Ford unveiled its latest concept vehicle, the 4-Trac, at the Thailand International Motor Expo in Bangkok; aimed at the motorist that desires versatility, functionality and style to suit the active lifestyle; a vehicle that is at ease lugging timber in the construction yard as it is carrying the snowboards up to the slopes. Apparently.

Ford aims to build on its current theme of concept cars for the outdoor active generation most notably seen with the recent Ford SAV, a stylish five-seat multi-purpose vehicle that offers modern styling with practicality. However, there are few unique bits to the 4-Trac. The exterior features a large Ford blue oval, the signature 3-bar grill and 17-inch six-spoke turbine alloys. The angle of the A-pillars point to more conventional car styling as opposed to a more commercially styled pick up, such as the Nissan Navara.

It seems Ford has followed a rescue theme with the 4-Trac, with its lustrous red paint and heavy duty winches front and rear with integrated rope hooks. It can carry five rescue workers and an abundance of equipment in the rear. The rear cargo area also has a rear access hatch that enables access from the cargo directly in to the cabin.

If you're an adrenalin junkie with a working week that requires a four-door crew cab pick-up and your weekends are packed with mountain biking and surfing, then this could be an alternative to the Mitsubishi L200 Warrior, though it is unlikely to come to the UK. We think that the 4-Trac previews a new car to debut at next month's Detroit Motor Show.

Paul Wilkinson - 19 Dec 2005