2020 Honda Pilot vs 2019 Ford Edge

The 2019 Ford Edge underwent a noticeable exterior update, featuring a new grille, headlights, and lower front fascia, along with revamped taillights and a larger black panel replacing the previous red connector. This gave the Edge a sportier look across all trims. However, the interior remained largely unchanged from previous models, with a dated feel reminiscent of the 2010 version, despite the addition of a new infotainment system. The cabin, while functional with features like a rotary shifter, was criticized for its heavy use of plastics, which detracted from its modern appeal. The Edge offered a range of trims, from the base SE with standard features like 18-inch alloy wheels and keyless entry, to the performance-oriented ST with enhancements from Ford Performance, including a blacked-out grille and 20-inch wheels. The ST trim also boasted leather seating and ambient lighting, with options for a dual-panel moonroof and heated seats, though these additions pushed the price significantly higher.

The 2020 Honda Pilot shared the dynamic styling of Honda's lineup, with thin LED headlights and a multi-tiered grille. Its design cleverly masked its size, giving it a sleeker appearance. Inside, the Pilot featured a modern cabin with a semi-digital instrument panel, though it still used some hard plastics, falling short of the more upscale interiors of competitors like the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. The Pilot offered a range of trims, from the value-packed LX with standard AWD and tri-zone climate control, to the luxurious Black Edition with unique black accents and red interior lighting. The EX-L trim added leather upholstery and a power liftgate, while the Touring trim included a panoramic sunroof and advanced tech features. The Pilot's cabin was praised for its spaciousness and comfort, making it a strong contender in the three-row SUV segment.

The 2019 Ford Edge offered a range of powertrains, with non-ST trims equipped with a 2.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, available in front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive on the SEL trim, with AWD standard on other trims in Canada. The ST trim featured a more powerful 2.7-litre EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 engine, producing 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, also mated to an eight-speed automatic and standard AWD. The ST provided impressive acceleration and handling, with a smooth ride over rough roads. Fuel economy for the Edge varied, with the base FWD model consuming 10.9 L/100 km in the city and 8.0 on the highway, while the AWD version increased to 11.4 city and 8.3 highway. The ST trim had higher consumption rates, averaging 12.6 L/100 km city and 9.2 highway.

The 2020 Honda Pilot was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine across all trims, producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, with standard AWD in Canada. The LX, EX, and EX-L trims featured a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the Touring and Black Edition received a 9-speed automatic for smoother acceleration and improved fuel efficiency. The Pilot's V6 provided strong acceleration for everyday driving, though it wasn't the fastest in its class. The ride was tuned for comfort, making it ideal for commutes and road trips, though it lacked sporty handling. The Pilot included an Intelligent Traction Management System with drive modes for various conditions, though the controls were not intuitive. Despite this, the Pilot offered a refined driving experience suitable for family use.

The 2019 Ford Edge's interior, though dated, was practical with ample storage options, including a deep cargo bin in the centre console and large in-door pockets. The Edge ST featured performance-oriented bucket seats with pronounced side bolsters, though they were not ideal for taller drivers due to limited adjustability. The rear seats offered generous space, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. Cargo capacity was a strong point, with 1,110 litres behind the rear seats and 2,078 litres with the seats folded, surpassing competitors like the Nissan Murano and Chevy Blazer, though slightly less than the Honda Passport.

The 2020 Honda Pilot provided a spacious 8-passenger cabin, with optional second-row captain’s chairs on higher trims reducing capacity to seven. The third row was adult-friendly, offering ample head and legroom, with easy access via one-touch fold-down rear seats on EX-L trims and above. The Pilot excelled in cargo space, offering 1,583 litres with the second and third rows folded, outpacing rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Kia Telluride. Higher trims included a power liftgate and hands-free tailgate, enhancing convenience. The Pilot's interior was designed for family use, with numerous storage spaces and features like a conversation mirror and CabinTalk for easy communication with rear passengers.

The 2019 Ford Edge's base infotainment system featured a small 4.2-inch non-touchscreen, operated by buttons, offering basic functionality like a USB port, WiFi hotspot, and Bluetooth. The SEL trim and above offered an 8-inch Sync 3 system, praised for its intuitive menu layout and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, despite average graphics.

The 2020 Honda Pilot came standard with an 8-inch Display Audio touchscreen infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 215-watt, 7-speaker stereo. However, the system's layout was criticized for being confusing, lacking a tuning knob, and relying heavily on touchscreen controls. Higher trims added features like navigation, a rear entertainment system, and a 590-watt, 11-speaker premium audio system. The Touring and Black Edition also included a Wi-Fi hotspot and wireless charging pad.

The 2019 Ford Edge came equipped with a rear-view camera, traction control, and a full set of airbags. It also featured Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and lane-centering. The Edge received a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though its headlights were rated poorly.

The 2020 Honda Pilot included the HondaSensing suite, offering forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Standard safety features also included airbags, child-seat anchors, and traction control. Optional features were parking sensors and blind-spot monitoring. The Pilot earned a five-star NHTSA rating and a Good score from the IIHS, with a Superior rating for crash prevention technology.