If the Ford Explorer were a high school kid in a class
full of midsize sport utility vehicles, there would be no
doubting who the king of the campus was. The most popular,
the most versatile and the most distinguished, it would
be easy pickings for the Explorer.
It's not high school, but the 2004 Ford Explorer is still
the most popular in the land. 2004 sees its appeal looking
to grow even more with new features and upgrades. Auxiliary
climate control is now offered in all rear seating positions,
and a tire-pressure monitor is now standard on all models
with aluminum wheels.
Available Models
In addition to the 2004 Ford Explorer NBX, Eddie Bauer and
Limited models, there are also XLS/XLS Sport and XLT/XLT
Sport models, which are covered separately.
Interior Features
For the 2004 Ford Explorer, all models are available with
a fold-flat third-row seat for comfortable seven-passenger
seating. At the top of the list in terms of price, the NBX,
Eddie Bauer and Limited models are three distinct trims,
each with their own personal touches.
The NBX is an off-roader, plain and simple. The Eddie Bauer
is unique, featuring design touches inspired by the company
from which it gets its name. Limited models share most of
the same equipment-that is, they are also loaded with standard
features.
Leather upholstery, heated front seats, steering wheel radio
and climate controls and an Audiophile AM/FM radio w/in-dash
six-disc CD changer are standard with Eddie Bauer and Limited
trims.
Exterior Features
Hammering home its boldness, the exterior of the NBX features
unique two-tone black front and rear bumpers that coordinate
with the black side moldings, wheel lips and step bars.
Performance
The NBX uses last year's off-road package as standard equipment.
That is, it is a full-time four-wheel drive model with special
tuned suspension. The base engine under its hood is a 4.0-liter
V6. It generates 210 horsepower and 254 lb-ft of torque.
Other models can be had in rear-wheel drive as well. In
addition, all three can be fitted with a 4.6-liter V8. It
offers 239 horsepower and 282 lb-ft of torque.
The standard receiver hitch offers Class II towing capability.
An available towing package provides Class III/IV towing
capability of up to 7,140 pounds when properly equipped.
Safety and Security
Dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes and fog
lights are standard. Curtain side airbags, an antiskid system
and a rear-obstacle detection system are optional.
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Car Reviews
2004
Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer and Limited Model
- Review
2004
Ford Explorer - Price Quote
XLS
replaces XLT as the value-conscious model.
