2005 Ford Sport Trac Adrenalin Concept

Although the original vehicle was a success, the Explorer Sport Trac had a few problems its designers may never have anticipated,

The four foot-long bed has a 30 percent greater cargo carrying capacity thanks to taller rails and greater width. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

namely its high centre of gravity, along with a propensity to roll over, and the demand for a larger cabin and cargo bay. When designing the new concept, these issues were taken into account in order to meet the requests of the customer and to increase the vehicle's flexibility.

As such, the cabin is now five inches longer and two inches wider, while the four foot-long bed has a 30 percent greater cargo carrying capacity thanks to taller rails and greater width. In addition, small items can be stowed in 'saddlebags', located in the bedliner.

The slightly larger concept, with its 2,870 mm (113-inch) wheelbase and 1,525 mm (60-inch) track, is still compact, especially in comparison to the full-size F-150 or Ram-based competitor. Enhancing the truck's smaller dimensions is an SVT-tuned suspension system. The concept's front and rear independent suspension setup received a full workover, complete with special high-rate springs and dampers as well as anti-roll bars. Together, the combination of a light curb weight, compact dimensions and the

The Sport Trac Adrenalin is also available with the option of all-wheel drive - yet another first for the SVT team. (Photo: Ford Motor Company of Canada)

aggressively tuned suspension should make this the most agile, best-handling performance truck on the market.

But there's more up Ford's sleeve concerning performance. The Sport Trac Adrenalin is also available with the option of all-wheel drive - yet another first for the SVT team. Previous high-performance pickups have always relied on a rear-wheel drive layout to maximize straight-line performance and entertaining burnouts. With a system that's been configured to deliver 40:60-split power delivery, the Adrenalin maintains a rear bias allowing for ideal traction during hard launches and in slippery conditions, curing a long-time issue of muscle trucks.