2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer
and NBX
Hot on the heels of last year's major redesign, the Ford
Expedition confidently strolls into 2004 with an expanded
lineup and more offerings than ever. It is still as rugged,
roomy and respectable as last year, but with more goods.
For starters, the XLT NBX model replaces the old FX4 as
the vehicle to get if you're looking to head off the beaten
path on a few occasions. It features a specially designed
performance package that has one thing one its mind, and
that is to conquer rough terrain.
However, the new NBX trim doesn't have to be just for off-road
enthusiasts. Moms using the Expedition to drive will find
particular comfort in its safe, road-gripping ability.
Available Models
The lineup of Ford Expeditions grows a little in 2004, with
a total of five offered: XLS, XLT, XLT Sport, NBX and Eddie
Bauer. XLS, XLT and XLT Sport models are covered in another
review.
Interior Features
Inside, there's room for nine people, if you don't mind
a front bench seat. For versatile cargo management, there's
a fold-flat-into-the-floor third row 60/40 seat, a 40/20/40
second row seat with manual CenterSlide section and best-in-class
cargo volume.
No Expedition comes close to topping the Eddie Bauer in
terms of luxury. It has such standard items as automatic
climate controls, leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped
steering wheel with radio controls and an Audiophile AM/FM
radio with in-dash 6-disc CD changer and rear radio controls.
A DVD system is optional, among other things.
Exterior Features
The 2004 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer model has a two-tone
beige exterior with running boards. The XLT NBX is ready
to move with tubular step bars, Durachrome steel wheels
and skid plates.
Performance
The NBX trim, designed with rugged applications in mind,
only comes in a four-wheel drive configuration. It also
uses premium Sachs shocks to handle big, bad bumps.
The NBX has a 5.4-liter V8. It cranks out 260 horsepower
at 4500 rpm and 350 lb-ft of torque at 2500 rpm, and features
a cast iron engine block that has been computer-designed
to reduce vibration for quieter operation.
Two-wheel drive Eddie Bauer models can also be had with
a 4.6-liter V8. It offers 232 horsepower at 4750 rpm and
291 lb-ft of torque at 3450 rpm.
Safety and Security
Dual front airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes with brake
assist, fog lights and a tire-pressure monitor are standard.
The Eddie Bauer has a rear-obstacle detection system as
well.
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