground and hook up at the track, lightweight 20-inch Magnesium Performance wheels, and a Rotora big brake kit with eight-piston calipers up front and four-piston units in the rear. All of the work gets this badass Explorer through the quarter mile in 10.94-seconds.
