2007 Ford Explorer Sport Trac -- It's No Ridgeline

post from Karl on Cars on 05 April 2006 02:04:16 PM. © Karl on Cars

It was telling to drive this vehicle after spending the weekend in the Ridgeline. The two cars are quite similar in many respects, though I think they ultimately appeal to different buyers. I've always really liked the current Explorer's driving dynamics, and find it clearly superior to the GM equivalents. I also like the Explorer's fully functional third-row seat. Now that the Sport Trac is on the same platform it benefits from the improved chassis, but not the increased passenger capacity. However, I've grown ever more impatient with the Explorer's (and many other Ford's) dated interior design, and the Sport Trac continues that tradition, too. As just one example, let's talk about the radio and climate displays. I remember those skinny, green letters and numbers in my dad's 1986 Lincoln. Back then they were kind of '80s, Tron-like cool. Now they just look old and hard to read (especially on bright days). The door panel plastic is exceedingly hard, even by domestic truck standards (and no, the overwrought "texturizing" of this plastic doesn't make up for it). There are many who feel like the steering wheel-shifter-pedal relationship on these trucks is off, too. This was certainly true of the previous Mustang, but I'm okay with the Explorer/Sport Trac set up (though the Ridgeline's is better). The steering feel is quite good.

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