2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 Chevrolet Trax

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax continued to build on the design updates it received in 2017, maintaining a modern look with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. By 2021, the Premier trim was removed, leaving the LS and LT trims. The LS trim offered basic features like 16-inch wheels, remote keyless entry, and a 7-inch touchscreen with the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system. The LT trim added more amenities, such as heated mirrors and upgraded seating, with optional styling and convenience packages for further customization.

The 2021 Ford Explorer presented a cohesive family resemblance with other Ford SUVs, featuring a sporty exterior with various grille options across its six trim levels. The Explorer's interior offered three rows of seating, with the base model accommodating seven passengers. The dashboard was clean and functional, highlighted by an 8-inch touchscreen and a spacious center console. The XLT trim was popular for its enhanced features, while higher trims like the Limited and ST provided luxury touches and more powerful engines.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax was powered by a single engine option, a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder producing 138 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive. While adequate for city driving, the Trax struggled with highway speeds and passing maneuvers, and its firm ride could be harsh over rough roads. The Trax's maneuverability was a plus for urban environments, but it lacked the driving excitement found in some competitors.

The 2021 Ford Explorer offered a range of powertrains, starting with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivering 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Limited Hybrid trim increased power to 310 hp, while higher trims featured a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 with up to 400 hp in the ST model. All trims used a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Explorer excelled in towing capacity, ranging from 5,000 to 5,600 pounds, though it wasn't the class leader. The ST trim provided the most engaging driving experience, but the Explorer was more about utility than sportiness.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax offered decent headroom and legroom, though rear seat comfort was lacking for long trips. It featured practical storage solutions, including multiple door trays and low cupholder placement. Cargo space was mid-range for its class, with 18.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and up to 48.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The front passenger seat could fold flat for larger items, but there was no power liftgate option.

The 2021 Ford Explorer provided seating for seven in the base model, with captain's chairs reducing capacity to six in other trims. It offered 39 inches of second-row legroom, competitive with some rivals but not class-leading. With the third row in use, the Explorer had 21 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 81 cubic feet with seats folded. This was comparable to smaller SUVs, limiting its advantage in cargo capacity.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen featuring the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, known for its user-friendly interface and vivid graphics. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports, Bluetooth, voice control, and an available WiFi hotspot, providing a solid tech package for its class.

The 2021 Ford Explorer's base trim included an 8-inch touchscreen with Ford's Sync 3 system, offering AM/FM radio, SiriusXM, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G WiFi hotspot. Higher trims upgraded to a 10.1-inch touchscreen and a premium Bang & Olufsen audio system. The Explorer also provided multiple USB ports and power outlets, with wireless charging available from the Limited trim upwards.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax received a five-star crash test rating from the NHTSA but lacked advanced safety features. Standard equipment included airbags and a backup camera, with optional blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection in the LT Convenience Package. Many competitors offered more comprehensive safety suites as standard.

The 2021 Ford Explorer was rated a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, with high scores in crash tests. It came standard with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, including features like blind-spot monitoring, lane keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Additional driver-assistance features were available in higher trims, enhancing safety options for consumers.