2020 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe

The 2020 Ford Explorer has evolved significantly from its early '90s roots, adapting to consumer demands for more technology, power, and space, while also introducing hybrid and high-performance variants. However, its price point has risen, challenging its value proposition against less expensive competitors. The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe has made substantial improvements in interior comfort, cargo space, and driving dynamics, addressing previous criticisms while maintaining its stronghold in the full-size SUV market. This iteration brings technological advancements and a variety of trim levels to cater to a wide range of preferences and needs.

CarGurus rates both the 2020 Ford Explorer and the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe at 8 out of 10 for performance. The Explorer's rear-wheel-drive chassis and available engines, particularly the 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 in the ST trim, offer exceptional performance, making it a leader in its class for power and driving dynamics. Despite its impressive capabilities, the Explorer's fuel efficiency and towing capacity are points of consideration for potential buyers. The Tahoe's performance is bolstered by its engine lineup, including a standard 5.3-liter V8 and an available 6.2-liter V8 or turbo-diesel option. The introduction of an independent rear suspension and available adaptive dampers significantly improves ride quality, making the Tahoe impressively smooth and capable, both on and off the road.

Experts give the 2020 Ford Explorer a 9 out of 10 and the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe a perfect 10 out of 10 in form and function. The Ford Explorer provides a spacious and comfortable interior for passengers, with substantial space improvements over its predecessor. The vehicle's design allows for ample room in all three rows, making long journeys more comfortable for passengers. The cargo space behind the third row is 18 cubic feet, which, while slightly reduced from previous model years, prioritizes passenger space without significantly compromising luggage capacity. With the second row folded, cargo space expands to 48 cubic feet, and with all seats folded, the Explorer offers a total of 88 cubic feet, marking a significant improvement in cargo capacity. The Chevrolet Tahoe has made remarkable strides in enhancing passenger comfort and maximizing cargo space, benefiting from its new independent rear suspension design. This change allows for a more comfortable seating arrangement across all three rows and a substantial increase in cargo volume. The Tahoe boasts 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, which expands to 72.6 cubic feet with the third row folded and reaches a maximum of 122.9 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded, setting a new benchmark for cargo capacity in the full-size SUV category. Additionally, the Tahoe's innovative features, such as the power sliding storage console, further enhance its functionality and user-friendliness, solidifying its top score in form and function.

Technology ratings are 7 out of 10 for the Explorer and 9 out of 10 for the Tahoe. The Explorer's technology package includes an 8-inch touchscreen with Sync 3, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G Wi-Fi hotspot. Higher trims offer more advanced features, but the system lacks some of the innovation and user-customization options found in competitors. The Tahoe's 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system represents a significant upgrade in terms of computing power, over-the-air updates, and cybersecurity. Its user-friendly interface, coupled with advanced features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, sets a high standard for the segment.

Safety ratings are 8 out of 10 for the Explorer and 9 out of 10 for the Tahoe. The Explorer comes equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360, offering a suite of safety features, though its semi-automated driving system has room for improvement. The Tahoe includes a comprehensive array of standard and optional safety technologies, providing a secure and reassuring driving experience.

CarGurus rates the Explorer's cost effectiveness at 6 out of 10 and the Tahoe's at 8 out of 10. The Explorer's higher trims reach luxury vehicle pricing without matching interior quality, making it less appealing when compared to more affordable options that offer similar space and luxury. The Tahoe's higher price point is justified by its significant improvements in comfort, capacity, and technology, making it a more cost-effective choice for those needing a full-size SUV's capabilities.