The 2020 Land Rover Defender is a return to the U.S. for the boxy off-roader that helped start it all. This time with far more creature comforts.
Pros Back in the USA Boxy profile Upgraded interior Legendary capability Two body styles
Cons Turbo-4 for the big Defender 110? Pricey off-roader Odd looks at the rear Interior comfort is a question Pricey off-roader Odd looks at the rear Interior comfort is a question
Fully redesigned after many decades.Much more comfort and refinement.Lots of customization options.Part of the second Defender generation introduced for 2020.
Pros Strong off-road capabilities Numerous customization options High-tech safety and off-road features
Cons Not as tough-looking as the original
Land Rover reopens the book on one of its most iconic nameplates with the all-new 2020 Defender. Its boxy shape and retro details combine with design language found on modern Land Rovers to create an appearance that's both sophisticated and nostalgic. While the 2020 Defender looks like an ordinary crossover, it has serious off-road capabilities and rugged equipment that help it live up to its go-anywhere heritage.
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
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, 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.A high-end King Ranch trim joins the lineup and features unique mahogany-colored leather upholstery.
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.
