2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac [ 2008 ]
Ford Explorer Sport Trac
Overall Score - 7.6 (Good)
The Explorer Sport Trac delivers good towing capacity and versatility, but can't match the fuel economy or value of other vehicles in its class.
The second-generation Ford Explorer Sport Trac underwent a complete redesign for 2007, giving it a new V8 engine, enhanced handling and greater cargo and towing capacity. "The result is a roomier Sport Trac with an exceptionally quiet, comfortable ride, and an interior that's a clone of the attractive and refined Explorer SUV," says the Detroit Free Press. Reviewers agree that the five-seat sport utility truck is perfect for those who require some truck-type cargo capacity, but don't need an enclosed cargo space or full-size truck bed. "...Sport Trac has the amenities of an SUV, though without the enclosed wagon back, and the capabilities of a pickup, without the hauling capacity. Not exactly the best of both worlds, but a practical and versatile vehicle just the same," concludes New Car Test Drive.
Reviewers feel the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is at the top end of its segment for cost. With options, a Limited model can top out upwards of $30,000. But BusinessWeek still feels the Sport Trac is worth the sometimes-hefty price tag: "Though it can get pricey -- depending on the options one tacks on -- the Sport Trac offers a lot of half-SUV, half-truck for the money." However, Kelley Blue Book expects the Sport Trac "will have a lower resale value than other vehicles in its class, retaining just 32 percent of its value over 60 months." Similarly, IntelliChoice gives the base model a "worse than average" value rating for its predicted five-year total cost of ownership, compared to other vehicles in its class.
The Ford Explorer Sport Trac has two available trims: the base XLT and the Limited. Both are available as a 4X2 or as a 4X4 and with your choice of a 4.0 L V6 or a 4.6L V8.
Explorer Sport Trac Performance - 8.1 (Very Good)
Reviewers have mixed opinions on the 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac's performance and driving experience. MSN enjoys the ride, saying the Sport Trac "is fun to drive, even for a truck, with precise steering, almost car-like handling and brakes that provide decent stopping distances." continue
Explorer Sport Trac Exterior - 7.8 (Good)
The 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac's exterior received mixed reactions from reviewers. The exterior strikes "that delicate balance between street style and off-road character, and the Ford designers have managed to make it look not exactly like a work truck, but not exactly like a soccer-mom sport utility vehicle, either," says Kelley Blue Book. continue
Explorer Sport Trac Interior - 7.5 (Good)
The 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac receives general praise for its interior, which AutoWeek calls "the highlight of this ride." Kelley Blue Book says, "On balance, the Sport Trac's interior accommodations and cargo versatility are so appealing that every new owner will probably just love the thing." continue
Explorer Sport Trac Safety - 8.6 (Very Good)
The 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac boasts favorable crash test scores and a plentiful list of safety features. Ford says the 2007 model has been designed to meet all known safety requirements through 2010 -- which is probably why side-impact airbags for the front seat come standard. continue
Explorer Sport Trac Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Explorer Sport Trac comes with a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. continue
