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
Both the R1S and the Rivian brand itself are new entrants in the SUV marketplace. The R1S will be sold directly to consumers, although Rivian says that it also will set up a network of service centers and Tesla-like stores. The R1S will go on sale in early 2021.To take advantage of the R1S's longest available driving range, buyers will need to spring for the largest 180.0-kWh model. We think it's worth it given that the average driver will need to recharge the battery less frequently and the extended range will come in handy for road trips.
