Not that 90% of Explorer drivers would actually take them offroad anyway. This car based crossover version should be much more suited to most Explorer buyers' needs (i.e. driving to the grocery store) and will be more efficient as well.

As long as they keep the Expedition around that will be sufficient for people who actually use SUVs to their full potential. But I am not sure what Ford plans to do with that one... maybe you know. Seems like the market for tradtional full-size SUVs has all but dried up as of recently.

http://www.autoblog.com/2009/10/13/spy-shots-unibody-2011-ford-explorer-cometh/2#comments

New spy photos show it wearing its new body. Unfortunately it will likely lose the BorgWarner designed ControlTrac 4-wheel-drive system, since it will be a front-wheel-drive based unit.

Say bye, bye to off road abilities ...