2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac: Road Test
2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac ▼
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- MSRP: $27,810 - $35,190
- Invoice: $25,937 - $32,653
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Our road test for the 2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac help you decide if a 2010 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.4 |
Only 4WD V8 models have been made available for testing. Sport Tracs weigh a bit less than comparable Explorer SUVs, making them feel lively. The automatic transmission is smooth, but can be slow to kick down at midrange passing speeds.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2.9 |
Poor, even among V8 pickup trucks. In Consumer Guide testing, we averaged just 12.4-13.5 mpg. Both engines use regular-grade gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3.8 |
Sport Trac mimics the Explorer wagons' fine ride control and bests nearly all rival pickups. Its solid structure further enhances ride quality. The rear end resists hopping over sharp bumps, even when unloaded.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.3 |
Again, Sport Trac mimics its SUV parent, but its longer wheelbase makes Sport Trac slightly less maneuverable in close quarters. Cornering lean is moderate and the steering is a bit slow and numb. Stopping control is good, though the brakes felt slightly grabby on one test example.
QUIETNESS
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3.7 |
A close second to the pace-setting Honda Ridgeline for overall compact-pickup refinement. Wind noise is low up to 70 mph, but coarse-surface tire thrum is noticeable at most any speed. The V8 roars at full throttle, but quiets down nicely for cruising.
CONTROLS
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 5 |
Most interior features come from the Explorer SUV, including the basic dashboard with clear gauges. The transmission shift lever blocks easy access to the climate system, and the turn signal stalk is mounted at an awkward angle. The navigation system is easy enough to use, but it could use a larger screen for best access and legibility.
DETAILS
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 3.6 |
Sport Trac Limited's cabin is more durable than luxurious. Soft-touch surfaces are scarce, and test models exhibited a few rough edges.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.7 |
Slightly shorter seat tracks give a bit less legroom than in Explorer SUVs, but most occupants won't want for space. The seats are comfortable, though the cushions are a bit short in the thigh. Good visibility despite thick rear-roof posts. Step-in is fairly lofty, but manageable. The running boards don't help much.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 2.5 |
Ford says rear seat space equals that of the Explorer SUV, but Sport Trac feels a bit tighter for foot space 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 and exit are OK, but no easier than in the SUV despite Sport Trac's longer rear doors.
CARGO ROOM
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3.2 |
The bed floor is high enough to give pause before loading heavy cargo. The tailgate locks. So do the covered floor storage wells, but these are a stretch to reach from the outside--and two are just six-pack size. The 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. 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 just OK.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.3 |
Explorer Sport Trac is in step with its parent SUV for performance, refinement, and available safety features. Fuel economy with the V8 is a big negative, and Sport Trac is also more "trucky" than the Honda Ridgeline. If you desire a truck's utility but don't want or need a traditional full-size model, this "Explorer pickup" deserves a look.
Total Score
| 4WD Limited V8 | 4WD Limited V8 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 56 | 55 | 42.4 |
Total Score: 56
Scores for all Compact Pickup Trucks
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