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
The 2021 Porsche Macan is unranked in Luxury Compact SUVs due to missing safety data. Currently, the Porsche Macan's overall score is not available, though its Critics' Rating, Performance score, and Interior score are based on our evaluation of 42 pieces of research and data.
Pros Exceptional handling and ride Muscular engine lineup Quality cabin materials Intuitive touch screen
Cons High base price for the class Snug rear seats and undersized cargo area
For 2021, Wireless Apple CarPlay is now standard.
Pros Quick acceleration regardless of engine choice Most athletic and engaging SUV in the class Surprisingly comfortable and composed ride Easy to customize thanks to a long list of options
Cons Less rear legroom and cargo capacity than many competitors Options and packages boost the price quickly Four-cylinder engine is much thirstier than those in rivals
A natural athlete, the Porsche Macan is the standard-bearer for sporty small SUVs and it’s priced to match
Pros Great handling Fantastic ride Powerful V-6 engines Quality feel inside and out Tons of options
Cons Expensive with options Cramped rear quarters Button overload inside Base engine doesn’t match expectations Light on standard safety gear
