People haulers have always been a thing, but the marriage between passenger space and utility is highly apparent in modern SUVs. They promise daily driving competency as well as weekend adventuring talent
...Read MorePeople haulers have always been a thing, but the marriage between passenger space and utility is highly apparent in modern SUVs. They promise daily driving competency as well as weekend adventuring talent. The desire for of-the-moment tech also is strong, with drivers and passengers demanding 24/7 connectivity. That means enough USB ports to charge multiple smartphones or interact with a system (usually on an oversized touchscreen) that requires zero learning curve and some form of voice control. Light trucks—a category that includes pickups, SUVs and minivans—now account for nearly 80% of new car sales in the U.S. Almost 70% of those sales are from SUVs; about 25% fit into the mid- and full-size category, stretching between 190 and more than 200 inches. No matter what the flavor—mainstream, premium, off-road ready—it’s undeniable that Americans prefer larger vehicles. Cheaper gas also makes the case for SUVs even stronger. (Today petrol sells for 20 cents a gallon less than the historical inflation-adjusted average of $2.40, according to AAA). Many advances in safety technology and powertrains have made these once cumbersome transporters more livable and fuel-efficient than ever before. Our top picks identify the utility vehicles that go above and beyond, offering buyers that want to haul people and things standout characteristics such as affordable luxury, approachable capability, thoughtful interiors, innovative powertrains and tech—so much tech.
Read LessPeople haulers have always been a thing, but the marriage between passenger space and utility is highly apparent in modern SUVs. They promise daily driving competency as well as weekend adventuring talent. The desire for of-the-moment tech also is strong, with drivers and passengers demanding 24/7 connectivity. That means enough USB ports to charge multiple smartphones or interact with a system (usually
...Read MorePeople haulers have always been a thing, but the marriage between passenger space and utility is highly apparent in modern SUVs. They promise daily driving competency as well as weekend adventuring talent. The desire for of-the-moment tech also is strong, with drivers and passengers demanding 24/7 connectivity. That means enough USB ports to charge multiple smartphones or interact with a system (usually on an oversized touchscreen) that requires zero learning curve and some form of voice control. Light trucks—a category that includes pickups, SUVs and minivans—now account for nearly 80% of new car sales in the U.S. Almost 70% of those sales are from SUVs; about 25% fit into the mid- and full-size category, stretching between 190 and more than 200 inches. No matter what the flavor—mainstream, premium, off-road ready—it’s undeniable that Americans prefer larger vehicles. Cheaper gas also makes the case for SUVs even stronger. (Today petrol sells for 20 cents a gallon less than the historical inflation-adjusted average of $2.40, according to AAA). Many advances in safety technology and powertrains have made these once cumbersome transporters more livable and fuel-efficient than ever before. Our top picks identify the utility vehicles that go above and beyond, offering buyers that want to haul people and things standout characteristics such as affordable luxury, approachable capability, thoughtful interiors, innovative powertrains and tech—so much tech.
Read Less- Genesis GV80 An Attention-Grabbing Premiere SUV
- Kia Telluride Uptown Looks Without Breaking The Bank
- BMW X5 Prioritizes Handling And Power
- Hyundai Palisade The Dark Horse
- Subaru Outback A Companion For All Adventures
- Lincoln Aviator All-American Luxury And Comfort
- Toyota Highlander Playing it Safe, Efficiently
- Chevrolet Tahoe Bigger Inside And Out
- Land Rover Defender An Off-Road Icon Reimagined
![2021 Genesis GV80](https://web.archive.org/web/20211004230149/https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/960x600/https://www.forbes.com/wheels/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2021-Genesis-GV80-gallery.jpg)
Why We Picked It
The GV80 is the first SUV from Genesis, the high-value luxury division of Hyundai. The GV80’s styling is reminiscent of Bentley, unsurprising as its designer is responsible for fashioning the ultra-high-end Bentayga. It also shares driving characteristics with German rivals thanks to its rear-drive platform (not to mention the head of Genesis R&D is the former chief engineer for BMW’s M performance division). Besides being fun-to-drive, the GV80’s platform accentuates its long hood and cab-rearward design, setting it apart visually from front-drive, car-based SUVs. The GV80 offers two engine choices: a 300-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 that makes 375 horsepower and comes only with an all-wheel drivetrain. The luxurious interior of the GV80 features a high-mounted 14.5-inch touchscreen with navigation that overlays street camera views with directional graphics. Not so flashy tech includes multiple collision avoidance systems, semi-autonomous adaptive cruise control and remote parking for either parallel or perpendicular spots.
Pros & Cons
- Standout design, tech and luxury
- Euro-style ride and handling
- Solid value
- Genesis’ lack of brand cachet
- Optional third-row seat strictly for kids
- Small dealer network
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The GV80 is the first SUV from Genesis, the high-value luxury division of Hyundai. The GV80’s styling is reminiscent of Bentley, unsurprising as its designer is responsible for fashioning the ultra-high-end Bentayga. It also shares driving characteristics with German rivals thanks to its rear-drive platform (not to mention the head of Genesis R&D is the former chief engineer
...Read MoreThe GV80 is the first SUV from Genesis, the high-value luxury division of Hyundai. The GV80’s styling is reminiscent of Bentley, unsurprising as its designer is responsible for fashioning the ultra-high-end Bentayga. It also shares driving characteristics with German rivals thanks to its rear-drive platform (not to mention the head of Genesis R&D is the former chief engineer for BMW’s M performance division). Besides being fun-to-drive, the GV80’s platform accentuates its long hood and cab-rearward design, setting it apart visually from front-drive, car-based SUVs. The GV80 offers two engine choices: a 300-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder and a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 that makes 375 horsepower and comes only with an all-wheel drivetrain. The luxurious interior of the GV80 features a high-mounted 14.5-inch touchscreen with navigation that overlays street camera views with directional graphics. Not so flashy tech includes multiple collision avoidance systems, semi-autonomous adaptive cruise control and remote parking for either parallel or perpendicular spots.
Read Less- Standout design, tech and luxury
- Euro-style ride and handling
- Solid value
- Genesis’ lack of brand cachet
- Optional third-row seat strictly for kids
- Small dealer network
![2021 Kia Telluride](https://web.archive.org/web/20211004230149/https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/960x600/https://www.forbes.com/wheels/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2021-Kia-Telluride-dirt.jpg)
Why We Picked It
Kia’s Telluride three-row SUV is having a moment, and that’s because it’s a new shiny toy that does all the things and looks more expensive than it is. It sits on the same platform as Hyundai’s Palisade but offers a different experience. The Telluride’s 3.8-liter V6 engine has 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque and delivers a sporty ride. When equipped with all-wheel drive, it shows off-road prowess unexpected from the Kia value brand. Its ground clearance is 8 inches, the minimum required for consideration as an authentic trailblazer. Speaking of eight, the base model gets an 8-inch touchscreen while the other trims get a 10.3-inch screen with wireless phone charging. The top-spec SX trim costs—wait for it—under $45,000. For 2021 there’s also a new Nightfall package that blacks everything out (wheels, grille, badging), so for buyers that want a luxury experience that doesn’t scream value, this might be the answer.
Pros & Cons
- Impressive and beautiful cabin
- Unbelievable value
- Capable and comfortable for families
- Fuel economy could be better
- Not very fun to drive
- Interior needs more small-item storage
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Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
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Kia’s Telluride three-row SUV is having a moment, and that’s because it’s a new shiny toy that does all the things and looks more expensive than it is. It sits on the same platform as Hyundai’s Palisade but offers a different experience. The Telluride’s 3.8-liter V6 engine has 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque and delivers a sporty ride. When equipped with all-wheel
...Read MoreKia’s Telluride three-row SUV is having a moment, and that’s because it’s a new shiny toy that does all the things and looks more expensive than it is. It sits on the same platform as Hyundai’s Palisade but offers a different experience. The Telluride’s 3.8-liter V6 engine has 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque and delivers a sporty ride. When equipped with all-wheel drive, it shows off-road prowess unexpected from the Kia value brand. Its ground clearance is 8 inches, the minimum required for consideration as an authentic trailblazer. Speaking of eight, the base model gets an 8-inch touchscreen while the other trims get a 10.3-inch screen with wireless phone charging. The top-spec SX trim costs—wait for it—under $45,000. For 2021 there’s also a new Nightfall package that blacks everything out (wheels, grille, badging), so for buyers that want a luxury experience that doesn’t scream value, this might be the answer.
Read Less- Impressive and beautiful cabin
- Unbelievable value
- Capable and comfortable for families
- Fuel economy could be better
- Not very fun to drive
- Interior needs more small-item storage
![2021 BMW X5](https://web.archive.org/web/20211004230149/https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/960x600/https://www.forbes.com/wheels/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2021_BMW_X5_Gallery1.jpg)
Why We Picked It
The BMW X5 midsize SUV debuted in 2000 and was the German automaker’s first utility vehicle. Now in its fourth generation, the X5 outsells every sedan in BMW’s lineup and is second only to the smaller X3 crossover. The X5 can carry five or seven passengers, and offers kid-hauling drivers a premium cabin experience and impressive space (the optional third row is a little cramped). The 33 cubic-feet of cargo space behind the X5’s second row also is top-of-class.
Following the 2020 introduction of the performance-oriented M50i, which offers a 523-horsepower twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8, the engine lineup now has a plug-in hybrid option. The new-for-2021, all-wheel-drive-only xDrive 45e replaces the 50i and is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine (same as in the 40i models) paired with an electric motor that delivers a combined 389 horsepower. The onboard 24 kilowatt-hour battery pack gives the X5 30 miles of all-electric range. In addition to the three powertrains, the X5’s slope-roofed counterpart, the X6, helps cast a wider net for buyers who prefer sportier looks.
Pros & Cons
- Powerful engine lineup
- Sharp reflexes
- Attractive interior
- Performance models command big money
- Available third row is cramped
- Faces a lot of excellent rivals
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Why We Picked It
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The BMW X5 midsize SUV debuted in 2000 and was the German automaker’s first utility vehicle. Now in its fourth generation, the X5 outsells every sedan in BMW’s lineup and is second only to the smaller X3 crossover. The X5 can carry five or seven passengers, and offers kid-hauling drivers a premium cabin experience and impressive space (the optional third row is a little cramped)
...Read MoreThe BMW X5 midsize SUV debuted in 2000 and was the German automaker’s first utility vehicle. Now in its fourth generation, the X5 outsells every sedan in BMW’s lineup and is second only to the smaller X3 crossover. The X5 can carry five or seven passengers, and offers kid-hauling drivers a premium cabin experience and impressive space (the optional third row is a little cramped). The 33 cubic-feet of cargo space behind the X5’s second row also is top-of-class.
Following the 2020 introduction of the performance-oriented M50i, which offers a 523-horsepower twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8, the engine lineup now has a plug-in hybrid option. The new-for-2021, all-wheel-drive-only xDrive 45e replaces the 50i and is powered by a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine (same as in the 40i models) paired with an electric motor that delivers a combined 389 horsepower. The onboard 24 kilowatt-hour battery pack gives the X5 30 miles of all-electric range. In addition to the three powertrains, the X5’s slope-roofed counterpart, the X6, helps cast a wider net for buyers who prefer sportier looks.
Read Less- Powerful engine lineup
- Sharp reflexes
- Attractive interior
- Performance models command big money
- Available third row is cramped
- Faces a lot of excellent rivals
![2021 Hyundai Palisade](https://web.archive.org/web/20211004230149/https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/960x600/https://www.forbes.com/wheels/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2021-Hyundai-Palisade-gallery1.jpg)
Why We Picked It
The Hyundai Palisade three-row SUV shares a platform with the Kia Telluride but differentiates itself with smoother styling and extra chrome detailing for a more upscale aesthetic. All trims are powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. With trailer brakes, the pretty SUV can haul an impressive 5,000 pounds. It also offers a segment-leading 18 cubic-feet behind the third row.
For 2021, Hyundai added a top-end Calligraphy trim that includes exclusive exterior lighting, 20-inch wheels, a unique grille design and a Nappa leather interior. It also gets all-wheel drive and a pre-set driving mode for the snow, which means it’s proficient in inclement weather, a major plus for parents who live in seasonal regions. What really wows is the long list of standard safety and driver-assistance tech across the line: adaptive cruise control with stop and go capability, lane following, lane keeping assistance, forward collision avoidance assistance with pedestrian detection and driver attention warning. All this and even the highest trim doesn’t crest the $50,000 mark.
Pros & Cons
- Refined driving dynamics
- Plush, pleasant interior
- Advanced safety features abound
- Some handling sharpness is compromised for ride comfort
- The Kia Telluride, Palisade’s sister car, steals the show with sharper looks
- Some brand snobs will have a hard time with the Hyundai nameplate
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Why We Picked It
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The Hyundai Palisade three-row SUV shares a platform with the Kia Telluride but differentiates itself with smoother styling and extra chrome detailing for a more upscale aesthetic. All trims are powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. With trailer brakes, the pretty SUV can haul an impressive 5,000 pounds. It also offers a segment-leading
...Read MoreThe Hyundai Palisade three-row SUV shares a platform with the Kia Telluride but differentiates itself with smoother styling and extra chrome detailing for a more upscale aesthetic. All trims are powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. With trailer brakes, the pretty SUV can haul an impressive 5,000 pounds. It also offers a segment-leading 18 cubic-feet behind the third row.
For 2021, Hyundai added a top-end Calligraphy trim that includes exclusive exterior lighting, 20-inch wheels, a unique grille design and a Nappa leather interior. It also gets all-wheel drive and a pre-set driving mode for the snow, which means it’s proficient in inclement weather, a major plus for parents who live in seasonal regions. What really wows is the long list of standard safety and driver-assistance tech across the line: adaptive cruise control with stop and go capability, lane following, lane keeping assistance, forward collision avoidance assistance with pedestrian detection and driver attention warning. All this and even the highest trim doesn’t crest the $50,000 mark.
Read Less- Refined driving dynamics
- Plush, pleasant interior
- Advanced safety features abound
- Some handling sharpness is compromised for ride comfort
- The Kia Telluride, Palisade’s sister car, steals the show with sharper looks
- Some brand snobs will have a hard time with the Hyundai nameplate
![2021 Subaru Outback](https://web.archive.org/web/20211004230149/https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/960x600/https://www.forbes.com/wheels/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2021_Subaru_Outback_Gallery1.jpg)
Why We Picked It
The sixth-generation Outback debuted for the 2020 model year and is the most handsomely styled Outback yet. Its muscular lines and athletic presence underlines its inherent capability, and its 8.7-inches of ground clearance is obvious at first glance. The Outback has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. Higher trims get a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. All models can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. The two-function X-Mode all-wheel-drive system automatically adjusts traction based on the situation (if, say, one wheel lifts off the ground) and gives the Outback a boost on snow, dirt and mud. Inside, two standout features make life easier: a giant 11.6-inch touchscreen and seat release levers that make easy work of folding rear seats (which expands cargo space to 75 cubic feet). The Outback includes a slew of great safety features, from its 360-degree surround-view camera and reverse automatic braking, which will stop the car if it detects an obstacle behind it.
Pros & Cons
- Excellent storage space for small items
- Surprising performance off-road
- Generous tech and entertainment features
- CVT saps fun from otherwise great powertrain
- Road noise is annoying at highway speeds
- Wagon shape not for everyone
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Why We Picked It
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The sixth-generation Outback debuted for the 2020 model year and is the most handsomely styled Outback yet. Its muscular lines and athletic presence underlines its inherent capability, and its 8.7-inches of ground clearance is obvious at first glance. The Outback has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. Higher trims get a turbocharged
...Read MoreThe sixth-generation Outback debuted for the 2020 model year and is the most handsomely styled Outback yet. Its muscular lines and athletic presence underlines its inherent capability, and its 8.7-inches of ground clearance is obvious at first glance. The Outback has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque. Higher trims get a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 260 horsepower and 277 pound-feet of torque. All models can tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. The two-function X-Mode all-wheel-drive system automatically adjusts traction based on the situation (if, say, one wheel lifts off the ground) and gives the Outback a boost on snow, dirt and mud. Inside, two standout features make life easier: a giant 11.6-inch touchscreen and seat release levers that make easy work of folding rear seats (which expands cargo space to 75 cubic feet). The Outback includes a slew of great safety features, from its 360-degree surround-view camera and reverse automatic braking, which will stop the car if it detects an obstacle behind it.
Read Less- Excellent storage space for small items
- Surprising performance off-road
- Generous tech and entertainment features
- CVT saps fun from otherwise great powertrain
- Road noise is annoying at highway speeds
- Wagon shape not for everyone
![2021 Lincoln Aviator](https://web.archive.org/web/20211004230149/https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/960x600/https://www.forbes.com/wheels/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2021-Lincoln-Aviator-gallery1.jpg)
Why We Picked It
The Aviator was discontinued after a single generation in the early 2000s, but it returned as a sleek baby Navigator for the 2020 model year. With seating for up to seven people, it shares its exterior styling with its larger SUV sibling. There are no wrong choices when it comes to Aviator powertrains; both are smooth and compliant. All Aviators use the same powertrain, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that delivers 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. A plug-in hybrid model, only available with AWD, pairs it with a 13.6 kilowatt-hour battery pack and an electric motor for 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It’s shockingly quick, gets 23 mpg in combined city and highway driving and can travel 21 miles on electricity alone. Standard across the lineup is blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assistance and automatic high-beam headlights.
Pros & Cons
- Smooth, refined gas powertrains
- Sharp, upscale styling, inside and out
- Plush interior
- Hybrid feels clunky at times
- Can become expensive, quickly
- Gas fuel economy not the best
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Why We Picked It
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The Aviator was discontinued after a single generation in the early 2000s, but it returned as a sleek baby Navigator for the 2020 model year. With seating for up to seven people, it shares its exterior styling with its larger SUV sibling. There are no wrong choices when it comes to Aviator powertrains; both are smooth and compliant. All Aviators use the same powertrain, a twin-turbocharged
...Read MoreThe Aviator was discontinued after a single generation in the early 2000s, but it returned as a sleek baby Navigator for the 2020 model year. With seating for up to seven people, it shares its exterior styling with its larger SUV sibling. There are no wrong choices when it comes to Aviator powertrains; both are smooth and compliant. All Aviators use the same powertrain, a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 that delivers 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. A plug-in hybrid model, only available with AWD, pairs it with a 13.6 kilowatt-hour battery pack and an electric motor for 494 horsepower and 630 pound-feet of torque. It’s shockingly quick, gets 23 mpg in combined city and highway driving and can travel 21 miles on electricity alone. Standard across the lineup is blind spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assistance and automatic high-beam headlights.
Read Less- Smooth, refined gas powertrains
- Sharp, upscale styling, inside and out
- Plush interior
- Hybrid feels clunky at times
- Can become expensive, quickly
- Gas fuel economy not the best
![2021 Toyota Highlander](https://web.archive.org/web/20211004230149/https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/960x600/https://www.forbes.com/wheels/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2021_Toyota_Highlander_Gallery1.jpg)
Why We Picked It
The Toyota Highlander does just about everything well: carry up to eight passengers comfortably as long as the row-three trio are kids, keep occupants safe with a long list of standard safety features and driver assists, tow a 5,000-pound boat and entertain the occupants front and back on long trips. A 295-horsepower V6 engine is standard, but a hybrid version uses a four-cylinder engine and two electric motors to provide better than 35 mpg in city and highway driving.
The Highlander offers front-seat passengers an inset shelf in the dash that’s perfect for stashing smartphones, lip balm, loose change or a sandwich (we’re not judging). There’s also ducting from the shelf to the USB jacks at the base of the console that hides the cords. This doesn’t improve zero-to-60 times (7 to 8 seconds), but it makes real people real happy during daily commutes and long trips. A year into its fourth generation, the Highlander is tracking to amass nearly a quarter-million sales in 2020, best of any midsize SUV.
Pros & Cons
- Available hybrid
- Solid list of standard features
- Quiet, comfortable ride
- Confusing mix of buttons and on-screen controls
- Tiny third row
- Disconnected driving feel
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Why We Picked It
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The Toyota Highlander does just about everything well: carry up to eight passengers comfortably as long as the row-three trio are kids, keep occupants safe with a long list of standard safety features and driver assists, tow a 5,000-pound boat and entertain the occupants front and back on long trips. A 295-horsepower V6 engine is standard, but a hybrid version uses a four-cylinder
...Read MoreThe Toyota Highlander does just about everything well: carry up to eight passengers comfortably as long as the row-three trio are kids, keep occupants safe with a long list of standard safety features and driver assists, tow a 5,000-pound boat and entertain the occupants front and back on long trips. A 295-horsepower V6 engine is standard, but a hybrid version uses a four-cylinder engine and two electric motors to provide better than 35 mpg in city and highway driving.
The Highlander offers front-seat passengers an inset shelf in the dash that’s perfect for stashing smartphones, lip balm, loose change or a sandwich (we’re not judging). There’s also ducting from the shelf to the USB jacks at the base of the console that hides the cords. This doesn’t improve zero-to-60 times (7 to 8 seconds), but it makes real people real happy during daily commutes and long trips. A year into its fourth generation, the Highlander is tracking to amass nearly a quarter-million sales in 2020, best of any midsize SUV.
Read Less- Available hybrid
- Solid list of standard features
- Quiet, comfortable ride
- Confusing mix of buttons and on-screen controls
- Tiny third row
- Disconnected driving feel
![2021 Chevrolet Tahoe](https://web.archive.org/web/20211004230149/https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/960x600/https://www.forbes.com/wheels/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2021_Chevrolet_Tahoe_Gallery1_AK.jpg)
Why We Picked It
The full-size Chevrolet Tahoe is a completely new beast for 2021, bigger inside and out, with more interior room for passengers and cargo. There’s also a new independent rear suspension, which gives the truck-based SUV a smoother ride. The new suspension also helped give third-row passengers 10 additional inches of legroom and added 10 extra cubic feet of storage space behind the third row.
The powertrain lineup still comprises the 355-horsepower 5.3-liter and 420 horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engines and offers a new third option: a 3.0-liter six-cylinder Duramax turbo-diesel that matches the larger V8’s 460 pound-feet of torque and gets 24 mpg in city and highway driving combined. Based on testing, it also should easily top 30 mpg on the highway, well above the EPA’s 26 mpg rating. The new Tahoe gets a standard 10-inch touchscreen and a slew of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, a following distance indicator and automatic headlamps.
Pros & Cons
- Available engines include two V8s and, for the first time, a diesel option
- New independent rear suspension
- Larger all-around than previous model
- Starts pricey and climbs from there
- Love it/hate it design elements
- Some interior controls and fit/finish don’t live up to its price point
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Why We Picked It
Pros & Cons
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The full-size Chevrolet Tahoe is a completely new beast for 2021, bigger inside and out, with more interior room for passengers and cargo. There’s also a new independent rear suspension, which gives the truck-based SUV a smoother ride. The new suspension also helped give third-row passengers 10 additional inches of legroom and added 10 extra cubic feet of storage space behind
...Read MoreThe full-size Chevrolet Tahoe is a completely new beast for 2021, bigger inside and out, with more interior room for passengers and cargo. There’s also a new independent rear suspension, which gives the truck-based SUV a smoother ride. The new suspension also helped give third-row passengers 10 additional inches of legroom and added 10 extra cubic feet of storage space behind the third row.
The powertrain lineup still comprises the 355-horsepower 5.3-liter and 420 horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engines and offers a new third option: a 3.0-liter six-cylinder Duramax turbo-diesel that matches the larger V8’s 460 pound-feet of torque and gets 24 mpg in city and highway driving combined. Based on testing, it also should easily top 30 mpg on the highway, well above the EPA’s 26 mpg rating. The new Tahoe gets a standard 10-inch touchscreen and a slew of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, front pedestrian braking, a following distance indicator and automatic headlamps.
Read Less- Available engines include two V8s and, for the first time, a diesel option
- New independent rear suspension
- Larger all-around than previous model
- Starts pricey and climbs from there
- Love it/hate it design elements
- Some interior controls and fit/finish don’t live up to its price point
![2021 Land Rover Defender](https://web.archive.org/web/20211004230149/https://thumbor.forbes.com/thumbor/fit-in/960x600/https://www.forbes.com/wheels/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/2021_Land_Rover_Defender_Gallery1.jpg)
Why We Picked It
It’s hard to reinvent a classic. That’s why replacing a line of trucks that traces all the way back to the original Land Rover of 1948–an iconic vehicle in its home market–as well as a vehicle that’s been on a 22-year hiatus in North America, is a heavy lift. Luckily the new Defender delivered with its modern styling cues and classic off-road dominance. Land Rover has enough self-awareness to know that in the U.S. the new Defender will mostly strut around (tinsel) town and not too far off the beaten path, but it’s still on the hook to be a legitimate adventuring ass-kicker.
The 2021 Defender comes in two sizes: a two-door 90 or a longer, four-door 110, mirroring the old models. It can be powered by either a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine or a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that uses a mild hybrid system. The capable SUV has up to 19.7 inches of articulation, a wading depth of 35 inches and a 38-degree approach angle complemented by a 40-degree departure angle. It’s equipped with multiple cameras that offer a 3D perspective of the exterior that enhances situational awareness. A “transparent hood” view lets the driver see the suspension and the wheels while it maneuvers over uneven surfaces, and there’s also a terrain response system with pre-set modes. Legit indeed.
Pros & Cons
- Off-road capability is about as good as one could ask for in a factory rig
- Standout design is thoroughly modern yet but easily recognizable as a Defender
- Smooth on-road performance
- Gas mileage is nothing to write home about
- Top-end models get quite pricey
- Feels tall and heavy in corners
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Why We Picked It
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It’s hard to reinvent a classic. That’s why replacing a line of trucks that traces all the way back to the original Land Rover of 1948–an iconic vehicle in its home market–as well as a vehicle that’s been on a 22-year hiatus in North America, is a heavy lift. Luckily the new Defender delivered with its modern styling cues and classic off-road dominance. Land Rover has
...Read MoreIt’s hard to reinvent a classic. That’s why replacing a line of trucks that traces all the way back to the original Land Rover of 1948–an iconic vehicle in its home market–as well as a vehicle that’s been on a 22-year hiatus in North America, is a heavy lift. Luckily the new Defender delivered with its modern styling cues and classic off-road dominance. Land Rover has enough self-awareness to know that in the U.S. the new Defender will mostly strut around (tinsel) town and not too far off the beaten path, but it’s still on the hook to be a legitimate adventuring ass-kicker.
The 2021 Defender comes in two sizes: a two-door 90 or a longer, four-door 110, mirroring the old models. It can be powered by either a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbocharged engine or a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine that uses a mild hybrid system. The capable SUV has up to 19.7 inches of articulation, a wading depth of 35 inches and a 38-degree approach angle complemented by a 40-degree departure angle. It’s equipped with multiple cameras that offer a 3D perspective of the exterior that enhances situational awareness. A “transparent hood” view lets the driver see the suspension and the wheels while it maneuvers over uneven surfaces, and there’s also a terrain response system with pre-set modes. Legit indeed.
Read Less- Off-road capability is about as good as one could ask for in a factory rig
- Standout design is thoroughly modern yet but easily recognizable as a Defender
- Smooth on-road performance
- Gas mileage is nothing to write home about
- Top-end models get quite pricey
- Feels tall and heavy in corners
Methodology
The nominees and winners were selected by the 2020 Forbes Wheels Car of the Year panel, comprised of four staff editors and six contributors. Our criteria included performance, safety, technology, comfort and convenience, fuel economy, design and functionality. Because each category spans the full spectrum of pricing, we selected vehicles that stand out among their peers. Vehicles eligible for nomination include any car or truck for sale or in production during 2020; some debuted prior to 2020.
Forbes Wheels Car of the Year Panelists
Sam Abuelsamid (contributor) is a principal research analyst at consulting firm Guidehouse Insights (formerly Navigant Research) and is a frequent contributor to Forbes.com, covering innovation in the transportation sector.
Brian Armstead (contributor) is president emeritus of the Washington Automotive Press Association and a North American Car, Truck and Utility of the Year (NACTOY) Juror.
Bill Howard (Forbes Wheels Staff) is editor of Forbes Wheels. He is the past president of the International Motor Press Association and was previously executive editor and contributing editor for Ziff-Davis’ PC Magazine and ExtremeTech.
Alex Kalogiannis (contributor) has been an automotive writer for over 10 years. In addition to bylines at outlets including Gear Patrol, Trucks.com and SlashGear, he was previously the Car section editor at Digital Trends.
Alex Kwanten (Forbes Wheels Staff) has worked in automotive, marine and aviation for over a decade and reported on buying, selling and servicing cars for multiple industry publications, including Automotive News.
Carly Schaffner (Forbes Wheels Staff) has worked in the automotive industry for over a decade in both editorial and communication roles. Before joining Forbes Wheels, she was managing editor of Trucks.com.
Chris Teague (contributor) is a freelance automotive writer focused on new vehicle reviews, industry trends and breaking news, and has an MBA focusing on data analysis that gives him insight into some of the auto industry’s biggest companies.
Lawrence Ulrich (contributor) is an award-winning auto writer, and former chief auto critic for The New York Times, Detroit Free Press and The Drive.
John Voelcker (contributor) was editor of Green Car Reports for nine years. He now is a reporter and analyst covering advanced auto technologies and energy policy, and a North American Car, Truck and Utility of the Year (NACTOY) Juror.
Andrew Wendler (Forbes Staff) grew up immersed in automotive, marine and aviation culture and spent a decade at Car and Driver as a writer and editor before joining Forbes Wheels.