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 Strong off-road capabilities Wealth of customization options High-tech safety and off-road features Smooth ride for an off-road-oriented SUV
Cons Options can get pricey Cargo door is heavy and opens toward the curb
Pros Modern design looks cool Awesome off-road capabilities Lots of personalisation options
Cons A Discovery is better at seating seven Top models are Range Rover money Land Rover's poor reliability record
Land Rover is introducing a V-8 engine into the Defender lineup for 2022: the 518-hp Supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 that's found in the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models. The V-8 will be available on both the two-door 90 and four-door 110 models; a high-end Carpathian Edition model will also sport the V-8 engine.
Pros Ultra-capable off-road, surprisingly refined on-road, well-equipped interior.
Cons Disappointing fuel economy, desirable features carry high price tags, six-cylinder isn't as quick as we'd hoped.
