So my family got 2 new cars which I got to sample when I went to visit recently.

My parents traded in their 2010 Fusion SE on an Escape XLT (FWD and 2.5 liter 4 banger.) They loved their fusion but my dad has MS and needs something that can transport a scooter. They got the escape on clearance for 19k (25k msrp.) Its a solid little truck and they got the 17 inch chrome wheels which really look good on it. No other options besides that. You can tell the platform's a little long in the tooth, it has a solid ride but at the occasional expense of ride quality. It won't win any drag races with the 4 cylinder but it's well geared and reasonably peppy.

My brother and his wife got the new explorer XLT. I was blown away by how much I liked it. It had 4wd, my Ford touch and optional 20 inch wheels. It rides like a luxury car absorbing bumps and potholes with ease. It was also remarkably quiet, vault like even. The seats were comfortable and the interior was we'll designed and attractive. Fit and finish was excellent. The 3.5 is well suited to the explorer. It's extremely smooth and provides a deceptive amount of power. I initially though it was going to be only adequate acceleration since its such a heavy CUV but I walked away impressed by the hustle the car could muster and also the seamless way it put the power to the road.

My brother is waiting to see what the next Mustang will look like before he decides if he wants to buy the current model or not. Also, after I get my year end bonus I'm going to get myself a slightly used Mustang GT. I can't live without a car anymore.

I have a buddy with an new Explorer. I do have to day it is very nice.

The only real issue is like most SUVs today once you start adding the options it gets way over priced fast. But It is still a better value than the Edge. The lower end Explorer can be well optioned for the price of a well optioned Edge. I find the Explorer the only choice between the two,