I think the review is spot on. A fine automobile, but lacking any distinctive character other than the massive, gawkish front end
I preferred the beak.
I don't get how this thing is so much worse a performer than the Pilot, which manages a 6.0s 0-60 time and fantastic road hold from my experience behind the latter's wheel.
Your point is likely correct re base model over Elite, but at least the package is only $10k - hell, you can option a Ford Escape nearly $20,000 more expensive than its base