2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac and Sport: Road Test
2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac and Sport ▼
- MSRP: $21,870 - $29,235
- Invoice: $19,899 - $26,454
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Our road test for the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac and Sport includes a full evaluation of the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac and Sport from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac and Sport, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac and Sport help you decide if a 2003 Ford Explorer Sport Trac and Sport is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 4WD Sport XLT, auto. | 4WD Sport Trac XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.9 |
V6 provides good off-the-line power and fine around-town response, feeling overtaxed only in highway passing or on mountain upgrades.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 4WD Sport XLT, auto. | 4WD Sport Trac XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.7 |
Test Sport and Sport Trac models averaged 15-16 mpg in our tests, about par for a 6-cyl midsize SUV. Ford recommends 87-octane fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 4WD Sport XLT, auto. | 4WD Sport Trac XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 4 | 4.4 |
Sport Trac has longer wheelbase than Sport, and far better ride, though it's still unforgiving over sharp bumps, especially the 4WD model. Sport has a bouncy, unpleasant ride on most any surface.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4WD Sport XLT, auto. | 4WD Sport Trac XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 3 | 3.5 |
Sport Trac has more-accurate steering and takes corners with slightly less body lean than Sport, though both handle with reasonable balance and confidence.
QUIETNESS
| 4WD Sport XLT, auto. | 4WD Sport Trac XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.1 |
Not car-quiet, but not excessively loud for a truck-based wagon, though tire and wind noise rise markedly with speed.
CONTROLS
| 4WD Sport XLT, auto. | 4WD Sport Trac XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.1 |
Straightforward and logical, but a mild stretch to climate controls. Power-window switches are illuminated. Sport Trac's novel back window powers up and down at touch of dashboard button--great for ventilation. Materials range from serviceable to leather-fancy; workmanship is solid.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 4WD Sport XLT, auto. | 4WD Sport Trac XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
Step-in height is slightly taller than SUV norm, but there's plenty of room and a comfortable driving position.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 4WD Sport XLT, auto. | 4WD Sport Trac XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 6 | 5.4 |
Sport Trac's rear seat is roomier than that of any compact crew-cab pickup. There's ample space for two adults, and three can squeeze in. Sport's 2-dr body makes getting in and out a real chore, and for cramped accommodations for two once aboard. Seat in both models is hard and lacks much shoulder support.
CARGO ROOM
| 4WD Sport XLT, auto. | 4WD Sport Trac XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 7.8 |
Good in-cabin storage, and both models' split rear seatback folds in single motion without removing the headrests. Sport has ample cargo room and separate-opening liftglass. For Sport Trac, we recommend the optional bed extender that effectively lengthens the bed about 2 ft. Both models have undercarriage spare-tire storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 4WD Sport XLT, auto. | 4WD Sport Trac XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 5 | 5 |
The uncomfortable 2-dr Sport is of limited appeal, while the Sport Trac has a deserved following based on its unique blend of passenger space and open-bed versatility.
Total Score
| 4WD Sport XLT, auto. | 4WD Sport Trac XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 40 | 49 | 51.2 |
Total Score: 40
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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