I've already spoken at length about the Explorer, the Grand Cherokee, and the upcoming Durango. The contrast between these vehicles is the watering down of the SUV concept: no one really goes off road, so why bother making these vehicles so capable? Ford's gone that route with the Explorer, while Chrysler continues to design overbuilt, serious SUVs that can go anywhere. The GC is indeed built on a unibody, but it retains a more traditional RWD setup. The disadvantage? More weight, and poorer fuel economy.
However, it seems that crossing over isn't the weight saving endeavour it once was. Estimates are floating around that a kitted out, AWD Explorer will be approaching 5,000 lbs. I previously lamented the new Grand Cherokee for weighing that much, but it seems that crossovers, stuffed with airbags, third row seats, and super-strong roof pillars are catching up fast.
Another interesting factoid is that the complicated, EcoBoost four-pot motor will be more expensive than the more powerful V-6. It's a definite departure from the norm, one that may be a tough sell, especially if the mileage improvement is only marginal. Time will tell.
I'll hold final judgement on the Explorer until I see performance figures, but the bottom line is that this new crossover will be a very competitive and competent addition to the marketplace. If only it had my beloved sliding second row (which it doesn't), it may be my faux-SUV of choice.
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