2019 Ford Edge vs 2020 Toyota Highlander

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 revamped 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 Despite the addition of a new rotary shifter, the cabin struggled to shake off its outdated design, though it offered a range of standard and available features across its trims, from the base SE to the performance-oriented ST.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 Toyota Highlander boasted a more refined cabin with high-quality fit and finish. The exterior design was marked by trapezoidal themes and new 20-inch alloy wheels on higher trims, though it was considered somewhat bland. Inside, the Highlander excelled with its attention to detail, offering a pleasing colour palette and rich textures, especially in the Limited and Platinum trims. The interior was praised for its comfort and versatility, with features like SofTex leatherette and diamond quilting on the Platinum trim, making it a standout in its class.

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. The ST trim, however, was equipped with a more powerful 2.7-litre EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, exclusively with all-wheel drive. The ST's performance was impressive, with excellent acceleration and cornering abilities, though it maintained a smooth ride over rough roads. Fuel economy for the Edge varied, with the most efficient version consuming 10.9 L/100 km in the city and 8.0 on the highway.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander came with a 3.5-litre V6 engine, offering 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive. The engine provided smooth and brisk acceleration, though the steering was criticized for being loose, and the suspension was considered too soft. The Highlander featured selectable driving modes and torque vectoring on higher trims, enhancing its handling capabilities. Fuel efficiency was commendable, with the FWD model rated at 11.9 L/100 km in the city and 8.3 on the highway, while the AWD version had slightly different figures. The Highlander hybrid offered even better fuel economy, though it was reviewed separately.

The 2019 Ford Edge's interior, while 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, though they were not ideal for taller individuals. The rear seats were spacious, providing ample headroom and legroom, and the cargo space was generous, with 1,110 litres behind the rear seats and 2,078 litres with them folded down. This made the Edge competitive with other midsize crossovers like the Nissan Murano and Chevy Blazer.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander excelled in interior space and versatility, seating up to eight passengers or seven with captain's chairs. The second row offered generous legroom and easy access to the third row, though the latter was best suited for shorter passengers. The Highlander provided ample cargo space, with 453 litres behind the third row, 1,359 litres behind the second, and 2,378 litres with both rows folded. The interior featured numerous storage solutions, including eight cupholders and two dash-integrated shelves, though the wireless charging pad's placement was inconvenient.

The 2019 Ford Edge's base infotainment system was basic, with a small 4.2-inch non-touchscreen and limited functionality. However, the available 8-inch Sync 3 system on higher trims offered a more user-friendly experience with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Despite its intuitive menu layout, the graphics were considered average.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander's infotainment system was criticized for its outdated design and low-resolution screens, even on the 12.3-inch touchscreen in the Platinum trim. The system lacked onboard apps and had a convoluted process for phone connectivity. However, the Highlander redeemed itself with a 10-inch head-up display and a 7-inch instrument cluster display, providing useful information. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a JBL audio system on higher trims.

The 2019 Ford Edge came equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Ford’s Co-Pilot360, which offered automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Edge received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, though its headlights received lacklustre scores.

The 2020 Toyota Highlander featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 as standard, with automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear emergency braking. The Highlander earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was awarded a 2020 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS for its crash test performance and emergency braking capabilities.