The 2021 Ford Explorer's #16 ranking is based on its score within the Midsize SUVs category. Currently the Ford Explorer has a score of 7.6 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 28 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Good cargo capacity Powerful engines Plenty of features Composed ride and handling
Cons Low-rent interior Second- and third-row seats less comfortable than in rivals Upgraded infotainment system not much of an upgrade
For 2021 New Sport Appearance package available on XLT trim.More affordable version of the Explorer ST debuts..Platinum trim is now available for the Hybrid model.New off-road-themed Timberline debuts midway through the model year.
Pros Strong engines for quick acceleration Rear-wheel-drive platform improves handling and towing Roomy cargo area
Cons Too much wind noise at highway speeds The price can get frighteningly expensive in a hurry Lackluster interior material quality
Ford has made a few tweaks to its mid-size crossover for 2021, such as making heated seats standard on the XLT, offering a heated steering wheel as an optional feature on that model, and including an eight-way power-adjustable front passenger's seat on the Limited, ST, and Platinum models. A Sport Appearance package is now available on the XLT trim, and it includes 20-inch aluminum wheels that are coated in Carbonized Gray paint.A high-end King Ranch trim joins the lineup and features unique mahogany-colored leather upholstery.
Pros Smooth and controlled ride, cargo friendly interior design, comfortable front seats.
Cons Third row space is tight, plasticky interior bits, most desirable models are pricey.
All-new, but it's really an updated Lincoln MKX.Revised styling compared to MKX.Base engine is now a turbocharged four-cylinder.The 2019 Lincoln Nautilus is a five-passenger midsize luxury crossover that takes over for the MKX with a fresh exterior style.
Pros Quiet interior with spacious rear seating Comfortable ride Strong acceleration from optional turbocharged V6
Cons Thick roof pillars and small rear window impair visibility
It's still a Lincoln MKX (so it's still a Ford Edge), but the 2019 Lincoln Nautilus manages to improve in the most important ways, with more style and technology.
Pros It has a real name Lots of active safety equipment Handsome updated exterior All turbocharged lineup
Cons Harsh plastic on center console It's still a Ford Edge underneath Lincoln brand cachet still not great Matthew McConaughey will probably love it
Pros Smooth ride, decent steering, quiet and responsive engines.
Cons More relaxed than engaging, unspectacular interior.
