Great thread!
A couple of thoughts/observations:
1) New BMW X5 due soon - this Fall? X7 Rumored to be coming too. I know that doesn't help for 2017 depreciation.
2) The tow vehicle weight argument may be old school thinking at this point. Or not. All I know is my X5 was a fantastic tow vehicle. I'm guessing the engineers really put work into using the torque vectoring, etc. to compensate for any bad behavior by the trailer. Maybe not, but it was SO much better than my new Explorer. I never had to deal with 30mph crosswinds though.
3) The LX/ Cruiser is very uncomfortable for me after an hour or so. The LX seats are uncomfortable, rear seats are low, ride is harsh, etc. Fit and finish is nice if you like the style.
4) Ford.... I know their trucks are #1, but "never" again will I own a Ford. The entire experience has me wishing for Tesla to rule them all, especially the ____ dealership owners/managers. The "screw 'em every chance you get" business model doesn't sit well with me. Yes, that is a rant and your experience will likely not match my own.
To anyone at JLR- Please bring back the LR4 in a couple of years, new info/electronics and chassis upgrade to get rid of the mandatory runningboards. We'd love you for it. And you could drop the RR Velar from the line, if you need the production capacity. ;-)