I think that with the real estate downturn, big trucks and SUVs are definitely out. There’s no “status” in looking like a contractor anymore. My friend has a trailer to pull. He good a killer deal on a used Ford Excursion from a seller who couldn’t afford his payments anymore.
Fords (American cars in general) are crappy cars. Put one next to a Toyota and look at the gaps in between the body panels. If you compare fit and finish, it’s like Walmart leather goods vs. Coach leather, but at the same price.
The Mustang, arguably the only truly inspiring Ford, was designed by an immigrant engineer who understands American car culture better than the good ol’ boys of Dearborn. Renault might end-up buying Ford and Carlos Ghosn will be running the show.