2019 Ford Edge vs 2020 Subaru Outback

The 2019 Ford Edge underwent a noticeable facelift, featuring a new grille, headlights, and lower front fascia, which gave it a sportier look. The rear was updated 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 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 modernity. 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 unique styling cues and enhanced features, albeit at a higher price point.

In contrast, the 2020 Subaru Outback focused on incremental improvements, maintaining its handsome profile while enhancing utility, safety, and performance. Built on Subaru’s Global Platform, it boasted a 70% increase in structural rigidity. The exterior changes were subtle, with updated head- and taillights, but the interior saw significant upgrades, including an 11.6-inch touchscreen on most trims. The Outback introduced innovative tech like DriverFocus, which used facial recognition to adjust settings and alert distracted drivers. Available in seven trims, the Outback offered a range of features from the base Convenience with heated seats and keyless entry, to the Premier XT with a turbo engine and luxury touches like Nappa leather. The Outdoor XT trim added performance upgrades and unique styling, appealing to those seeking adventure.

The 2019 Ford Edge offered a range of powertrains, with non-ST trims featuring 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, stood out with its 2.7-litre EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, also mated to an eight-speed automatic and standard AWD. The ST offered impressive acceleration and handling, with a Sport Mode for enhanced performance. Fuel economy varied, with the base FWD model consuming 10.9 L/100 km city and 8.0 highway, while the ST averaged 11.8 L/100 km in spirited driving.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured an upgraded 2.5-litre engine with 182 horsepower, a 7-hp increase over the previous year, and a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine in XT trims producing 260 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a CVT, tuned to mimic a traditional automatic transmission, minimizing the typical CVT drawbacks. Subaru’s symmetrical AWD system provided seamless power delivery and enhanced stability, complemented by the boxer engine's low centre of gravity. The Outback excelled in off-road conditions with 22.1 cm of ground clearance and features like X-Mode and hill-descent control in the Outdoor XT trim. Fuel consumption for the 2.5-litre engine was rated at 9.0 L/100 km city, 7.1 highway, and 8.2 combined.

The 2019 Ford Edge offered a practical interior with ample storage, including a deep centre console bin, USB ports, and available wireless charging. The front seats were comfortable, with the ST trim featuring performance bucket seats, though these were not ideal for taller drivers due to limited adjustability. The rear seats provided generous space, accommodating taller passengers comfortably. Cargo capacity was competitive, with 1,110 litres behind the rear seats and 2,078 litres with them folded, surpassing rivals like the Nissan Murano and Chevy Blazer, though slightly less than the Honda Passport.

The 2020 Subaru Outback embraced the functional benefits of a station wagon, offering 920 litres of cargo space, expandable to 2,144 litres with the rear seats folded. The increase in interior space was attributed to a wider rear wheel area, and the Outback’s design allowed for ample passenger room, even for taller individuals. The low load height and excellent visibility were highlights, though the rear quarters had a notable blind spot. The Outback’s proportions contributed to better handling and reduced rollover risk, making it a practical choice for families and adventurers alike.

The 2019 Ford Edge’s base infotainment system was basic, with a 4.2-inch non-touchscreen and button controls, offering features like a USB port, WiFi hotspot, and Bluetooth. The SEL trim and above featured an 8-inch Sync 3 system, praised for its intuitive layout and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, despite average graphics.

The 2020 Subaru Outback featured a prominent 11.6-inch touchscreen, appealing to tech enthusiasts with its large, clear display and user-friendly interface. However, the system suffered from lag, affecting navigation and other functions, and the camera resolution was subpar. Despite these issues, the system’s potential was evident, and Subaru aimed to address these shortcomings.

The 2019 Ford Edge came standard with a rear-view camera, traction control, and a comprehensive airbag system. Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite included 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, evasive steering assist, and lane-centering. The Edge received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though its headlights were rated poorly.

The 2020 Subaru Outback’s safety features were a mixed bag. While the standard safety suite and AWD system were commendable, the DriverFocus system was problematic, frequently issuing false alerts. Subaru’s EyeSight system, though standard, was prone to deactivation in certain conditions. Despite these issues, the Outback maintained a strong safety reputation, with its engineering and design prioritizing occupant protection.