Hello!

I do not know if you ever did purchase the said Explorer. However, my boss owns one for his business. He knows I will never admit it but the latest ones pretty nice when it comes to the 4 wheeling needs. He said he has never got stuck once in any condition he has driven through. (Snow, Mix precip, Sand, mud, etc.) He has owned the ride since Feb 2012.

We also tow on a regular basis. We have a small 6 by 12 enclosed trailer for moving equipment around. I believe it is rated for around 3000 pounds but our loads are never that high. Last month he purchased an ultra light weight travel trailer. Dry it is 3500 pounds. Wet it is 4400. Him and his fiance have taken it out a few places so far and he said it tows well. I was personally skeptical until he allowed me to drive it around the office complex and local area. It did better than what I was expecting. I felt it towed fairly well as a matter of fact. I just don't won't admit it since it is a matter of male pride. (A running joke around the shop.)

I am not a fan of the newer look. Call me a traditionalist. I like the look the older ones. I did own a 99 Sport. (probably would have still had the ride if I had not been involved an accident with a drunk driver) I currently own a 05 Explorer 4 door. My daughter loves the rear entertainment set up However, the new ones seem to be a pretty stout ride. The ecoboosted models should be coming out as well. That may give more towing capacity when the time comes.

Good luck with purchasing or a purchased ride.