2015 Ford Explorer Gets Sporty Appearance Package - Photo Gallery

The Blue Oval's seven-seater crossover has been refreshed for the 2015 model year with a new sports-inspired appearance pack which includes a handful of visual touches, as well as a few comfort and technological upgrades. Three all-new exterior colors are also available for the 2015 Ford Explorer.

Starting later this June, the XLT model can be further enhanced from its factory credentials by adding the aforementioned appearance package, which makes the Ford Explorer look like the Sport variant without compromising ride comfort or other features.

20-inch machined aluminum rims with painted pockets, mirror caps and front grille painted in Magnetic Metallic, black body-side cladding and roof rack rails and a liftgate appliqué give the SUV a far more striking visual identity than the standard XLT model. So what's there as far as the cabin is concerned?

Well, highlights include heated front seats wrapped in leather and Miko suede inserts, also adorned with visually pleasant contrast stitching. Matching floor mats complete the interior look of the all-new appearance pack.

However, the package also comes with technological upgrades such as an auto-dimming rearview mirror and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with two USB ports for your MP3s and an SD memory card reader.

Matt Zuehlk, Ford Explorer brand manager, declared that this package carries "a surprising value," being priced at $1,195. The 2015 Ford Explorer XLT starts from $32,900, while the $30,600 entry-level model now comes as standard with redesigned 18-inch aluminum wheels.