2009 Ford Explorer Sport Trac

NEW FOR 2009:

- Available next-generation voice-activated navigation system with single CD/DVD/MP3 player, DVD audio and DVD video capability, and internal hard disc drive with 10-gb Music Jukebox

- Adrenalin Package includes heated front seats

- Class III/IV Trailer Tow package includes trailer sway mitigation

- Exterior colours: Sangria Red and Dark Copper added

For 2009, the Ford Explorer Sport Trac is essentially unchanged, save for some additions to its available option packages. A new navigation system includes a music storage system and support for Sync, along with an auxiliary input.

Basically an Explorer with the rear end replaced with a pickup truck box, the Sport Trac uses a 4.0-litre V6 with five-speed automatic transmission, or 4.6-litre V8 with six-speed automatic. Both engines are available in XLT or Limited trim, and can be ordered as 4x2 or 4x4 models. All have four doors and a four-foot pickup box.

Features on the XLT include 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, black exterior accents, fog lamps, automatic headlamps, power mirrors with puddle lamps, black step bars, black roof side rails, SecuriCode keyless entry keypad, power windows, power sliding rear window, CD/MP3 stereo with auxiliary input and Sirius satellite radio, six-way power driver's seat, cloth bucket seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, rubber floor, heavy-duty floor mats, outside temperature display, compass, and cruise control.

The Limited adds 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, monochromatic exterior accents, silver-painted roof rails with black crossbars, hard tonneau cover, six-CD/MP3 stereo, two-toned leather-trimmed heated seats with ten-way power driver's adjustment, Sync, power-adjustable pedals, power sunroof, and reverse sensing system.

Available options on the XLT include Sync, power-adjustable pedals, sunroof, premium sound system, cargo bed extender, trailer tow package and tonneau cover. The Limited can be optioned with 20-inch wheels, the cargo bed extender, a Limited Chrome Package, or the Adrenalin Package, which adds all-wheel drive (in place of four-wheel drive), 20-inch wheels, unique fascias and other trim accents, charcoal instrument panel, perforated leather seat inserts and branded floor mats.

Although the bed isn't as large as on a regular pickup truck, the Sport Trac is surprisingly useful. It's comfortable for front-seat passengers and adequate for those in the rear; despite its size, it feels more nimble than the Explorer upon which it's based. The optional flip-out extender allows cargo to be carried on the tailgate for extra hauling ability.