2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is largely unchanged. 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. An optional Adrenalin Package for the 4WD Limited includes all-wheel drive. All Explorer Sport Trac models are available with a 210-hp 4.0-liter V6 engine or a 292-hp 4.6-liter V8. Both engines use an automatic transmission, a 5-speed on the V6 and a 6-speed on the V8. Maximum towing capacity is 5250 lb with the V6 and 7160 lb with the 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. Ford's Sync, which allows voice control for cell phones and MP3 players, is available. The available navigation system includes real-time traffic, weather, gas prices, sports, and movie information.

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.

New for 2009 is the Suzuki Equator.