Test Fest : Best New Pick-Up

2007 Explorer Sport Trac
Redesigned for 2007, the Sport Trac rides on last year's Explorer platform, with new independant rear suspension making room for a wider, deeper box. The Sport Trac is utility-minded, with features such as storage holds

(Photo: Ford)

in the box, composite bed, an optional hard tonneau that can support up to 600 lbs of strapped on gear. Smaller than its competitors, the Sport Trac appeals to those looking for car-like handling. Engine and exhaust notes were pleasant. The automatic transmission seemed slow to shift, bogging and hunting for gears. Inside, the Sport Trac felt a bit cheaper than the other trucks tested. Materials used, while attractive enough, were lower in quality and met with wider gaps. It took several minutes for me to figure out how to open the doors from the inside - the door handles were weird, circular chrome affairs. Seats were comfortable enough, and leather covered. The dash ergonomics were fine, but looked dated. Steering was responsive and handling was good but on the soft side. Braking was quite good. Equipped with 4-Hi and 4-Lo, the Sport Trac has clearance enough for capable off-roading.

My choice for category winner is the Avalanche: versatile, loaded with heavy duty truck features and yet comfortable for driver and passengers. Not to mention fun to drive!


TECH SPEC SUMMARY

Cadillac Escalade EXT
Base price: 71,730$
Price as tested: 78,790$
6.2L V8
403 hp
6 speed automatic
All wheel-drive
ABS, Traction control, limited slip diff.

Chevrolet Avalanche
Base price: 42,230$
Price as tested: 43,295$
5.3L V8
320 hp
4 speed automatic
All wheel-drive
ABS, traction control, limited slip diff.

Ford Sport Trac Limited 4x4
Base price: 38,499$
Price as tested: 40,984$
4.6L V8
292 hp
6 speed automatic
All wheel-drive
ABS, Traction control