2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac: Road Test
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2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac ▼
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- MSRP: $24,295 -$29,870
- Invoice: $22,977 -$28,105
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Our road test for the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac includes a full evaluation of the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac help you decide if a 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 |
Only 4WD Limited V8 made available for test so far. It's lively. Sport Tracs weigh a bit less than comparable Explorer SUVs, so expect under 7.5 sec 0-60 mph with V8. Automatic transmission smooth, but can be slow to kick down at midrange passing speeds. Towing capacity: 5310 lb with V6, 6800 lb with V8.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 3.7 |
Test V8 4WD Limiteds averaged just 12.4-13.5 mpg. Both engines use regular-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.6 |
Mimics Explorer wagons' fine, truck-type SUV comfort, and bests all rival pickups except Ridgeline. Solid structure enhances ride even with Limited's 18-inch tires (XLTs use 16s or 17s). Rear end resists hop over sharp bumps, even unloaded.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.9 |
Again mimics its SUV parent, but longer wheelbase makes Sport Trac slightly less maneuverable in close quarters. Cornering lean moderate, steering a bit slow, numb. Stopping power good, though brakes slightly grabby on test example.
QUIETNESS
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.5 |
A close second to Ridgeline for overall compact-pickup refinement. Wind noise low up to 70 mph, but coarse-surface tire thrum at most any speed. V8 roars at full throttle, quiets down nicely for cruising.
CONTROLS
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5.9 |
Most interior features come from Explorer SUV, including basic dashboard with clear gauges, mostly convenient controls, though transmission shift lever blocks easy access to climate system and turn signal stalk mounted at awkward angle. Optional navigation system, also shared with SUV, easy enough to use, but needs larger screen. Test Limited's cabin has classy, durable decor, but also a few rough edges and few soft-touch surfaces.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.3 |
Slightly shorter seat tracks give a bit less leg room than in Explorer SUVs, but most occupants won't want for space. Seats comfortable, though cushions a bit short in the thigh. Good visibility despite thickish rear-roof posts. Step-in fairly lofty, but manageable, though running boards hinder as much as help.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 2.9 |
Ford says rear seat space equals that of Explorer SUV, but Sport Trac feels a bit tighter for foot and head room. Three medium-sized adults can ride with little cramping, but uninviting bench seat is low to floor, flat, not well-padded. Entry/exit OK, but no easier than in SUV despite Sport Trac's longer rear doors.
CARGO ROOM
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 4.1 |
Bed floor is high enough to give pause in heavy cargo loading. Tailgate locks. So do covered floor storage wells, but these are a stretch to reach from outside--and two are just six-pack size. Spare tire stows in its own compartment. Ford claims 37.5 cu ft beneath the heavy optional bed cover, which folds in half but needs two people to remove or replace. Plasticlike construction implies good cargo-box durability. External tie-down cleats are handy. Rear seatbacks fold flat for great in-cab cargo room, but don't flip up. Small-item storage just OK.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 |
Its 2007 redesign puts Sport Trac in step with its parent SUV for performance and refinement, plus key safety features such as the standard antiskid system and available curtain side airbags. Fuel economy with the V8 is a big negative. Sport Trac is also more "trucky" than the Honda Ridgeline, but this "Explorer pickup" deserves a look.
Total Score
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 55 | 54 | 45.9 |
Total Score: 55
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