2021 Ford Explorer vs 2021 GMC Yukon

CarGurus experts have given the 2021 GMC Yukon a 9 out of 10 for its look and feel, praising its rugged yet refined aesthetics that strike a balance between professional and premium grade. The Yukon stands out with its bold design, notably with the Denali trim that features an exclusive dashboard design, sophisticated interior accents, and large, appealing exterior elements including a striking grille and chrome trims.

In contrast, the 2021 Ford Explorer received a 7 out of 10 in this category. Ford's design philosophy for the Explorer emphasizes a family resemblance across its SUV lineup, with distinct sporty and sleek lines. The Explorer offers varied trim levels that enhance its exterior and interior look and feel, with the higher trims providing more luxurious features and finishes.

The performance category sees a closer contest, with the Yukon rated at 6 out of 10 and the Explorer at 7 out of 10 by CarGurus experts. The 2021 Yukon offers a choice of powerful engines, including a standard 355-horsepower V8 or an optional 420-horsepower V8 in the Denali trim, but it's criticized for its fuel efficiency. Despite its robust power, the Yukon's towing capacity and fuel economy may not appeal to all buyers.

The Ford Explorer shines with its variety of powertrains, including an eco-friendly hybrid option. Its base 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine provides a surprising 300 horsepower, making the Explorer capable of towing and providing an engaging driving experience, particularly in the ST trim. The Explorer's performance, especially with the hybrid and EcoBoost engines, offers a balanced mix of power and efficiency that slightly edges out the Yukon in this category.

In terms of form and function, both vehicles offer impressive space and comfort for passengers. The GMC Yukon, thanks to its new-for-2021 independent rear suspension, boasts significant improvements in passenger and cargo space, with the Denali trim offering luxurious seating and innovative storage solutions. The Yukon's third-row seating and cargo capacity are notably improved, making it a strong contender for families requiring space and luxury.

The Ford Explorer also excels in passenger comfort, with ample legroom in the second row and a commendable cargo space even with the third row deployed. While it offers less total cargo volume compared to the Yukon, the Explorer's design ensures that passenger and cargo space is efficiently utilized, catering well to medium-sized families.