2020 Ford Expedition vs 2021 GMC Yukon

CarGurus experts rate the 2020 Ford Expedition at 8 out of 10 and the 2021 GMC Yukon at 9 out of 10 for look and feel. The Ford Expedition, last redesigned for the 2018 model year, sports a clean, albeit somewhat understated design that may not turn heads but is likely to age well. The King Ranch edition, in particular, offers a distinctive look with its 22-inch aluminum wheels, mesh grille insert, and exclusive exterior trim. The interior features special Del Rio leather and King Ranch branding, although the presence of hard plastics, especially in lower trims, is a notable drawback. The GMC Yukon, on the other hand, strikes a balance between ruggedness and refinement, with the new AT4 trim catering to off-road enthusiasts and the Denali trim offering upscale luxury. The 2021 redesign enhances its appeal with a more commanding presence, notably through its large grille and luxurious interior touches, though it comes with a higher price tag for comparable features and finishes.

In terms of performance, the 2020 Expedition scores a 9 out of 10, overshadowing the Yukon's 6 out of 10. The Expedition's twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine delivers robust power and towing capacity, complemented by an adaptive damping suspension for a smoother ride. Despite its large size, the Expedition is noted for its agility and comfort in driving, albeit with some harshness over uneven terrain. The Yukon's performance is bolstered by its choice of engines, including a powerful 6.2-liter V8 in the Denali trim. However, its fuel economy and ride quality, especially with larger wheels, leave room for improvement. The new independent rear suspension and Active Response 4WD system enhance its handling and off-road capability, but it still trails behind the Expedition in overall driving experience.

Both the 2020 Ford Expedition and the 2021 GMC Yukon showcase significant capabilities in towing, cargo, and hauling people, but they do so in slightly different manners, reflecting their design philosophies and engineering choices. The Ford Expedition is designed with practicality and versatility at its core. Its King Ranch trim features power running boards for easy access, along with heated and ventilated front seats that ensure comfort for the driver and front passenger. The independent rear suspension not only improves ride quality but also increases interior space. This design decision is evident in the spaciousness offered to all passengers, including those in the third row, which is genuinely comfortable for adults and offers impressive legroom. Cargo capacity is substantial, with 19.3 cubic feet of space behind the third-row seat in the standard-length Expedition and 34.3 cubic feet in the Expedition MAX. When more space is needed, folding down the second and third rows expands the cargo area to 104.6 cubic feet (121.5 cubic feet in the MAX), providing ample room for luggage, equipment, and more. The 2021 GMC Yukon also benefits from an independent rear suspension, which is a new feature that significantly enhances the passenger and cargo space over the previous generation. The redesign results in a more comfortable environment for all occupants. Front-seat passengers enjoy 12-way power-adjustable seats that are both heated and ventilated, complemented by a heated steering wheel. Second-row passengers have access to sliding and collapsing seats for improved comfort and easier access to the third row, which now offers enough room and thigh support to comfortably accommodate adults. This is a noteworthy improvement that aligns the Yukon with competitors in terms of third-row comfort. The cargo space behind the third-row seat measures 25.5 cubic feet (41.5 cubic feet in the Yukon Denali XL), which expands to 72.6 cubic feet (93.8 cubic feet for the Denali XL) with the third row down. Maximum cargo space, with both the second and third rows folded, reaches 122.9 cubic feet (144.7 cubic feet in the Denali XL), offering extensive storage capacity.

Technology ratings show the Expedition at 8 out of 10 and the Yukon at 9 out of 10. The Expedition's SYNC 3 system is user-friendly but lacks the screen size and modernity of newer systems. Its array of connectivity and assistance features, including a novel trailer backup assist, make it a technologically competent SUV, though there's room for improvement. The Yukon, especially with the Denali Ultimate Package, showcases a more advanced infotainment system with a larger touchscreen, wireless connectivity, and premium audio options. Its technology is more up-to-date, providing a slightly better user experience, particularly in terms of entertainment and connectivity.

Both SUVs come equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, reflecting the industry's focus on protecting passengers through technology. The Expedition scores a perfect 10, bolstered by its comprehensive Ford Co-Pilot360 suite and impressive crash test ratings. The Yukon, scoring a 9, offers a robust array of safety technologies, including unique features like Teen Driver technology and a more expansive adaptive cruise control on higher trims. While both vehicles are designed with safety in mind, the Expedition's slightly higher score indicates a marginal edge in this critical area.

The Expedition and Yukon differ significantly in cost-effectiveness, scoring 7 and 5, respectively. Full-size SUVs are inherently expensive to buy and maintain, but the Expedition justifies its price with robust engineering, towing capacity, and longevity. The Yukon's redesign enhances its value proposition in terms of passenger comfort and cargo space, but its towing capabilities and additional costs for features and services may detract from its overall appeal.