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
Wi-Fi hotspot now standard,no other significant changes for 2021.
Pros Tremendously powerful six-cylinder engine Grip and handling are excellent Sleeker styling than the related X3 M
Cons Excessively stiff ride Rear headroom is a bit tight Sloping roofline compromises cargo space and visibility
Like several other BMWs, the X4 M gains Android Auto and SiriusXM satellite radio as standard features for the 2021 model year. Otherwise, the flashy fastback SUV remains unchanged.
Pros Abundance of horsepower, impressively quick acceleration, deft handling.
Cons Stiff suspension can be harsh over bumps, not as practical as X3 M, polarizing rear styling.
Pros Balanced power delivery Impressive grip and balance Fun on tap in 4WD Sport setting Transmission refinement
Cons Punishing ride Only subtly different next to regular X4 Not as pointed as a full-fledged M4
