2004 Lincoln Aviator: Road Test
Archived Review
2004 Lincoln Aviator ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $40,290 -$45,705
- Invoice: $37,006 -$41,879
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to Lincoln Aviator
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2004 Lincoln Aviator includes a full evaluation of the 2004 Lincoln Aviator from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2004 Lincoln Aviator, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2004 Lincoln Aviator help you decide if a 2004 Lincoln Aviator is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| Ultimate AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.8 |
Only AWD models made available for test so far. Test Luxury version did 8.3 sec 0-60 mph, just 0.1 sec quicker than V8 Explorer; blame Aviator's greater weight for sapping its extra power. Midrange and passing response is decent, though transmission a bit slow to downshift. Towing capacity is 7100 lb with AWD.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Ultimate AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 2 | 3.3 |
Test AWD models averaged 13.8-14.6 mpg in city/highway mix. Lincoln recommends premium fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| Ultimate AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.9 |
A more trucky feel than car-type luxury competition, such as Lexus RX 330, but reasonably compliant, laudably devoid of sloppy steering and body motions. Pleasant absence of side-to-side rocking over uneven surfaces, too.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Ultimate AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.2 |
Lincoln-specific steering and suspension tuning, in combination with 17-inch tires, helps Aviator feel more precise and nimble than Ford/Mercury cousins. Relatively little body lean in tight turns for an SUV. Sure-footed grip on twisty roads. Progressive brake-pedal action.
QUIETNESS
| Ultimate AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6 |
Wind, road noise unobjectionable, and low for an SUV. Smooth V8 quiet at idle and cruise, somewhat noisy under full throttle.
CONTROLS
| Ultimate AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6 |
Gauge markings indistinct in sunlight. Controls clearly identified, and most are illuminated and within easy reach, though center-console-mounted power-window switches hard to operate without a glance down. Lots of silver-finish plastic instrument surrounds. Materials and finish a step above Explorer/Mountaineer, but still below luxury-SUV standard set by similarly priced Lexus, BMW, Mercedes-Benz models.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Ultimate AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.4 |
Front seatbacks lack power-recline feature, but standard tilt steering wheel, memory seat, adjustable pedals help custom-tailor driving position. Some testers say leg room for large adults is only adequate. Visibility good. Rear-obstacle detection adds confidence when backing up. Standard running boards ease high step-in.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Ultimate AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 6.2 |
Second-row buckets accommodate two adults in reasonable comfort. Three can squeeze in with available bench seat. Either way, there's generous head room, better knee and foot clearance than in most midsize SUVs. Third-row cushion low to floor, pancake-flat, but head room, leg space surprisingly good. Second-row seats tip forward in single, easy motion, but access to 3rd row is for the young and limber.
CARGO ROOM
| Ultimate AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 7.4 |
Large hatch glass opens separately, dips low into tailgate to aid loading. But tailgate weighty to open or close. Cargo room tight behind 3rd-row seat. Third row does not fold flat, position of seatback release makes process awkward, and presence of 2nd-row buckets leaves open gaps that could swallow small items. Lots of interior storage bins, cubbies.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Ultimate AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 5.6 |
Aviator is certainly competent on the road, has V8 muscle, and offers an array of luxury and safety features at a relatively reasonable price--a price that should benefit from steep discounts. Still, Acura and Lexus rivals top it for quality of interior materials and overall refinement.
Total Score
| Ultimate AWD | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 57 | 57.8 |
Total Score: 57
Scores for all Premium Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
