For 2021 Blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert is now standard.A wireless charging pad is now available.
Pros Impeccably crafted, attractively designed cabin Generous passenger room Supremely quiet interior Smooth power delivery
Cons Below-average cargo capacity Relatively slow acceleration Touchpad controller is distracting to use Subpar real-world fuel economy
The 2021 Lexus RX Hybrid's #6 ranking is based on its score within the Luxury Hybrid and Electric SUVs category. Currently the Lexus RX Hybrid has a score of 7.8 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 29 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Silky ride Lengthy features list Opulent cabin
Cons Less nimble than rivals Limited cargo space Finicky Remote Touch infotainment interface Miniscule third row
Lexus introduced the Black Line Special Edition package for the F Sport models. It comes with black exterior accents, black 20-inch wheels, blue stitching for the leather interior, and either an Ultra White or Grecian Water (medium blue) paint job. More notably, ordering the Black Line Special Edition package also adds a two-piece set of Zero Halliburton luggage. Elsewhere, the RX receives a new interior color—Glazed Caramel—which replaces Noble Brown. Blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and power-folding exterior mirrors are all now standard. A wireless smartphone charging pad is now optional and the Performance package has been rechristened as the Handling package.
Pros Fuel-efficient powertrains, standard driver-assistance features, silky-smooth ride quality.
Cons Lazy driving demeanor, relaxed acceleration, fussy infotainment touchpad.
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, Off-road enthusiasts may find the new Timberline trim interesting; it features a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, and more rugged exterior styling cues.
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'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
