2021 Ford Expedition vs 2022 GMC Yukon

When the 2021 Ford Expedition Platinum greeted our travel-weary party at Los Angeles International Airport, it resembled a shining beacon of comfort. Having just disembarked from a restless redeye flight from Maui, the lavishly appointed Platinum trim of the Expedition was a welcome sight for our tired group. Its extravagant features set it apart as the zenith of the Ford Expedition's lineup, which starts from the XL STX and heightens through the XLT, Limited, and King Ranch before culminating in the Platinum. Our test vehicle stood out with its Magnetic gray paint, 4WD, Heavy Duty Trailer Tow Package, electronic limited-slip differential, and second-row captain’s chairs. The power-deploying running boards and plush leather interior signified luxury, yet the reality struck when we discovered that the 2021 Ford Expedition couldn't house all our carry-on suitcases and backpacks. One traveler ended up holding a suitcase in their lap for a 40-mile ride, highlighting the limitations of the standard-length model. The extended-length Expedition MAX could have resolved this with its additional cargo space. On the outside, the Expedition Platinum exuded an intricate chrome grille, sizable 22-inch machined-face aluminum wheels, and stylish brightwork. Its grand appearance contrasted sharply with minivans that, while practical, could not evoke the same powerful presence. Conversely, the 2022 GMC Yukon was unmistakably a chromed marvel, even starting from the base SLE model. By the time you ascended to the Denali trim, it was clear that GMC intended to make a bold statement with its voluminous use of chrome. The Denali boasted a multi-dimensional grille reminiscent of an industrial-sized cheese grater, flanked by signature C-shaped headlights and encapsulated by an oversized chrome bumper. Our test vehicle flaunted 22-inch bright machined aluminum wheels and was finished in a striking Redwood Metallic paint, showcasing an air of sophistication. Inside, the Yukon continued to impress. It featured a spacious, tastefully designed cabin with the ability to accommodate up to nine people on the SLE trim and came standard with perforated leather on all trims above it. The Denali trim elevated luxury further with four distinct interior design options not available on other trims, blending contrasting colors, unique stitching, and natural wood details for an exclusive feel.

The 2021 Ford Expedition packed a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The base engine produced 375 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 470 pound-feet of torque at 2,250 rpm, except in the Platinum trim, where it was bumped to 400 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. This power facilitated impressive acceleration, even when fully loaded. Its towing capacity ranged from 9,000 to 9,300 pounds depending on the configuration, a testament to its robust capabilities. The Expedition's ride quality was somewhat compromised by the Platinum trim's 22-inch wheels. Despite a standard adaptive damping suspension, the shorter-sidewall tires conveyed plenty of road shock into the cabin. The Expedition’s independent rear suspension, however, contributed to a solid road grip and a relatively smooth ride over bumps. Off-road enthusiasts could opt for the FX4 Off-Road Package available on the XLT and Limited trims, which added several enhancements like off-road shocks, skid plates, and Terrain Management driving modes. The Expedition’s EPA-rated fuel economy for the 4WD version stood at 19 mpg combined, although our test managed an average of 17.1 mpg. In contrast, the 2022 GMC Yukon offered a choice of three engines. Most trims came standard with a 5.3-liter V8 engine producing 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, while the Denali and optional AT4 featured a 6.2-liter V8 generating 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, GMC introduced a 3.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine delivering 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, emphasizing torque and fuel economy. This diesel engine provided an impressive range, allowing over 648 miles on a single tank. All engines worked in tandem with a 10-speed automatic transmission and featured options for RWD or 4WD, except the AT4, which was exclusively 4WD. The Yukon's towing capacity peaked at 8,400 pounds with the 5.3-liter V8 and RWD configuration. Independent rear suspension, introduced with the 2021 redesign, improved both passenger comfort and cargo space while ensuring a smoother ride. The Denali trim with the 6.2-liter V8 offered more than adequate power, though the exhaust note didn't quite match the melodic rumble of some competitors. Fuel efficiency was superior with the diesel option, providing a cost-effective alternative without sacrificing capability.

The 2021 Ford Expedition’s primary drawback lay in its inability to transport both six people and their luggage simultaneously in the standard-length model. However, it excelled in terms of comfort and utility once on the road. The interior housed large, wide seats even for third-row passengers, though only front seats offered a coveted massage function. Storage space in the Expedition included 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row, which expanded to 57.5 cubic feet with the third-row seats folded, and a maximum of 104.6 cubic feet with both the second and third rows down. The Expedition MAX rectified the cargo limitation with 34.3 cubic feet behind the third row, 73.3 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum cargo volume of 121.5 cubic feet, though still slightly less than what minivans offered. The 2022 GMC Yukon, however, made significant strides following its 2021 redesign. It increased third-row legroom by over 10 inches to 34.9 inches, creating a much-improved seating experience. The cargo space also saw a boost, increasing from 15.3 cubic feet to 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row. The wheelbase and length extensions, coupled with the transition to an independent rear suspension, provided additional usable space. Second-row passengers enjoyed flat-folding seats, and options included power fold-and-tumble bucket seats for easier access to the third row. Our test Yukon’s power-retractable assist steps and the innovative power-sliding center console amplified convenience. The console included a hidden storage drawer and the ability to slide back for extra storage space.

The 2021 Ford Expedition came with the Sync 3 infotainment system, a bit outdated but still functional. Its 8-inch touchscreen was responsive enough and included essentials like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, FordPass Connect services, and a navigation system. The voice recognition feature allowed basic natural commands. Our test vehicle boasted a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system and wireless smartphone charging but missed out on the dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system. In contrast, the 2022 GMC Yukon offered a more advanced setup. Positioned between the primary gauges was a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information center. While its small roller control could be awkward, the information was clear and logically arranged. Standard on higher trims and optional on others, the head-up display spanned an impressive 15 inches and provided essential data including an off-road inclinometer. The Yukon's 10.2-inch touchscreen came standard with Google Built-In, providing access to Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play Store, alongside wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an available WiFi hotspot. The Denali trim featured a Bose 14-speaker audio system and a rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch touchscreen displays accessible via HDMI ports.

The 2021 Ford Expedition, with its substantial curb weight of at least 5,368 pounds, naturally had some safety advantages. It earned a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA, though the RWD version had a notably lower three-star rating for rollover resistance compared to four stars for the 4WD. Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 included features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, semi-autonomous parking, and a 360-degree camera system. The 2022 GMC Yukon came equipped with GMC’s Pro Safety suite of driver aids as standard, enhancing features on higher trims with Pro Safety Plus. This included blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear park assist. Additionally, the Safety Alert Seat and adjustable rear camera mirror added further layers of safety. The NHTSA rated it four out of five stars overall, with specific ratings of four stars for front crashes, five stars for side crashes, and three stars for rollover resistance. The IIHS hadn’t tested this generation as of the writing.