2019 Ford Edge vs 2020 Ford Expedition

The 2019 Ford Edge underwent a notable exterior update, featuring a new grille, headlights, and lower front fascia, which gave it a sportier look. The rear was also refreshed with new taillights and a larger black panel replacing the red connector, enhancing its athletic appeal across all trims. However, the interior remained largely unchanged from previous models, with a dated feel that relied heavily on plastics. Despite the addition of a new rotary shifter, the cabin struggled to shake off its outdated design, though it offered a range of standard and available features across its trims, from the base SE to the performance-oriented ST.

In contrast, the 2020 Ford Expedition, last redesigned in 2018, maintained a clean and somewhat understated exterior design that aged well. The King Ranch model stood out with its 22-inch aluminum wheels, mesh grille insert, and LED headlights, complemented by exclusive grey-painted lower trim. Inside, the Expedition King Ranch boasted a luxurious cabin with Del Rio leather and King Ranch logos, though it was marred by the presence of hard plastics, especially in lower trims. Despite this, the Expedition offered a spacious and comfortable interior, particularly in the King Ranch and Platinum trims, though the high price point made the use of plastics less acceptable.

The 2019 Ford Edge offered a range of powertrains, with non-ST trims equipped with a 2.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided reliable performance with optional AWD on the SEL and standard on other trims in Canada. The ST trim, however, featured a more powerful 2.7-litre EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, also mated to an eight-speed automatic and standard AWD. The ST impressed with its acceleration and cornering abilities, though it maintained a smooth ride over rough roads. Fuel economy varied, with the base FWD model consuming 10.9 L/100 km in the city and 8.0 on the highway, while the ST averaged 11.8 L/100 km in spirited driving.

The 2020 Ford Expedition came standard with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, offering 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided ample power and a pleasant exhaust note. The Expedition's 4WD system was standard in Canada, with a towing capacity of up to 4,173 kilograms for the standard model. Despite its size, the Expedition handled well in urban environments, thanks to its tight turning radius and adaptive damping suspension, though the ride could be busy on imperfect roads. Fuel consumption was rated at 14.1 L/100 km in the city and 10.6 on the highway, with slightly higher figures for the MAX version.

The 2019 Ford Edge offered a practical interior with useful storage solutions, including a deep cargo bin in the centre console and large in-door pockets. The front seats were comfortable, though the ST's bucket seats were less accommodating for taller drivers. The rear seats provided ample space, with 1,110 litres of cargo space behind them, expandable to 2,078 litres with the rear seats folded. While not as spacious as some three-row SUVs, the Edge compared favourably with competitors like the Nissan Murano and Chevy Blazer.

The 2020 Ford Expedition excelled in its ability to tow, carry cargo, and accommodate passengers. The King Ranch model featured power running boards for easy access, with comfortable heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain's chairs offered first-class comfort, while the third-row seat was genuinely comfortable for adults, thanks to the independent rear suspension. Cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row in the standard model, expandable to 2,962 litres with all seats folded, and even more in the MAX version.

The 2019 Ford Edge's base infotainment system was basic, with a small 4.2-inch non-touchscreen and button controls. It offered essential features like a USB port, WiFi hotspot, and Bluetooth, but felt outdated compared to competitors. The available 8-inch Sync 3 system, standard on higher trims, provided a more user-friendly experience with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, despite its middling graphics.

The 2020 Ford Expedition featured an 8-inch Sync 3 infotainment system, which, while easy to use, felt inadequate for a vehicle of its size and price. The system included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, along with FordPass Connect and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. Additional features included a Bang & Olufsen premium sound system, rear-seat entertainment, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which simplified trailer manoeuvring.

The 2019 Ford Edge came equipped with a rear-view camera, traction control, and a full suite of airbags as standard. It also featured Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, automatic high-beams, and blind-spot monitoring. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Edge received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was rated a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.

The 2020 Ford Expedition's size contributed to its crash safety, with Ford Co-Pilot360 as standard, offering features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Adaptive cruise control was optional. The Expedition's ADAS performed well, though the lane departure warning could be confused with road vibrations. The NHTSA awarded the Expedition five-star ratings in crash tests, though the IIHS had not tested it at the time of review.