2027 Ford Explorer vs 2027 GMC Yukon: Which 3-Row SUV Is Right for You?
The 2027 Ford Explorer returns 24 MPG combined, while the 2027 GMC Yukon manages just 17 combined. That 7-MPG gap is one of the biggest separators in the full-size family SUV segment. This page breaks down every key category side by side, with Explorer inventory at Koons Ford in Annapolis.
The Short Answer
The Explorer wins for families who prioritize fuel economy, a car-like driving experience, and a five-trim lineup that covers everything from a practical daily driver to the off-road-tuned Tremor. The Yukon wins for buyers who need a truck-based platform with genuinely massive cargo space, 8-passenger seating, and a tow rating of 8,400 lbs. These two vehicles serve different missions, and the right choice depends almost entirely on what you haul and how often you fill the tank.
2027 Ford Explorer trim details
Specs Head-to-Head
| Specification | 2027 Ford Explorer | 2027 GMC Yukon |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (standard) | 2.3L EcoBoost Turbo I-4 | 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 355 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 383 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| EPA MPG (city/hwy/combined) | 20 / 27 / 24 | 15 / 20 / 17 |
| Seating | 7 | 8 |
| Cargo (behind 3rd row) | 16.3 cu ft | 25.5 cu ft |
| Max cargo | 85.8 cu ft | 122.8 cu ft |
| Towing | 5,000 lbs | 8,400 lbs |
| Length | 198.7 in | 210.1 in |
| Height | 69.6 in | 76.5 in |
| Ground clearance | 7.6 in (base) | 7.8 in |
| Drivetrain | RWD standard, AWD available | RWD standard, 4WD available |
| Basic warranty | 3 yr / 36,000 mi | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
| Powertrain warranty | 5 yr / 60,000 mi | 5 yr / 60,000 mi |
EPA fuel economy ratings for both models
Performance and Powertrain
The Explorer's 2.3L EcoBoost turbo four-cylinder produces 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic. Step up to the ST or add the optional 3.0L twin-turbo V6 on the Tremor or Platinum, and output climbs significantly. The Explorer's unibody construction keeps the center of gravity low, which translates to a responsive, car-influenced driving character that stands apart from traditional SUVs.
The Yukon's 5.3L V8 produces 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. That engine advantage shows in towing, where the Yukon reaches 8,400 lbs against the Explorer's 5,000 lbs. The Yukon's body-on-frame architecture gives it a more truck-like feel on the road. An optional 6.2L V8 and a Duramax 3.0L turbo-diesel are also available on the Yukon for buyers who want even more pulling power.
The fuel economy difference is sharp. The Explorer's 24 MPG combined outpaces the Yukon's 17 MPG combined by a margin that adds up quickly over a year of family driving.
Interior, Space, and Cargo
The Yukon carries up to 8 passengers and offers 25.5 cu ft behind the third row, 72.5 cu ft behind the second row, and 122.8 cu ft of maximum cargo space. Its body-on-frame platform creates a cabin that is notably taller (76.5 in) and longer (210.1 in) than the Explorer.
The Explorer seats 7 and delivers 16.3 cu ft behind the third row and 85.8 cu ft of maximum cargo. For most family hauls, that is sufficient space. The Explorer's lower roofline (69.6 in) and 198.7-inch length make it noticeably easier to park and maneuver in tighter spaces around Annapolis and its surrounding communities.
Third-row legroom in the Explorer measures 31.8 inches, while second-row legroom reaches 37.5 inches. The Explorer Platinum trim's optional moonroof trades some headroom for a more open feel, so taller third-row passengers should spec accordingly.
Technology and Safety
Both vehicles carry strong tech suites. The Explorer leads with a 13.2-inch center touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, native Google Maps navigation, Google Assistant voice control, a 5G modem with a Wi-Fi hotspot serving up to 10 devices, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A B&O Bang & Olufsen audio system is available in 10-speaker and 14-speaker 980-watt configurations. BlueCruise hands-free highway driving assist is available on the ST-Line and above.
The Yukon counters with a 16.8-inch touchscreen that edges the Explorer on screen real estate, an 11-inch driver information center, a Bose 10-speaker audio system, HD Surround Vision, and an available Super Cruise hands-free driver assistance system on Denali, AT4 Ultimate, and Denali Ultimate trims.
On the safety side, the Explorer's standard Ford Co-Pilot360 suite includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane centering, intersection collision mitigation, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic warning with automatic braking. The Explorer's standard 360-degree camera system is included at the ST-Line trim level and above.
The Yukon's standard safety list includes enhanced automatic emergency braking, blind-spot alert, lane departure warning, rear-view camera, HD Surround Vision, pedestrian detection, and a Safety Alert Seat. Both vehicles provide thorough standard coverage, though the Explorer's lane centering system goes a step further than the Yukon's lane departure warning.
Ford Co-Pilot360 driver-assist technology
Value and Ownership
Both vehicles carry identical warranties: 3 years / 36,000 miles basic coverage and 5 years / 60,000 miles on the powertrain. Neither edges the other on paper here.
Where the Explorer creates real long-term value is fuel economy. At 24 MPG combined versus the Yukon's 17, the difference is meaningful for any family that drives regularly through Annapolis, across the Bay Bridge, or on longer trips up to Baltimore or Washington. The Explorer also enters the segment at a significantly lower trim tier relative to the Yukon, giving buyers access to a well-equipped three-row SUV without moving into the full-size, truck-based price band.
The Explorer offers seven exterior colors (Avalanche Gray, Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat, Agate Black Metallic, Star White Metallic Tri-Coat, Carbonized Gray Metallic, Vapor Blue Metallic, and Marsh Gray) and five trims (Active, ST-Line, Tremor, ST, Platinum). The Yukon offers five trims (Elevation, AT4, AT4 Ultimate, Denali, Denali Ultimate) and seven colors.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2027 Ford Explorer if:
You want a three-row family SUV with strong fuel economy (24 MPG combined), a 5-trim lineup that includes the off-road-ready Tremor, best-in-class technology integration with native Google services, and a more manageable footprint for everyday driving and parking. The Explorer is the right fit for most Maryland families who do not regularly tow heavy loads.
Choose the 2027 GMC Yukon if:
You routinely tow between 5,000 and 8,400 lbs, need 8-passenger capacity, or require the outright cargo volume that only a full-size, body-on-frame platform can deliver. The Yukon is a purpose-built workhorse, and buyers who use every inch of its capability will find the tradeoffs in fuel economy and size worthwhile.
For the majority of buyers around Annapolis shopping a three-row family SUV, the Explorer's blend of efficiency, technology, and trim variety makes it the more practical everyday choice.
See the 2027 Explorer at Koons Ford in Annapolis
Koons Ford has 2027 Explorer inventory available now across Active, ST-Line, Tremor, ST, and Platinum trims. Come in to compare them in person, take one for a drive on the roads you use every day, and find the trim that fits your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 2027 Ford Explorer get better gas mileage than the 2027 GMC Yukon?
Yes. The 2027 Explorer returns 24 MPG combined, compared to 17 MPG combined for the Yukon. That 7-MPG difference is one of the most significant efficiency gaps in the three-row SUV segment.
Which has more cargo space: the 2027 Explorer or the 2027 Yukon?
The Yukon carries more cargo. Its maximum cargo volume reaches 122.8 cu ft against the Explorer's 85.8 cu ft. Behind the third row, the Yukon offers 25.5 cu ft to the Explorer's 16.3 cu ft.
Can the 2027 Ford Explorer tow as much as the Yukon?
No. The Explorer tows up to 5,000 lbs, while the Yukon reaches 8,400 lbs when properly equipped. Buyers who regularly pull a boat, camper, or trailer over 5,000 lbs should lean toward the Yukon.
Does the 2027 Explorer have hands-free driving assist?
Yes. BlueCruise hands-free highway driving assist is available on the Explorer ST-Line trim and above. The Yukon offers Super Cruise on Denali, AT4 Ultimate, and Denali Ultimate trims.
How many trims does the 2027 Ford Explorer offer?
The 2027 Explorer offers five trims: Active, ST-Line, Tremor, ST, and Platinum. The Tremor adds standard AWD and increased ground clearance for buyers who want off-road capability without moving to a full-size truck-based platform.
Where can I test drive the 2027 Ford Explorer near Annapolis?
Koons Ford in Annapolis carries 2027 Explorer inventory across all trims. Browse current inventory or contact the dealership to find available units and schedule a test drive.