2021 GMC Yukon vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2021 GMC Yukon was a testament to GMC's commitment to offering a premium-grade SUV that balanced ruggedness with refinement. Positioned between Chevrolet and Cadillac, the Yukon provided a unique blend of luxury and utility, especially in its Denali trim. The redesigned model featured a bold exterior with a massive grille, intricate detailing, and upscale touches like real wood trim and leather-wrapped panels. The Denali's exclusive dashboard design and the Ultimate Package's panoramic sunroof elevated the interior's sophistication, making it a standout in the full-size SUV segment.

In contrast, the 2022 Ford Explorer offered a more athletic and modern appearance, thanks to its rear-drive platform that allowed for a long hood and rakish roofline. The Explorer's design was further enhanced by the "floating roof" effect created by blacked-out roof pillars. While the cabin of higher-trim Explorers showcased a mix of quality materials, it occasionally revealed its base trim origins. Despite this, the Explorer's interior generally felt worthy of its price, offering a sporty and engaging driving experience that appealed to those seeking a more dynamic SUV.

The 2021 GMC Yukon offered three engine options, with the Denali trim featuring a powerful 420-horsepower 6.2-litre V8 engine. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, delivered robust acceleration and a satisfying V8 burble. However, fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, with consumption averaging 16.3 litres per 100 kilometres on a testing loop. The Yukon's new Active Response 4WD system, combined with an independent rear suspension and optional Four-Corner Air Ride suspension, improved ride quality and handling, making it capable on various terrains. Despite its size, the Yukon could hustle when needed, though it wasn't particularly fun to drive.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains, including a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and a hybrid drivetrain option. The standout was the twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, available in the ST and Platinum trims. This engine provided impressive acceleration and a pleasing exhaust note, though at the cost of fuel efficiency, averaging 11.4 L/100 km. The Explorer's ride was robust and capable, handling off-road terrain with ease, especially in the Timberline trim. Its athletic nature made it more engaging to drive than typical midsize SUVs.

The 2021 GMC Yukon benefited from a new independent rear suspension, significantly enhancing passenger and cargo space. The front seats, while luxurious with leather upholstery and heating/ventilation, lacked a massage function and could feel hard over long drives. The second-row seats offered improved comfort and cargo room, with a power release function for easy third-row access. The third-row seat provided actual thigh support, accommodating adults comfortably. Cargo volume was impressive, with up to 3,480 litres available, rivaling minivan capacities.

The 2022 Ford Explorer, designed for families, offered comfort for four and occasional seating for five with a second-row bench. The third-row seat, however, was best suited for children due to limited legroom and accessibility. Higher trims featured luxurious amenities like massaging front seats and heated second-row captain's chairs. While practical storage was lacking, the Explorer provided thoughtful touches like built-in cupholders and a hands-free power liftgate. Cargo space was decent, with a maximum of 2,132 litres available when both rear rows were folded.

The 2021 GMC Yukon Denali, especially with the Ultimate Package, offered a comprehensive infotainment system with a 10.2-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Upgrades included a 14-speaker Bose audio system and a Rear Seat Media system with dual 12.6-inch displays. However, the Bose system's sound quality was underwhelming for the price. The Yukon also featured a 15-inch head-up display and multiple camera views, enhancing maneuverability and safety.

The 2022 Ford Explorer came with two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, featuring either an 8-inch or a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The larger screen felt like an afterthought, but the system included FordPass Connect, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. The Explorer's technology was functional, though the voice recognition system lagged behind newer Sync 4 technology. Additional features included a digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0, offering semi-autonomous parking capabilities.

The 2021 GMC Yukon was equipped with advanced driving assistance systems, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Higher trims added features like adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking. The ADAS operated smoothly, providing a reassuring driving experience. Crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the Yukon's substantial weight offered inherent safety.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with standard Ford Co-Pilot360 features like forward-collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety systems operated effectively, though the steering wheel's sensitivity to the driver's hands was occasionally frustrating. Overall, the Explorer's safety technology was comprehensive and reliable.