And there's the rub ! The wife is ready to get rid of hers !!!

She got one of the first 13's delivered in the area and now she's seeing too many Tuxedo black Explorer Sports running around and just like her Audi, time to get a unique car

just kidding - she loves the size, performance, looks, and NO issues save Sync....


And as regards to mpg...
there are SO many variables that even between drivers it changes... even the same driver "in a hurry" versus trying to conserve !
I mean consider that different:
climates, topography, fuel quality, wind direction, number of people carried, cargo, tires and tire pressure, alignment, fluids (engine oils, rear end), fuel quality, winter blends, station brand, filling up parked in different 'angles' each time, etc..., etc....
can all change mpg, so you have to consider eliminating as many variables as possible...

all I know is that when I get in the sport after the wife driving it back and forth to work for a while, it's usually sitting @ 20.1 or 20.2 - amazing how consistent she is...

I get in it and just my starting it up changes it to 19.1 and lower

 

So far we have test driven both the 4 Runner Limited and the Highlander.
1st- 4 Runner not as peppy as I ASSumed though it was ok. Nice appointments and can see making interstate trips easily. It was easy to drive and teh awd had just a tad extra clearance that made me feel like I was in a small truck for me that clicked!

2d- Highlander the torque steer brought memories of the Mazda 626. It performed with a tad better throttle response since it is a lighter vehicle but would not care it. Cannot put my finger on it other then well it just did not click like the 4 Runner. We are looking for a AWD/4wd for trips to the north and mid-west later nest year.

Last vehicle to test drive will the the 2013/14 Explorer next month......waaaay to many post retirement new house to set up stuff to do...whew need a job to get some rest you...some of you guys may relate? lol.....

Nice post with excellent details important on elevation and speed....thank you.....