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
Pros Quick acceleration and impressively smooth power delivery Great-sounding Mark Levinson audio system Ultra Luxury trim brings first-class accommodations to rear passengers
Cons Big and top-heavy feel around turns Excessively floaty ride like a 1970s Cadillac Some driver aids can be overly intrusive Not as much cargo space as some rival SUVs
Pros Broad range of available trims, refined twin-turbo V-6 powertrain, more deluxe interior than outgoing model.
Cons Third row not standard equipment, F Sport model has a rough ride, not as rich looking as a Range Rover.
