2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Review
2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Roomy cabin, strong optional V8, hidden storage compartments, ideal ride and handling balance.
Cons
- V8 can be thirsty, styling not for everyone, small cargo bed compared to traditional pickup trucks.
What’s new
After last year's redesign, the Ford Explorer Sport Trac enters 2008 with a handful of equipment upgrades. Side curtain airbags become standard on both trims, as do a power rear window, foglights and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The optional navigation system adopts voice activation technology and, later in the model year, the Ford "Sync" system (which integrates devices such as cell phones and MP3 players into the vehicle's controls) option debuts.
Edmunds says
If you're looking for midsize SUV passenger comfort along with a measure of pickup truck utility, the 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac merits consideration.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac XLT 4dr Crew Cab (4.0L 6cyl 5A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.36 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$251/mo for Explorer Sport Trac XLT
Explorer Sport Trac XLT
vs
$233/mo
Avg. Compact Truck
Vehicle overview
We're not sure if they teach this at U Penn's Wharton School of Business, but we can tell you that a basic tenet of American business seems to be "milk it for all it's worth." Perhaps that was Ford's line of thinking when it brought out the Explorer Sport Trac seven years ago.
After enjoying a decade of strong sales from its midsize Explorer SUV and noting that Americans can't seem to get enough when it comes to trucks, the company melded the Explorer SUV, minus its enclosed cargo hold, to a small pickup bed. In theory, this vehicle combined the passenger comfort and space of a four-door SUV with the cargo-hauling ability of a pickup. In practice, however, it missed its mark. We found both the handling (too much chassis flex) and the utility (pickup bed too small) to be poor in that compromised, first-generation version. Ford then applied the "If at first you don't succeed, try, try again" philosophy.
Last year brought an all-new Ford Explorer Sport Trac, which continues for 2008 with a handful of technical improvements. Highlights include newly standard side curtain airbags, voice activation for the optional navigation system and the (delayed) debut of Ford's "Sync" system (which integrates devices such as cell phones and MP3 players into the vehicle's controls).
Although the newest Sport Trac once again shares its basic platform with the Explorer, it rides on a 13-inch-longer wheelbase, so as to offer more passenger room and a larger cargo bed. Compared to its willowy predecessor, the current Sport Trac is four times stiffer and also boasts an independent rear suspension. The benefits are dramatically improved ride comfort and handling dynamics. Other strong points of the current Sport Trac include a bigger, more functional bed (with three built-in storage compartments), an available 292-horsepower V8 (coupled to a six-speed automatic transmission) and plenty of safety features.
Unlike its half-baked precursor, the 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac makes a sound business case for itself. A traditional midsize crew cab pickup may offer more ultimate hauling ability, but chances are it wouldn't be able to match the Sport Trac in terms of passenger space and comfort, not to mention handling and ride balance. These characteristics make the Sport Trac ideal for those who want a useful amount of pickup utility along with the family-friendly nature of a midsize SUV. The Sport Trac's only real competition in this ultra-niche market is Honda's Ridgeline. The Ridgeline is another good choice, though it doesn't offer as much towing capacity and has rather ungainly styling that may be a turnoff for some folks.
Performance & mpg
Standard power for the 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a 4.0-liter V6 (210 hp and 254 pound-feet of torque) mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. Optional is a 4.6-liter V8 (292 hp and 300 lb-ft) coupled to a six-speed automatic. Either is available with rear- or four-wheel drive. The latter, dubbed "Control Trac," offers three modes. The 4x4 Auto mode is the typical everyday setting as it routes power only to the rear wheels until they slip, at which point power is also sent to the front wheels. The 4x4 High mode provides a 50/50 power split to the front and rear wheels, making it ideal for off-road or severe winter conditions. The 4x4 Low mode is for the really deep stuff, steep grades and pulling a boat out of the water.
Although it provides a smooth, broad powerband, our testing revealed the V8's performance to be about the same or less than V6-powered import crew cab pickups. Still, acceleration is brisk for a 2-ton truck, with 60 mph coming up in 8.1 seconds. Towing capacity is where the Sport Trac shines, as it easily bests most rivals with its 6,800-pound maximum (2WD version) when properly equipped. Fuel consumption for the 2008 V6 2WD Sport Trac is rated at 14 mpg city and 20 mpg highway, while the V8 posts a 13/20 mpg rating.
Safety
Antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags are all standard. In government crash testing, the Explorer Sport Trac earned five stars (the best possible) in both frontal- and side-impact tests. In the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety frontal-offset crash test, the Sport Trac scored "Good," the highest rating possible.
Driving
With a fully independent suspension, well-tuned dampers and springs, admirable road isolation and a surprisingly responsive steering system, the 2008 Sport Trac is a pleasure to drive and ride in. Handling is sure-footed, though aggressive cornering will bring in the conservative stability control system. The ride is almost luxury-car plush, and the combination of the chassis' robust integrity and liberal use of noise insulation provides a hushed cabin. Ford claims that at 40 mph, the Sport Trac is a full 5 decibels quieter than a Honda Ridgeline.
Interior
The handsome cabin boasts solid build quality and simple controls. Practical features include an easily cleaned rubber floor with Berber carpeted mats, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat and displays for outside temperature and a compass. There's a trio of power points: two in the cabin and one in the bed, and that 4.5-foot cargo box is made of corrosion-proof composite material with a molded-in liner that resists scratches and dents. The box is notched, allowing one to place two 2x4s across the span to provide tiered storage of building materials. Three cargo bins are built into the bed's load floor and feature drain plugs that allow them to be used as ice boxes or storage for wet items.
2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac models
The 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac is essentially an Explorer SUV modified to include a small pickup-like cargo bed. Two trim levels are offered: XLT and Limited.
The well-equipped XLT features a composite cargo box, 16-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, power rear window, foglights, keyless entry, cruise control, air-conditioning, a drop-in storage bin with power points, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a CD player. The Limited adds color-keyed bumpers and side mirrors, sidestep bars, 18-inch alloy wheels, power-adjustable pedals, the Homelink system and a power driver seat.
Major options include a heated windshield, a sunroof, leather seating, a navigation system (with voice operation), an upgraded sound system, the Ford Sync system and, for the cargo box, a cagelike bed extender and a hard tonneau cover.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
3.5 out of 5 stars3.5/5Above Average
#30 out of 32 among Midsize SUVs
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Ford Explorer Sport Trac from 2008-2022.$493/yr
vs. $485/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).1.5x/yr
vs. 1.18x/yr
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).19%
vs. 13.5%
for Average Midsize SUV
for Average Midsize SUV
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac.
5 star(72%)
4 star(17%)
3 star(7%)
2 star(4%)
1 star(0%)
29 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.88 out of 5 stars
All Fords Trucks Need This Style
Dennis, 06/30/2010
2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac XLT 4dr Crew Cab (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
Test drove several different full-size trucks models including Ford. Had an F- 150 for 11 years. Not much had changed on the interior including, entire front display panel and radio. I was disappointed with this until I test dove the Sport Trac. It's like getting the inside comfort and styling of a luxury car, yet with the manly toughness and sporty styling of a truck. I get 23 mpg on … the highway and 17 mpg in town. This is slightly better than my previous F-150. My family and I really enjoy going places in this remarkable vehicle.
5 out of 5 stars
Would've never thought it
rd2007, 08/22/2008
2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac XLT 4dr Crew Cab (4.6L 8cyl 6A)
I was a Ford hater and never would have considered buying one. I was initially looking at the Avalanche and while reading reviews I noticed some positive ones for the SportTrac. I went to the dealership and was also looking at the Expedition, but they could not get me the numbers I wanted so I decided to try out the SportTrac. I took a drive in it and was amazed at how well it drove. … It's quiet, smooth, and the V-8 has plenty of go in it. So far I have had it for two months and it's been perfect. My mileage has been about 15-16 overall, but that is mostly because I tend to have a little fun now and then. It's the same mileage my CX-7 got and that thing didn't have anywhere near the room.
4.25 out of 5 stars
Primary Vehicle
J. Hines, 07/02/2010
2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac XLT 4dr Crew Cab (4.0L 6cyl 5A)
Pretty much satisfied with the vehicle. Only drawbacks are fuel economy, of which I am getting close to 18 mpg around town, and the tire pressure indicator keeps going off. Have had 2 dealerships look at the tire pressure indicator but no solution yet.
4.88 out of 5 stars
My little bull truck
melody, 05/03/2010
2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Limited 4dr Crew Cab 4WD (4.6L 8cyl 6A)
In the year of Jan. 2009 we had a snow storm that surprised some of the locals i had left work at 1:00 AM driving slow on highway I 40 freeway and noticed vehicles losing control including a couple of police cars in front of me when the one police officers auto was sliding backwards the officer did manage to get his auto in control and i drove with my new 2008 sport track all wheel drive … up the icy hwy with no problems and i felt very safe in my truck on the icy roads. I am very happy I bought this little bull, that left every one in the dust. Yea!
2008 Explorer Sport Trac Highlights
XLT
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $25,400 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 16 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $251/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Max Towing Capacity | 5,260 lbs. |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Explorer Sport Trac include:
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalGood
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintPoor
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