2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac has a few new available features following its 2007 redesign. This crew-cab pickup truck is based on Ford's Explorer SUV but has a 4x5-ft open cargo bed. Sport Trac seats five. XLT and Limited trims are available, both with rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes a low-range gear for off-roading. A 210-hp 4.0-liter V6 engine is standard; a 292-hp 4.6-liter V8 is available. Both engines use an automatic transmission: a 5-speed on the V6, a 6-speed on the V8. Maximum towing capacity is 5260 lb with V6 and 7160 lb with V8. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. The cargo box has three in-floor covered bins with drain plugs. New available features for 2008 include voice control for the optional navigation system and Ford's Sync, which allows voice control for cell phones and MP3 players.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Pickups offer a true-truck design in a relatively modest package. They are best suited for personal or light-duty use rather than commercial use, heavy hauling, or towing.

Our Best Buy is the Toyota Tacoma. Our Recommended picks are the Dodge Dakota, Honda Ridgeline, and Nissan Frontier.