2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac: Road Test
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2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac ▼
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- MSRP: $23,710 -$30,980
- Invoice: $21,527 -$27,997
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Our road test for the 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac help you decide if a 2004 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 4WD XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.8 |
Good off-the-line power, fine around-town response. V6 feels overtaxed only in highway passing or on mountain upgrades. Maximum towing capacity is 5300 lb.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 4WD XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 3.8 |
Test 4WD Sport Tracs averaged 15-16 mpg.
RIDE QUALITY
| 4WD XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.5 |
Acceptable despite some chassis reverberation after bumps and a suspension that's unforgiving over sharp ridges, especially in 4WD version.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4WD XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 3.7 |
Reasonably balanced with moderate body lean, but never nimble.
QUIETNESS
| 4WD XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 3 | 4.4 |
Not excessively loud for a truck-based vehicle, though tire and wind noise rise markedly with speed.
CONTROLS
| 4WD XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.2 |
Straightforward, logical, but a mild stretch to climate controls. Power-window switches illuminated. Novel back window powers up and down at the touch of a dashboard button. Interior materials range from serviceable to leather-fancy; workmanship solid.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 4WD XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.4 |
Step-in height somewhat high, but plenty of room, comfortable driving position.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 4WD XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 5.6 |
Roomier than any compact crew-cab pickup and most midsize SUVs, too. Ample space for two adults, and three can squeeze. Seat is hard, though, and lacks shoulder support.
CARGO ROOM
| 4WD XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 7.8 |
Good in-cabin storage, and split rear seatback folds in single motion without removing the headrests. Short 4-ft cargo bed benefits from optional bed extender that effectively adds about 2 ft.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 4WD XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.1 |
Compared to crew-cab pickup trucks, the novel Sport Trac offers more passenger space but a smaller cargo bed. If that combination suits you, it's a good choice as a multipurpose vehicle.
Total Score
| 4WD XLT Premium | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 49 | 52.3 |
Total Score: 49
Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
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