[onewhippedpuppy]

Originally Posted by speeder

I rented a new Explorer a couple years ago when I was somewhere snowy and needed AWD, it was all they had to give me. Didn't like it, seemed large and stupid inside but then I frequently hate new cars and their touch screen BS, etc.

Disliked it so much that I was able to switch it for an Escape AWD w small ecoboost motor and liked that as much as anything I've ever rented. Just a brilliant little rig but enough room inside for me.

Large and stupid = good family car. The Explorer was really the only of the crossover SUVs with a usable 3rd row seat, and in Sport trim with the Ecoboost was pretty decent to drive. You probably had a rental spec model with the normal V6 and standard suspension which isn't nearly as good. Ultimately the Flex offered a little more room, a more carlike ride, the same power, and better seats. Plus you don't see them on every street corner like the Explorer.

You are 100% correct on the Ecoboost Escape though, they are really really good. My parents have had a string of brand new Honda CRVs bought new, I prefer the Escape in every way.