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.
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.
The 2021 Ford Explorer is recognizable, but new. It should be on every family SUV shopper’s list.
Pros Wide range of powertrains Good looks Great active safety tech Available hybrid Quiet interio
Cons Hybrid isn’t refined Not a great value Cramped third row Clunky second row
New Sport Appearance package available on XLT trim.Minor changes to standard and optional feature availability.
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
The Bronco Sport is an all-new model that's intended to serve as a smaller alternative to the larger Bronco. Although neither Ford has been officially revealed, we've heard lots of rumors and seen a lot of spy photos. The most recent images appear to show a production-ready Bronco Sport before its official debut in April, which is expected to follow the big Bronco's reveal date.
A new off-road capable SUV based on the Ford Escape.
Pros More all-terrain capabilities than your typical SUV Smart features for both adventures and everyday use Lots of customization options
Cons Rugged styling Three-cylinder base engine is likely pretty weak Last-generation infotainment system
The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport carves out a new all-terrain niche for one of the most beloved off-road names in auto history.
Pros Smart echoes of the past Strong turbo-4 power Off-road potential Hybrid to come Good-looking—and a good value
Cons Light on towing capacity More Bronco II than Sport?
