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
For 2021, Jaguar gives the I-Pace a handful of improvements. The SUV now offers a complimentary 4G data plan, a 360-degree camera system, and wireless charging. The optional Bright package adds chrome exterior trim, Atlas Grey accents, and other minor styling changes. Inside, there's a new infotainment system that's said to be easier to operate than the one it replaces. Plus, it gains a feature that tells you where the nearest charging stations are and how long it should take to restore the battery.
PROS Quick and serene operation, graceful and engaging driving manners, branding and styling make a statement.
CONS Brake pedal has uneven feedback, underachieving range in the real world, sluggish 240-volt charging time.
The I-Pace won’t be for everyone, but hats off to Jaguar for making a car that steps boldly into the unknown, and shows those pesky Germans the way.
PROS Acceleration, interior space, big boot, brave exterior design
CONS Not cheap, better infotainment systems out there, claimed range is ambitious
PROS Genuinely innovative design Brings mainstream credibility to luxury EV market Responsive, accessible, seamless performance
CONS Lacklustre infotainment system Lack of 100kW charging infrastructure Intrusive stability control
