2019 Ford Edge vs 2020 Toyota 4Runner

The 2019 Ford Edge underwent a significant 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 plastic materials. Despite the addition of a new rotary shifter and some modern features, the cabin struggled to shake off its outdated design. 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 elements and enhanced features, albeit at a higher price point.

In contrast, the 2020 Toyota 4Runner maintained its timeless, utilitarian design with tall slab sides, a high beltline, and short overhangs, making it well-suited for off-road adventures. The 4Runner's design was functional, with flared wheel wells for off-road tires and short overhangs for tackling steep terrains. The lineup included various packages like the TRD Off-Road and Limited, each offering distinct features. Our test model, the Limited, focused on comfort with leather upholstery and an 8-inch touchscreen. Despite its rugged DNA, the 4Runner's interior was a mix of utilitarian and modern elements, with plenty of plastic and a seating position designed more for trails than highways.

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 was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, available in front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive on the SEL trim, and standard on others. The ST trim boasted 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 all-wheel drive. The ST impressed with its acceleration and cornering abilities, offering a balanced and precise driving experience. Fuel economy varied, with the base model achieving 10.9 L/100 km in the city and 8.0 on the highway, while the ST consumed 12.6 L/100 km city and 9.2 highway.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner, built on a truck chassis, featured a 4.0-litre V6 engine with a five-speed automatic transmission, producing 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. This engine was designed for durability and off-road capability rather than efficiency, offering a towing capacity of up to 2,268 kilograms. Fuel consumption was higher, with estimates of 14.8 L/100 km in the city and 12.5 on the highway. The 4Runner excelled off-road, with its body-on-frame construction and advanced traction systems like crawl control and Multi-Terrain Select, making it a formidable off-road vehicle. However, on-road performance was less refined, with noticeable body roll and vague steering.

The 2019 Ford Edge's interior, though dated, was practical with ample storage options, including a deep cargo bin and in-door pockets. The front seats were comfortable, but the ST's bucket seats were less accommodating for taller drivers. Rear seats offered generous space, with 1,110 litres of cargo space behind them, expandable to 2,078 litres with the rear seats folded. This made the Edge competitive with other crossovers like the Nissan Murano and Chevy Blazer, offering more space than both.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner prioritized visibility and off-road capability, with a tall seating position and a relatively tight turning radius of 5.6 metres. The interior featured large, easy-to-use controls and an 8-inch touchscreen. The 4Runner offered an optional third row, though it was best suited for short, occasional use due to limited legroom and comfort. The body-on-frame construction contributed to a commanding driving position, but entry and exit could be challenging without the power-retractable running boards.

The 2019 Ford Edge's base infotainment system was basic, with a small 4.2-inch non-touchscreen and limited functionality. Higher trims offered an 8-inch Sync 3 system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, providing a more intuitive experience despite average graphics.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner received a technology update with an 8-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While Toyota's system was straightforward, the onboard navigation was less efficient than smartphone apps. The 4Runner included Bluetooth, a USB port, and subscription services like Sirius XM, but lagged behind competitors in terms of features and usability.

The 2019 Ford Edge came standard with a rear-view camera, traction control, and a full suite of airbags. Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite added features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. The Edge received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though its headlights received lower scores.

The 2020 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, including adaptive cruise control and a pre-collision system. It featured eight airbags and received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with a lower score in the rollover test. The IIHS rated it well in most crash tests, except for a Marginal score in the small overlap front test.