2004 Ford Explorer Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　Ford's AdvanceTrac electronic stability control that was previously available on V8 models only is now available on all models, except the XLS and XLS Sport and all AWD models. The NBX version now comes standard with the off-road package and "NBX" tailgate badging, and can be ordered with a moonroof. Limited and Eddie Bauer models get a quad bucket seating option when equipped with the third-row bench, which adds second-row buckets and a floor console. Family buyers of the 2004 Ford Explorer should note that the optional rear air conditioner no longer requires the purchase of the third-row seat. Finally, a tire-pressure monitoring system is now standard on XLS Sport and higher trim levels, and a rear cargo shade is optional on XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited models.

　　

zzdcar says

　　A functional interior, ample passenger space, strong powertrain and a well-controlled ride all contribute to the 2004 Ford Explorer's well-deserved reputation as a practical midsize SUV with few faults.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2004 Ford Explorer XLS Rwd 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$228/mo  for Explorer XLS

　　Explorer XLS

　　XLS Rwd 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $26,600 MSRPXLS 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) (Most Popular) - $29,065 MSRPXLS AWD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $29,065 MSRPXLS Sport Rwd 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $28,015 MSRPXLS Sport 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $30,240 MSRPXLS Sport AWD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $30,240 MSRPXLT Rwd 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $29,580 MSRPXLT Rwd 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) - $30,380 MSRPXLT 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $31,805 MSRPXLT AWD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $31,805 MSRPXLT 4WD 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) - $32,605 MSRPXLT AWD 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) - $32,605 MSRPXLT Sport Rwd 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $30,755 MSRPXLT Sport Rwd 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) - $31,555 MSRPXLT Sport 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $32,980 MSRPXLT Sport AWD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $32,980 MSRPXLT Sport 4WD 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) - $33,780 MSRPXLT Sport AWD 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) - $33,780 MSRPNBX 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $32,980 MSRPNBX 4WD 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) - $33,780 MSRPEddie Bauer Rwd 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $33,655 MSRPEddie Bauer Rwd 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) - $34,455 MSRPEddie Bauer 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $35,880 MSRPEddie Bauer AWD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $35,880 MSRPEddie Bauer AWD 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) - $36,680 MSRPEddie Bauer 4WD 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) - $36,680 MSRPLimited Rwd 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $34,530 MSRPLimited Rwd 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) - $35,330 MSRPLimited 4WD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $36,755 MSRPLimited AWD 4dr SUV (4.0L 6cyl 5A) - $36,755 MSRPLimited 4WD 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) - $37,555 MSRPLimited AWD 4dr SUV (4.6L 8cyl 5A) - $37,555 MSRP

　　vs

　　$183/mo

　　Avg. Midsize SUV

　　

2004 Explorer Highlights

Trim: XLSXLS SportXLTXLT SportNBXEddie BauerLimitedXLS

　　

Base MSRP	$26,600
Engine Type	Flex-fuel (ffv)
Combined MPG	16 MPG
Cost to Drive	$228/month
Seating	5 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	44.5 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles