Ford preps new Explorer Sport Trac
By Dale Jewett
Automotive News
Ford on Thursday offered a preview of the Explorer Sport Trac concept scheduled for the Detroit auto show in January.
The concept uses the current Explorer SUV platform, which contributes to it being 2 inches wider and 5 inches longer than the current Sport Trac. That vehicle uses the previous-generation Explorer platform, which was replaced on the SUV in mid 2001.
Ford says the concept's truck bed is 30 percent larger. The interior is marked by four bucket seats with a center console that stretches to the back of the cabin.
The platform switch brings a better handling, independent rear suspension and the automaker's 4.6-liter V-8 engine to the concept. It is also equipped with Ford's anti-rollover technology, which combines a sensor to detect vehicle tilt with the stability control system.
Ford says the concept signals its plans for the next generation vehicle, without confirming that the program is approved. Two touches on the concept -- 21-inch wheels and power-opening doors (sans exterior handles) -- would not likely be on a production version.
The Explorer Sport Trac is destined for a redesign for the 2007 model year, according to the Automotive News Future Product series. The Explorer and platform sibling Mercury Mountaineer are scheduled to be re-engineered for the 2006 or 2007 model year.
The Lincoln Aviator, which now uses the Explorer platform, is expected to shift to a unibody platform for the 2007 model year.
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Stacy94PGT
My first car was a 67 Mustang Coupe, 2nd one was a 67 Cougar XR-7, 3rd one was a 66 Mustang Coupe. Why did I get rid of these cars for ? I know why, because I'm stupid, stupid, stupid.
My next Ford.....
