2019 Ford Edge vs 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2019 Ford Edge underwent a facelift, featuring a new grille, headlights, and lower front fascia, giving it a sportier look. The rear was updated with new taillights and a larger black panel, enhancing its athletic appearance. However, the interior remained largely unchanged from previous models, feeling dated with heavy reliance on plastics. Despite the modern rotary shifter, the cabin struggled to escape its outdated feel. The Edge offered various trims, with the ST model showcasing performance-oriented features like a blacked-out grille and upgraded exhaust.

In contrast, the 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained its classic design, appealing to a broad audience with its traditional Jeep styling, including a 7-slot grille and trapezoidal fenders. The Grand Cherokee's appearance was versatile, fitting in both rugged trails and upscale settings. Despite its age, the design remained attractive across different demographics. However, the interior, especially in higher-priced models, was criticized for its use of hard plastics, detracting from the premium feel expected at its price point.

The 2019 Ford Edge offered a 2.0-litre EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine in non-ST trims, producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided reliable performance with optional AWD. The ST trim featured a 2.7-litre EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, delivering 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, offering impressive acceleration and handling. Fuel economy varied, with the base model achieving 10.9 L/100 km city and 8.0 highway, while the ST consumed 12.6 city and 9.2 highway.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee came standard with a 3.6-litre V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered a combined fuel economy of 11.3 L/100 km. For those seeking more power, three V8 options were available, including a 707-hp supercharged engine in the Trackhawk model. The Grand Cherokee excelled in off-road capabilities, with multiple 4WD systems and features like the Selec-Terrain traction control. However, its on-road dynamics were mixed, with some suspension issues on uneven surfaces.

The 2019 Ford Edge provided a practical interior with ample storage, including a deep cargo bin and in-door pockets. The ST trim featured performance bucket seats, though they were less accommodating for taller drivers. Rear passengers enjoyed generous space, with 1,110 litres of cargo room behind the seats, expandable to 2,078 litres. This made the Edge competitive with other midsize crossovers, offering more space than some rivals.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered seating for five, with 1,028 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,934 litres. Front seats were heated and power-adjustable, though ventilation was lacking. Rear passengers had adequate comfort, with air vents and USB ports. Interior storage was decent, with thoughtful touches like grocery bag hooks, though some areas lacked space.

The 2019 Ford Edge's base infotainment system was basic, featuring a small 4.2-inch screen. Higher trims offered an 8-inch Sync 3 system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, praised for its intuitive interface despite average graphics.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured the Uconnect system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, navigation, and smartphone integration. While user-friendly, the ride's bounciness sometimes hindered touchscreen use. The system included unique apps like Off-Road Pages, and an optional Alpine audio system, though not as premium as the available Harman Kardon setup.

The 2019 Ford Edge came standard with Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite, including features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. It received a five-star safety rating from NHTSA and was an IIHS Top Safety Pick, though its headlights were rated poorly.

The 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered three ADAS packages, with features like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. Despite these, it received a four-star NHTSA rating and poor IIHS scores for certain crash tests, with headlight ratings varying by trim.