Built on the same platform and with the same 189 inches of length as the Safari Passenger Van, the Cargo Van makes better functional use of the space by eliminating the second and third row of seats, opening up 170 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Seating two, the 2004 Safari Cargo receives no changes this year. It is available in both rear-wheel and automatic all-wheel drive. Under the hood is a 4.3-liter V6 that produces 190-hp and 250 lb-ft of torque together with a 4-speed automatic. The transmission features a tow-haul mode, and the cargo van can tow up to 5400 pounds.

With an emphasis on commercial use, the 2004 Safari Cargo is sparsely equipped. Seating two in bucket seats, the van offers power locks, air conditioning, automatic headlights, daytime running lights, and intermittent wipers, and not much else. ABS brakes and dual front airbags are standard, but traction control is not available. There is a long list of convenience options, such as power features, cruise control, a CD player, and remote entry, that boost passenger comfort. A manual sliding passenger door provides side access, and there are dual rear doors. A roof rack is optional

Though it only gets 15/20 mpg, and handles more like a truck than a van (it is one of two domestic vans still based on a truck platform), the 2004 Safari Cargo gets high marks for its handling, but mostly for its interior space and functionality. The AWD also performs well.