2007-2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac: Road Test

Only the 4WD Limited V8 has been tested, and it's a lively truck. Sport Tracs weigh a bit less than comparable Explorer SUVs, so expect under 7.5-second acceleration to 60 mph with the V8. The automatic transmission is smooth, but can be slow to kick down at midrange passing speeds. Towing capacity is 5260 pounds with the V6, 7160 pounds with the V8. Fuel economy must be called dismal, even among pickup trucks. Test V8 4WD Limiteds averaged just 12.4 to 13.5 mpg. Both engines use regular-grade fuel. Ride quality mimics the Explorer wagon's fine, truck-type SUV comfort, and bests all rival pickups except for Honda's Ridgeline. Solid structure enhances the ride even with the Limited's 18-inch tires (XLTs use 16s or 17s). The rear end resists hop over sharp bumps, even unloaded. Steering and handling again mimic its SUV parent, but a longer wheelbase makes Sport Trac slightly less maneuverable in close quarters. Cornering lean is moderate. Steering is a bit slow and numb. Stopping power is good, though brakes felt slightly grabby on one test example. Sport Trac ranks a close second to Ridgeline for overall compact-pickup refinement. Wind noise is low up to 70 mph, but coarse-surface tire thrum occurs at most any speed. The V8 roars at full throttle, but quiets down nicely for cruising. Most interior features come from the Explorer SUV, including the basic dashboard with its clear gauges and mostly convenient controls. Two exceptions: the transmission shift lever blocks easy access to the climate system and the turn-signal stalk is mounted at an awkward angle. The optional navigation system, also shared with Ford SUVs, is easy enough to use but needs a larger screen. One test Limited's cabin had a classy, durable decor, but also a few rough edges and few soft-touch surfaces. Slightly shorter seat tracks give a bit less front legroom than an Explorer SUV's, but most occupants won't complain about any shortage of space. Seats are comfortable, though cushions are a bit short in the thigh. Visibility is good despite somewhat thick rear-roof posts. Step-in is fairly lofty, but manageable, though running boards hinder as much as help. Ford said rear-seat space equaled that of an Explorer SUV, but Sport Trac feels a bit tighter for foot- and headroom. Three medium-sized adults can ride with little cramping, but the uninviting bench seat is low to the floor, flat, and not well padded. Entry/exit is passable, but no easier than in the SUV despite Sport Trac's longer rear doors. Because the Sport Trac's bed floor is rather high, loading of heavy cargo can turn into a chore. The tailgate locks. So do covered floor storage wells, but these are a stretch to reach from outside-and two are just six-pack size. The spare tire stows in its own compartment. Ford claimed 37.5 cubic feet beneath the heavy optional bed cover, which folds in half but needs two people to remove or replace. Plastic-like 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 is adequate but no more.

Value for the Money
Redesigning for 2007 put the 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 factor. Sport Trac is also more "trucky" than the Honda Ridgeline, but this "Explorer pickup" deserves a look if you seek a truck's utility but don't want-or need-a traditional full-size model.