2004 Lincoln Aviator Trims and Specs

Introduced last year, the 2004 Lincoln Aviator STD gains a tire-pressure monitor this year. This rear-wheel-drive, midsize, high-end SUV also comes with 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, dual front-side and side curtain airbags for the first two rows, automatic headlights, foglights, rear parking sensors, 17-inch alloy wheels, and mirrors with turn signals. Already earning the highest marks from the Insurance Institute, the SUV can be equipped with new AdvanceTrac traction and stability control and xenon HID headlights. A truck-like platform combines with a car-like rear independent suspension to improve handling and maneuverability. The 2004 Aviator STD seats six in three rows, though seven can be accommodated if the second-row captain's chairs are replaced with a bench seat. Both rear rows fold nearly flat to expand the 12-cubic-foot cargo area to 77 cubic feet. A roof rack is included, along with cargo tie-downs and a trailer hitch. An optional towing package boosts towing capacity to 7,300 pounds. One complaint about the cargo area is that the floor slopes upward, making storage awkward.

A 4.6-liter, 302-hp DOHC V8 and 5-speed shiftable automatic power the 2004 Aviator STD and provide satisfying acceleration. The SUV also keeps riders happy with its long list of standard equipment. Along with full power features, it includes 6-way power front seats with memory, power tilt and telescopic steering, and power-adjustable pedals. Heated leather seats, dual-zone climate control with rear controls, wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, a CD player, intermittent front and rear wipers, heated mirrors, remote entry, a garage opener, and a security system are standard. Real wood and satin nickel finish add more class to the interior. Options include a touch-screen navigation system and 6-CD changer, both upgraded this year, and a DVD player, sunroof, and heated and cooled seats. Drivers like the safety features, powerful engine, and all the creature comforts, but the poor 13/19 mpg estimates and limited rear legroom are big disappointments.

Although it lacks low-range gearing for any real off-road capability, the 2004 Lincoln Aviator STD AWD does get the optional new AdvanceTrac stability and traction control with rollover protection. The full-time automatic all-wheel drive distributes torque 50/50 front and rear, and with AdvanceTrac it adds side-to-side distribution as well. Good in tricky weather conditions, the AWD comes with a limited-slip center differential and combines with 4-wheel disc and ABS brakes, 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, foglights, mirrors with turn signals, backup sensors, and dual front-side and side curtain airbags for the first two rows for top safety ratings. A new addition this year is a standard tire-pressure monitor. Xenon HID headlamps can also be added. Though the AWD adds weight, powered by the 302-hp, 4.6-liter DOHC V8 and 5-speed shiftable automatic, it can tow 7,100 pounds with the standard trailer hitch.

The Aviator midsize luxury SUV seats six or seven in three rows, both of which fold down for up to 77 cubic feet of cargo space. The cargo area features tie-downs and an optional net, and the liftgate opens separately from the rear window. This space is supplemented by a standard roof rack. The 2004 Aviator STD AWD provides plenty of power inside as well, with a full power setup, 6-way power front seats with driver's memory, power-adjustable pedals, and power tilt and telescopic steering. Also inclued is a CD player with wheel-mounted controls, cruise control, intermittent front and rear wipers, front and rear climate control, a trip computer, garage opener, heated mirrors, and remote entry. The first and second seating rows feature a center console with cupholders and trays, and there is also an overhead storage console. Leather, maple wood, and satin nickel trimmings adorn the interior. The Ultimate option package (last year called the Premium) adds an upgraded touchscreen navigation system, 6-CD changer, and a rear DVD player. Also available are chrome wheels, a sunroof, and heated and cooled seats.