Ford Explorer 2004 SUV Information
The Explorer returned in 2004 as Ford's mid-size sport utility vehicle. There were seven available styles and the availability of rear-wheel, all-wheel and four-wheel drive models. Trims included the XLS, NBX, XLT, Eddie Bauer and Limited. The XLT and XLS trims were also available in a Sports version.
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Engines
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In the 2004 Ford Explorer, power was derived from either a V-6 or V-8 engine. The V-6 was a single overhead cam, commonly called an SOHC, 12-valve, 4.0-liter engine that produced 210 horsepower at 5,100 rpm and 254 ft. lbs. of torque at 3,700 rpm. The V-8 was a SOHC, 16-valve, 4.6-liter engine that produced 239 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and 282 ft. lbs. of torque at 4,000 rpm.
Fuel Economy
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V-6 models with rear-wheel drive received an EPA estimated 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway rating. Four-wheel drive models were rated at 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. All-wheel drive versions came in at 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway.
V-8 models with rear-wheel drive received an EPA estimated 15 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. Four-wheel drive models were rated at 15 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. All-wheel drive versions came in at 14 mpg city and 19 mpg highway.
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Towing
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The standard towing capacity for any 2004 Ford Explorer was 3,500 lbs. When properly equipped, V-6 models could tow between 5,380 and 5,780 lbs. V-8 models had a maximum towing capacity between 7,000 and 7,140 lbs.
Exterior
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The 2004 Ford Explorer rode on a 113.8-inch wheel base and measured 189.5 inches long, 72.1 inches wide and 71.4 inches heigh. Ground clearance was 8.5 inches on all models. Between the wheels, there was 60.9 inches of front track and 61.2 inches of rear track. Standard wheel sizes included a 16-and 17-inch diameter.
Interior
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Seating for up to five passengers was standard. An optional third row for seven-passenger seating was available on all models, excluding the XLS. Front passengers had 39.9 inches of head room, 42.4 inches of leg room, 59.1 inches of shoulder room and 55 inches of hip room. Second-row passengers had 38.9 inches of head room, 35.9 inches of leg room, 58.9 inches of shoulder room and 54.2 inches of hip room.
History
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The Ford Explorer was introduced in 1991, seven years after its nearest competitors the Jeep Cherokee and Isuzu Trooper. Although Ford was not the first to the market with its compact four-door SUV, it did become one of the most popular in its class. Originally available in a two-door body style, the Explorer was noteworthy because it used a longer wheelbase for its four-door model.
Following Years
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The 2004 Ford Explorer SUV drove into the 2005 model year with minor updates. The 2006 model year marked the mid-cycle refresh for the Explorer. Adjustments included new taillights, tailgate, grille, additional sound insulation, stiffened frame and new shocks. From 2007 to 2009, Ford continued to refine the Explorer adding options like "Sync," Sirius and 20-inch wheels.
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