Best American Vehicles

The three-row Ford Explorer is positioned between the compact five-passenger Ford Escape and Bronco Sport models and the full-size Ford Expedition. Redesigned in 2020, buyers can choose from seven Explorer trims and four powertrains (including a hybrid model). All trims are available with four-wheel drive, which includes Ford's driver-selectable Terrain Management System to help the SUV handle specific weather and off-road driving situations.

Handsome and secure in its own skin, the Explorer is one of just a few midsize SUVs that are rear-wheel drive: a design typically associated with truck-based vehicles such as the off-road-oriented Toyota 4Runner. The Explorer is more middle-of-the-road, as its modern underpinnings give it a solid, jiggle-free feel and a quiet, confident ride on the highway. In addition to a hybrid model, buyers can select from three turbocharged EcoBoost engines that deliver ample acceleration and segment-leading trailer-towing ability on the King Ranch trim.

The Aviator is a relatively new offering from Lincoln, first appearing two years ago. Based on the midsize Ford Explorer, it's Lincoln's second-largest vehicle, measuring some 22 inches shorter than the full-size Lincoln Navigator and about 9 inches longer than the two-row Lincoln Nautilus. Like its siblings, the Aviator distinguishes itself with luxurious good looks and plush accommodations. It carries up to seven passengers across three rows of seats, delivering a comfortable and quiet ride, not to mention strong acceleration from its potent base engine - a 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6.

Higher trims also offer a plug-in hybrid powertrain capable of an estimated 21 miles of electric-only range. In keeping with the Lincoln brand, the Aviator favors luxury over sportiness, so it isn't as athletic as some rivals, such as the Audi Q7 or the BMW X7. Instead, more like the pricier Mercedes-Benz GLE, it pampers occupants with premium materials as well as abundant features and tech.

The Grand Cherokee is widely acknowledged to be the best off-roader among both midsize and full-size SUVs. With its unique Jeep persona and characteristics, it commands a premium price. The largest vehicle in Jeep's SUV lineup, the Grand Cherokee brackets the midsize-SUV segment. The five-passenger model is 9 inches shorter than the Ford Explorer, but the seven-passenger Grand Cherokee L is 6 inches longer.

Based on its size, the Grand Cherokee is more competitive with two-row midsize SUVs, such as the Ford Edge and Nissan Murano, but those vehicles have virtually no off-road credentials. In contrast, the Grand Cherokee brings class-leading off-highway capabilities along with a roomy upscale interior that rivals some luxury brands. The Grand Cherokee also stands alone with its performance-oriented SRT and Trackhawk models, which boast some of the most powerful engines on the market today.

The Cadillac XT6 was introduced as an all-new model last year. It's a seven-passenger alternative to the larger, more expensive Cadillac Escalade. Though smaller, the XT6 has plenty of room and its third row easily accommodates two adults. Interior materials are good, but the XT6 doesn't deliver the same superior quality of some competitors. The V6 engine is responsive, easily getting this large vehicle up to speed with a smooth, quiet ride. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is available. Packaged as a luxury SUV, the XT6 comes with many standard features, including a premium audio system and heated front seats. It's also strong on safety with standard automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.

The XT6's competitors include the Lincoln Aviator and Acura MDX. The Aviator delivers a luxury experience at an even higher price. The MDX has similar accommodations with a more performance-oriented feel.

The Lincoln Navigator is one of the most luxurious full-size SUVs available. And it comes loaded with the features and tech that buyers in this segment expect. The sumptuous interior feels right in step with this class of vehicle, too. The four-wheel independent suspension and noise-absorbing countermeasures engineered by Lincoln deliver a cocoon of comfort and quietness.

The gargantuan people-hauler is based on the Ford Expedition, which itself shares much of its mechanical makeup with the Ford F-150 pickup. So unlike crossover SUVs that are built with a car-like body and chassis, the Navigator is built like a truck with a separate body riding on a full ladder frame. With heavy construction like that, it's not surprising that all of the Navigator's luxuries are backed by serious capability.

The Navigator is available in two lengths, the standard model and the L, which offers a 9-inch longer wheelbase and enough cargo space to overpack for any adventure. Every Navigator has the same potent powertrain: a 450-horsepower twin-turbo V6 paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Navigator's all-wheel-drive system is optional and top models receive a low range-equipped four-wheel-drive system packaged with the heavy-duty trailer tow package. Speaking of towing, a properly equipped two-wheel-drive Navigator can move up to 8,700 pounds of trailer, which is more than any other full-size luxury SUV.

The five-passenger Chevrolet Blazer sits between the Chevrolet Equinox and three-row Chevrolet Traverse in Chevy's expansive lineup of crossovers and SUVs. It boasts a sporty exterior and interior design inspired by the Chevrolet Camaro, which makes it the most visually interesting crossover in the midsize class. Unlike the conservative Honda Passport and Ford Edge, the Blazer has an unmistakable look. It also backs up its edgy styling with an engaging driving experience.

Spirited dynamics do come at a higher cost, as the base four-cylinder engine isn't exceptionally powerful or fuel-efficient. We like the optional turbocharged four-cylinder. But our favorite engine, the 308-horsepower V6, actually backs up the Blazer's sporty looks with a responsive feel and strong acceleration. Keep in mind that although the Blazer has a low base price, adding the options that make it so fun to drive quickly pushes it to near-luxury pricing territory.

Ford's all-electric 2021 Mustang Mach-E will never be a real Mustang to those who believe the necessary ingredient is a thundering gasoline engine. But it certainly is the Mustang of the EV world — compact, sporty, fun to drive, and good-looking. With a starting price of just under $44,000 (before incentives that could knock $7,500 or more off the real cost), it won't break most budgets.

One strike against the Mach-E may be that it is a crossover, not a coupe. But if crossovers were a thing when Ford introduced the Mustang nearly 57 years ago, the original probably would have been one, too. Fact is, most of the Mach-E's competitors — from the soon-to-launch Audi Q4 e-tron and Hyundai Ioniq 5/Kia EV6 siblings to the Tesla Model Y, Jaguar I-Pace and Audi e-tron — are crossovers and not cars.

On the plus side, the 2021 Mach-E is well-balanced, loaded with high-tech treats, handles like a nicely-tuned performance car, and comes in multiple trims with a variety of power packages. Its price also competes very well against similarly equipped compact electric crossovers. Most of the European models start where the Mustang Mach-E tops out. The $50,000 Tesla Model Y is close in starting price but no longer qualifies for the federal credit while the Mach-E still does.

According to company founder Elon Musk's vision, the Tesla Model 3 was supposed to be the car that would democratize electric vehicles. It's meant to be a midsize EV family sedan within reach of anyone who could otherwise afford a fully loaded Honda Accord or Toyota Camry.

But things haven't exactly panned out that way. The 2021 Tesla Model 3 starts at around $40,000, for one thing (about $3,000 more than a top-trim Accord), making it more of a gamble for those who just want a rock-solid family car. Tax incentives can lessen the bite. But quality control issues and uncertain resale value also dampen enthusiasm for Tesla's mainstream play (note that a $7,500 federal tax credit no longer applies to the Model 3).

Still, there's no denying that the Model 3 has broadened the appeal of EV ownership. It's practical, offering plenty of room for four passengers. Plus, there's a conventional trunk and a "frunk," a smaller front trunk for cargo. The Model 3 is the most "tech-forward" car you'll find in large volume production. Nearly all of Tesla's features and functions are controlled via the tablet-style touchscreen. This tech will delight some users and baffle others. But it eliminates a swath of switchgear inside the cabin, leaving behind a slick, stark interior design straight out of a German art movement.

Sure, there are many other EVs that cost less than the Model 3. Most are sized like compact cars, subcompacts, crossovers, or hatchbacks. Few come close to offering 353 miles of range. However, the new Ford Mustang Mach-E comes close enough at 305 miles.

The Model 3 is without a peer in some ways and feels like a car from the future. It also has some fundamental flaws that buyers would reject in cars costing half as much. The Model 3 may be imperfect, like the future, but it's a fascinating window into what's ahead.

The 2021 Ford Bronco marks the return of this beloved vehicle for a whole new generation of off-road enthusiasts. It stays true to its roots with strong off-road capability across the full lineup. This time around, it's available as a two-door or four-door with a comfortable interior and removable doors and roof panels. It offers several capable engines along with a fully featured infotainment system and plenty of standard safety features. There's also its unique styling, which makes it stand out from the sea of SUVs currently on the market. There are lots of choices if you want an SUV, but few have the style, capability and flexibility of the all-new Ford Bronco.

There are a few formidable competitors, most notably the Jeep Wrangler which offers similar off-road prowess with the optional plug-in hybrid, performance V8, and diesel power not found on the Bronco. The Toyota 4Runner has good off-road capability with more room for cargo, but an aging interior design. On the pricier side, there's the Land Rover Defender which provides excellent off-road capability, rugged styling and a modern cabin.