Ford pioneered the "sport/utility truck" segment with the original Explorer Sport Trac. Based on the previous-generation Explorer, the Sport Trac combined a five-passenger cabin, short pickup bed, and sporty demeanor into an affordable, distinctive ride. Its two main short comings were limited cargo capacity and dated ride dynamics. The next-gen Sport Trac improves on the formula, and addresses these acknowledged issues. The Explorer Sport Trac concept is nearly five inches longer, two inches wider, and sits two inches lower than today's current Sport Trac model. The bed is 30 percent larger, though there is no Chevy Avalanche-like pass-through midgate. Vehicle dynamics are much improved with an independent rear suspension and 4.6L V-8 engine. The production-intended truck is thinly disguised in this SEMA-like sport transformation, with 21-inch wheels, shaved door handles, aluminum accents, lowered right height, four captains chairs, and striking two-tone interior. Insiders confide that many of these features could appear on a special-edition production model.
