Mountaineer vs. Exploder

I believe MTR has the 3rd seats standard. So you probably want the Exploder.

So you probably want a 'Scape/Mariner!

Nope. I occasionally carry 4X8 plywood and wallboard, and want them flat inside my truck, not angled up on the side. They are longer than the truck but tiedowns keep the door from flapping in the wind. The Scapegoat /Mariner is too narrow. I wish there was a hybrid Exploder/MTR. Sorry for the reverse order in this reply.

Oh, yeah, the Exploder has a "delete rear seat" option... I do not know about the MTR.

Just for grins take a look at the 2007 sport trac - seats 4, no third row seat, v8, hauls plywood, hunting dogs and dirt, not sure if they will be awd, probably a full time like control trac.

I also test drove an Avalanche and was suitably impressed - haven't researched the truck. But its similar in concept.

Exactly!

I like them but they are impractical for me... I always have crap/tools/whoopee cushions/whatever in my storage area... I need it enclosed and roomy.

Does anyone have any other ideas to help me choose Limited vs. Premier? Thanks, again.

Before I purchased my 2000 Limited, I wanted an Expedition for the extra room. But everything I liked (in Expeditions) had a third row seat. Of course, I could have removed it and stored it, but then I would have had to have a storage place, etc. Anyway, that turned me off on Expeditions.

I believe the '06 Exploder/Mteer has the third row "fold flat". That being said, you probably will need to use the "delete" option and order it if you still want it without the 3rd row. We are the opposite, by the way. We use our 3rd row frequently with kids and their friends.