Are Ford Explorer Sport Trac good on gas?
The Ford Explorer Sport Trac is a midsize pickup truck that was produced by Ford from 2001 to 2010. While the Sport Trac offered a unique blend of utility and comfort, its fuel efficiency was not its strongest suit. In general, the Ford Explorer Sport Trac is not considered a particularly gas-efficient vehicle, especially when compared to more modern and fuel-efficient pickup trucks and SUVs.
Fuel Economy Ratings for the Ford Explorer Sport Trac
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Ford Explorer Sport Trac had the following fuel economy ratings:
- 2WD models: 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway, 17 mpg combined
- 4WD models: 14 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, 16 mpg combined
These fuel economy figures were on the lower end even for the time period when the Sport Trac was produced. The truck's combination of a large V6 engine, body-on-frame construction, and relatively heavy weight contributed to its relatively poor gas mileage.
Factors Affecting the Sport Trac's Fuel Efficiency
Several factors influenced the Ford Explorer Sport Trac's fuel efficiency:
- Engine Size: The Sport Trac was available with a 4.0-liter V6 engine, which provided adequate power but was not optimized for fuel economy.
- Truck-Based Platform: The Sport Trac was built on the same body-on-frame platform as the Ford Explorer SUV, which added weight and reduced aerodynamics compared to more modern unibody designs.
- Four-Wheel Drive: 4WD models of the Sport Trac had even lower fuel efficiency ratings than the 2WD versions due to the additional drivetrain components and weight.
- Age of Design: The Sport Trac was introduced in the early 2000s, before many of the latest fuel-saving technologies were widely adopted in the automotive industry.
Overall, the Ford Explorer Sport Trac was not known for its impressive fuel economy, especially when compared to more modern and efficient pickup trucks and SUVs on the market today. Buyers seeking a more gas-friendly midsize truck or SUV may want to consider other options.
Is the Ford Explorer good on gas?
The 2024 Ford Explorer base model boasts impressive mpg estimates, reaching up to 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway with rear-wheel drive and a four-cylinder engine.
How reliable is the Ford Explorer Sport Trac?
Are Ford Explorer Sport Tracs Reliable? Owners have reported the Ford Explorer Sport Trac to be quite reliable. RepairPal gives it 3.5/5 stars for reliability. Despite its reliability, there are some years of the Ford Explorer Sport Trac that owners warn against owning.
Do Ford Explorers use a lot of gas?
The 2021 Ford Explorer has a gas mileage of up to an EPA-estimated 21 city/28 highway MPG on gas-powered models.
Are Fords good on gas?
2022 Ford Fuel Economy Ratings
The most fuel-efficient Ford SUV is the 2022 Ford EcoSport, which offers up to 29 highway mpg. The 2022 Ford Edge and 2022 Explorer are also strong contenders with up to 28 highway mpg.
Which Ford Explorer engine is best?
You'll find the best fuel efficiency in the Ford Explorer with the 2.3L EcoBoost I4 engine and RWD, which has 20 city and 29 highway MPG.
What is the best year for Ford Explorer Sport?
Best Ford Explorer Model Years
We recommend buying a used Ford Explorer beginning with the fourth generation, or model years of 2006 to 2010. In particular, we'd single out the 2009 and 2010 editions as among the more reliable earlier model years.
How far can a Ford Explorer go on a full tank?
The 2021 Ford Explorer has a 510-mile fuel range, however, this distance might differ depending on the model.
Why did Ford stop making Sport Trac?
Sluggish sales spelled the end of the Explorer Sport Trac
The benefits are lighter construction, niftier handling, a smoother ride, and better fuel economy.
How long will a Ford Explorer Sport Trac last?
According to MotorBiscuit.com, the average Ford Explorer can last anywhere from 80,000 miles to 200,000 miles. SUV owners looking to surpass 200,000 miles will need to provide their vehicle with the proper care. This range could mean your vehicle lasts anywhere from 10 to 20 years.
Does a Ford Explorer use regular gas?
The 2023 Ford Explorer takes regular unleaded gasoline. All of the engine options in the 2023 Explorer are compatible with regular 87 octane gasoline.