How many miles per gallon does a 2000 Ford Sport Trac get?
The 2000 Ford Sport Trac, which combined a pickup bed with an SUV's versatility, typically returns fuel economy in the high-teens to low-twenties range depending on drivetrain and conditions. In short, expect roughly 16–22 mpg, with 2WD versions edging higher on highway runs and 4WD versions slightly lower overall.
To understand this figure in more detail, it helps to recall that the Sport Trac used a 4.0-liter V6 engine paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The mpg figures issued by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) for this model year varied by whether the truck was two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). Real-world results can differ based on terrain, payload, maintenance, and driving style.
EPA numbers by drivetrain
Before listing the official estimates, note that these numbers reflect standardized EPA testing from the era and may differ from everyday driving.
- Two-wheel drive (2WD) with 4.0L V6 and 4-speed automatic — EPA estimates: about 17 mpg city / 22 mpg highway (combined roughly 19–20 mpg).
- Four-wheel drive (4WD) with 4.0L V6 and 4-speed automatic — EPA estimates: about 16 mpg city / 20 mpg highway (combined roughly 18 mpg).
These figures provide a baseline for what to expect in typical highway and city conditions. Real-world mileage often falls a little short of EPA numbers, especially when the vehicle is loaded, driven aggressively, or used in mixed conditions.
Real-world mileage considerations
Owners and testers note that the Sport Trac’s mileage can be sensitive to payload and bed usage. Carrying gear in the bed or towing can reduce fuel economy noticeably, as can frequent stop-and-go city driving versus steady highway cruising. Age-related factors—such as engine wear, transmission health, and air-fuel mixture performance—can also influence MPG over time.
What affects fuel economy most
To maximize efficiency, consider these influences commonly cited for older trucks like the Sport Trac:
- Tire condition and proper pressure
- Engine tune-up and drivetrain maintenance
- Payload and weight distribution
- Aerodynamics and bed contents
By maintaining the vehicle and adapting driving habits, drivers may squeeze a bit more efficiency from the Sport Trac, though it remains a mid-size pickup with a relatively thirsty operating envelope by modern standards.
Tips to maximize mpg
Below are practical steps you can take to improve fuel economy in a 2000 Sport Trac or similar model:
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure and align wheels as needed.
- Tune up the engine, replace air filters, and use the correct grade of fuel.
- Lighten payload when possible and distribute weight evenly.
- Drive at steady speeds, anticipate traffic, and avoid aggressive acceleration.
- Remove aerodynamic drag-causing accessories when not needed (unnecessary roof racks, etc.).
Even with these measures, don’t expect dramatic mileage gains on an older truck, but every small improvement helps over time.
Conclusion
For a 2000 Ford Sport Trac with the 4.0L V6 and a 4-speed automatic, EPA-era estimates suggest roughly 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway for 2WD, or about 16 mpg city and 20 mpg highway for 4WD. Real-world mileage will vary, but understanding these baselines helps set expectations for ownership and budgeting. Overall, this model sits in the lower to mid-20s range on highway-only trips and slips into the teens when heavily loaded or driven in demanding conditions.
Summary
The 2000 Ford Sport Trac delivers fuel economy in the high-teens to low-twenties, with 2WD models generally outperforming 4WD versions. Official EPA numbers from that year show about 17/22 mpg (2WD) and 16/20 mpg (4WD). Real-world results depend on payload, maintenance, and driving style, but understanding these baselines helps buyers and owners gauge operating costs for this classic pickup-SUV blend.
How many miles per gallon does a 2000 Ford Explorer Sport get?
16 MPG overall
The 2000 Explorer Sport gets 16 MPG overall, with 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway.
How many miles per gallon does a 4.6 Sport Trac get?
Four-wheel drive and a 4.6-liter V8 are optional. The V8 makes 292 horsepower. Some reviewers are disappointed with the Explorer Sport Trac's fuel economy. The EPA estimates fuel economy for the base V6 engine at 15/21 mpg city/highway.
Is the Explorer Sport Trac a reliable truck?
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.
What year Explorer to stay away from?
You should stay away from the 2002–2006 Ford Explorer models due to frequent and expensive transmission problems, engine issues, and suspension wear. Other years to avoid include the 2016 and 2020 models, which have reported issues with electrical systems, faulty parts, and transmission problems.
Model years to avoid
- 2002–2006: The third generation is widely considered the least reliable due to significant transmission failures, engine problems (like timing chain issues), and premature suspension wear. The 2002 model year has the highest number of overall complaints, primarily for its transmission.
- 2016: This model year has been criticized for issues like faulty fuel tanks and suspension components, as well as poor rearward visibility and lack of interior storage.
- 2020: As the first year of the current design, the 2020 model is noted for a high number of recalls, particularly involving transmission problems that can cause stalling and power loss.
Other years with potential issues
- 2011–2019: This generation has drawn complaints about electrical system problems.
- Early 2021 models: Some 2021 models built in late 2020 and early 2021 had issues, though later models made in late 2021 are generally considered more reliable.
