Took a 4cyl SE for a test ride yesterday and was pleasantly surprised. The power on the highway between 60 and 80 mph was fine. The only time I notice that it was a 4 cyl was once in town when accelerating in the 20mph range, a bit of a lag.
Does the acceleration fall off much with 2 or 3 passengers ?

What can I expect if I tow a 1500 lb boat, (flat terrain except for the boat ramp.)
1. How would it be when accelerating from a stop.
2. Will the rear drop down much if using the recommended tongue wgt ?
3. Flat terrain, how is the braking without trailer brakes.
(never tow over 45mph)

 

I can only answer a couple of your questions
I tow a 3100lb (1400kg) caravan without any problems at legal posted speeds here in Australia up to 110 kph (68 mph) with electric brakes. It has very good acceleration and stopping. Feul consumption goes up by a bit (just under double) Ball weight is 140kg (308 lbs) and it only drops about 1 inch and level riders lift it back up. With that weight boat you wont have a problem. You will hardly notice a full load of passengers.
My Outlander is an 09 SE 2.4lt CVT. Just had it put on LPG today and it goes even better. Hope this helps.

 

When I tow it is usually by myself or one pax. 110 lb tounge wgt, will it lower it much or will I need to add something for more lift ?

 

Apparently air springs are the go. I intend to get some soon.