2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac [ 2007 ]
Based on analysis of 48 Explorer-Sport-Trac reviews and test drives.
Ford Explorer Sport Trac - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac ranks 4 out of 5 Sport Utility Trucks. This ranking is based on our analysis of 48 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Explorer Sport Trac, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Explorer Sport Trac's good towing capacity and versatility make it a good choice, but its fuel economy and value hurt its ranking in such a competitive class.
The second-generation 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac underwent a complete redesign for the last model year, giving it a new V8 engine, enhanced handling and greater cargo and towing capacity. 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 Reviewers are mostly positive about the changes, but the Explorer Sport Trac's practicality and versatility has tough competition in the top-ranked Honda Ridgeline. Although the Explorer Sport Trac bests the Ridgeline in nearly every category, it's hurt in the rankings by its perceived value. Most reviewers think the Ridgeline has better reliability and resale value. High gas prices are hitting the Sport Trac from two sides, as well: its fuel economy is only middle-of-the-pack, which scares away potential buyers and drives reseale value down even further.
- "An exceptionally quiet, comfortable ride, and an interior that's a clone of the attractive and refined Explorer SUV." -- the Detroit Free Press.
- "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." -- New Car Test Drive.
- "The Sport Trac offers a lot of half-SUV, half-truck for the money." -- BusinessWeek
Explorer-Sport-Trac Performance - 7.9 (Good)
Competitive power, precise steering and nearly car-like handling solidify the 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac as one of the top-performing sport utility trucks. Automobile.com notes, "I fell for its deliciously smooth V8 hustle. Unless taxed with demanding acceleration or hill climbing, the engine is near silent within normal operating parameters, with only a luxury-car burble to be heard." To learn more about the Sport Trac's powerful engine, read our full performance review. continue
Explorer-Sport-Trac Exterior - 7.8 (Good)
The Sport Trac's exterior is ranked near the top of the class with looks that 4x4REVIEW.com says are "rugged yet refined; sort of like the Marlboro man dressed up for a night on the town in an Armani suit." Read our full exterior review to find out if other reviewers feel the same way. You can also see our Ford Explorer Sport Trac pictures for yourself. continue
Explorer-Sport-Trac Interior - 7.4 (Good)
Although the 2008 Explorer Sport Trac's interior is "the highlight of this ride," for AutoWeek, it doesn't best the luxurious cabins of the Cadillac Escalade EXT or the Honda Ridgeline. To find out how the Sport Trac falls short, read our full interior review, or see our Explorer Sport Trac interior photos. continue
Explorer-Sport-Trac Safety - 8.6 (Very Good)
The 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac has a plentiful list of safety features and very good crash test scores. Ford says the current 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 2008 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 Sport Trac comes with Ford's three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty. continue
