Vehicle Description
2008 Ford Explorer Sport Trac Adrenalin
With the SVT Lightning's run ending in 2004, there was a void left
for a high performance truck at Ford. It didn't take long for the
folks at SVT to pick a target and create a prototype in 2005 from
the Sport Trac model line which originated in 2001 and was headed
into a second generation. The Adrenalin prototype had a
supercharged 4.6 liter V8 with 390 horsepower and was cosmetically
enhanced for an aggressive look. Well, long story short, the SVT
project was cancelled but the nameplate and cosmetic treatment
stuck, and nearly 6,000 Adrenalins were built between 2008 and
2010.
For consignment, a shining example of a 2008 Ford Sport Trac
Adrenalin with a title verified 69,292 actual miles. While most
Adrenalins had a V6, this is one with the naturally aspirated V8.
The layout of the Sport Trac provides a usable short bed along with
four doors and seating for five. The Adrenalin adds an upgraded
sound system, special gauges, and of course, enhanced exterior
cosmetic features.
Exterior
This truck has been well taken care of because the Colorado Red
paint is in fantastic condition. The color extends onto the front
fascia which is augmented by a black grille with a bold black cross
piece over a gaping air intake. The headlights are also backed in
black and our example has a bug deflector on the hood. An extended
fascia with headlights is part of the Adrenalin package and adds to
the aggressive presentation of this sport truck. From the side, the
proportions are unique and was developed essentially as an Explorer
pickup truck, only this version has attractive side vents, a color
keyed running board, and 20-inch chrome wheels specific to the
Adrenalin. The rear hits design marks too with a lower rear valance
from which twin exhaust tips protrude, a hard tonneau cover, and
the Adrenalin moniker spelled out in a unique font. The bed is
clean and features a bedliner that was standard on this model. A
couple of rock chips on the front fascia and minor blemishes on the
wheel clear coat are the only demerits on this clean truck.
Interior
Molded plastic door panels have an adventurous feel with varying
shapes and textures, reminding us stylistically of a Jeep. Black
leather bucket seats are up front, and the condition belies the
mileage on the truck but supports our "pampered" conclusion. The
rear seats, also in black leather, seat three across and the
outside passengers have headrests. The monochromatic black
continues with the basic steering wheel with thumb controls for
cruise control and the radio. Two white faced gauges are in the
driver's sightline and relay RPMs and speed while a center digital
screen shows additional information. The clean center stack
supports a 6-CD changer and AM/FM radio with SYNC and Bluetooth,
Adrenalin add ons. In the center console, a shifter with a
straight, vertical handle sits next to a pair of cupholders and in
front of the armrest/storage bin. Black vinyl floor cover takes its
place in lieu of carpet and Sport Trac rubber mats are on top. The
gray headliner, overhead console, and power sunroof, all look
great.
Drivetrain
A 4.6 liter 3-valve V8 is under the red hood and is rated at 292
horsepower. It's fuel injected and tied to a 5R55E 5-speed
automatic transmission which sends power to the transfer case which
in hand sends shafts to meet 3.73 gears in the front and the back.
Power assisted disc brakes are at all four corners with the rears
being new. The engine bay has been detailed and is clean.
Undercarriage
Generally clean and driver quality underneath with the usual amount
of surface rust. Everything looks dry as well and the single
exhaust flows into the original muffler and then splits at the
tailpipe and sends out two tips. Independent suspension is at both
ends with MacPherson struts in front and coil springs in the back.
We also note a trailer hitch and spare tire underneath.
Drive-Ability
The concept of the Sport Trac is appealing. Four doors and a bed in
a truck that's not overly wrought and AWD to boot? This truck
started right up and hit our test loop with eagerness and decent
acceleration. The big 20-inch wheels have us up high with good
visibility and since we're not towing anything, good
maneuverability. The sound system, the A/C, the lights, and
everything else passes our test with flying colors, or at least
bright red!
As a Lightning fan, I remember when the prototype was shown, (it
was featured in Car and Driver), and was excited for the new
design. Ford was calling it an "SUT" for Sport Utility Truck and
we're glad that monogram was dropped. Despite not getting the SVT
treatment, the Adrenalin is still a great looking truck and fairly
rare to see on the street. This is a great example that could
easily be used for shows and just as readily used for daily
duty.
1FMEU23848UA99090
1-USA
F-Ford Motor Company
M-MPV
E-3001 Thru 4000lb GVWR
U23-Explorer Sport Trac
8-4.6 Liter SOHC 3V V8 292hp
4-Check Digit
8-2008
U-Louisville, KY Assy Plant
A99090-Sequential Unit Number
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