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
Elevation Edition debuts with black wheels and exterior trim.Wireless functionality for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.Minor changes to trim option packages.
Pros Refined ride quality Quick acceleration from optional V6 engine Simple, easy-to-use cabin layout Modern onboard technology keeps you connected
Cons Cabin isn't particularly luxurious, even in the priciest trim level Some rival SUVs offer more cargo and third-row space Lackluster base engine
GMC has made a few packaging changes to the Acadia for 2021. The Pro Safety Plus package, which includes several driver-assistance features, is now standard on SLT, AT4, and Denali. An Elevation Edition package is now available on the SLE and SLT and includes 20-inch wheels and black exterior accents. A heated steering wheel joins the Premium package for SLT and AT4 trims. .
Pros Square-jawed styling, intuitive infotainment interface, cargo-friendly interior.
Cons Costs more than interior materials suggest, tight third-row passenger space, mediocre fuel economy.
The 2020 GMC Acadia’s expanded lineup and new styling look worth the wait.
Pros Good looks Infotainment upgrades worthwhile Intriguing new turbo-4
Cons Active safety tech should be standard A little narrow inside Push-button shifters not our favorite
