[igor]

There are some rumblings about Explorer vs Edge vs Expedition and RWD vs FWD and BOF vs Unitbody in that space. I have not paid close enough attention to really understand what the hints are getting at, but I do believe the idea of Explorer (or another car) taking on the Grand Cherokee more directly was mentioned (i.e. RWD unitbody/hybrid design).

Of course the next Navigator will be a Land Rover beater with unitbody aluminum chassis, so Ford is obviously working to try new things in the chassis department.

Igor

 

[igor]

I have a Grand Cherokee now and I would never consider any current Ford products. I'm not biased and I drove both the edge and explorer when I was shopping; however, they didn't hold a candle to my car. If they brought over the Everest it would be the only Ford product I would consider.

That is the point I am making. The Edge and Explorer play it well against the like of Highlander and Pilot, but the Grand Cherokee has upped the game, in looks, ride, and refinement. There were rumblings that Ford is paying attention and planning to address that situation in a future release, but as I said, I have not been listening intently enough to know details.

 

[igor]

This was debated in detail at FIN. The problem with the like of Trailblazer, and Everest is that they are built to much lower standard. The upgrades necessary to make them ready for mature markets like US and EU are substantial -- and even then would likely not be as refined as the GC.