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Ford wants to let the Adrenalin flow

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Alex Law
Addressing requests from current Sport Trac owners, the new model ''expands the multi-purpose flexibility current Explorer Sport Trac owners appreciate.''

(photo: Ford Explorer Sport Trac Adrenalin)
More interior room was created by stretching the current Sport Trac exterior dimensions by about 125 mm in length and 50 mm in width. Nearly a third more cargo space was created by the wider bed and taller bed rails, and the addition of a pair of lockable ''saddlebag'' compartments between the cab and rear wheel wells.

''Sport Trac Adrenalin also features superior driving dynamics,'' promises Hau Thai-Tang, the director of Advanced Product Creation and SVT Programs.

''Ford SVT has long been renowned for its 'chassis wizards' who deliver balanced, agile handling, even in the full-size F-150 pickup," says Thai-Tang. ''Considering its smaller dimensions, lighter weight and fully-independent suspension, the Sport Trac Adrenalin will rival the handling of some performance cars.''

Adrenalin features short- and long-arm front suspension, and a trailing-blade independent rear suspension. SVT-tuned shock and spring rates, as well as upgraded front and rear stabilizer bars, are ''designed to provide more aggressive, more controlled driving dynamics,'' says Thai-Tang. ''The independent rear suspension is tuned for ultimate control and driver feedback.''

Oversized brakes at all four corners help handle the velocity Adrenalin is capable of, and split-five-spoke 21-inch wheels - wrapped in 295/45R21 tires - ''allow ample airflow to keep the big binders cool during rigorous use.''

Lyons says the Sport Trac Adrenalin also addresses the requests of SVT Lightning enthusiasts for more seating and the option of all-wheel drive.

(photo: Ford Explorer Sport Trac Adrenalin)
''The Adrenalin evolves the fun-to-drive character of the Lightning,'' says Lyons, ''while addressing these requests.'' It features four full-sized doors, providing easy access to comfortable seating for four adults. The drivetrain is designed to accommodate rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive configurations, which is another first for an SVT vehicle.

''In addition to providing sure footing on slick surfaces,'' says Jay O'Connell, SVT chief engineer, ''there's a performance advantage to all-wheel drive. A longstanding problem with performance trucks was their inability to 'hook up' from a standing start without excessive wheelspin. This AWD system puts power down through all four tires, helping Adrenalin launch with impressive authority.''

O'Connell is quick to add that ''Driving enthusiasts weaned on rear-wheel drive performance vehicles need not fear that all the 'fun' of rear drive has been dialed out.''

The Sport Trac Adrenalin AWD system exhibits a 60/40-torque split biased to the rear, he explains, so as weight is transferred to the back set of wheels during takeoff, engine torque is delivered right where it's needed.
In addition, the all-wheel-drive system is paired with Ford's AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, which combine to provide an added measure of safety and control during slippery conditions or emergency maneuvers. ''As such,'' says Lyons, ''the Sport Trac Adrenalin offers safety and protection to match its impressive performance.''
photo:Ford Motor Company
Alex Law
Alex Law
Automotive expert