2020 Mazda CX-5 vs 2020 Ford Edge

The 2020 Ford Edge, introduced in 2006, was based on the Ford Fusion sedan platform, offering a car-like ride and spacious cabin. By 2015, the second generation arrived, with a styling update in 2019 that carried over to 2020. Despite its fresh look, the Edge's design lagged behind competitors like Honda and Toyota, who frequently updated their models. The Edge's exterior resembled a crossover version of the Fusion, featuring angular headlights and a large grille. Inside, the layout showed its age, with awkwardly arranged controls and a mix of soft-touch materials and hard plastics. The Edge was available in SE, SEL, Titanium, and ST trims, each offering various features, from the basic SYNC 3 infotainment system to the performance-oriented ST with a powerful engine.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 aimed to deliver a premium experience with captivating style and substance. It featured more standard equipment, improved cabin aesthetics, and reduced noise and vibration. The CX-5's design, rooted in Mazda's "Kodo" styling, remained appealing and upscale. Inside, the Signature trim boasted Nappa leather, real wood, and a luxurious feel, though the Caturra Brown leather lacked contrast. The CX-5's interior was stylish, but its cramped space compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 was a drawback. Mazda focused on upscale features to offset this, offering heated seats, dual-zone climate control, and more in higher trims.

The 2020 Ford Edge came with a standard 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. It offered front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine provided solid low-end acceleration, though it struggled at higher speeds. The Edge's suspension handled rough roads well, offering a refined and engaging drive. The sporty Edge ST variant featured a 2.7-litre twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, delivering 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque with standard AWD. The ST excelled in performance, with heavy steering and excellent cornering, enhanced by a Sport mode and available performance brake package.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 offered a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque in GX, GS, and GT trims, using a six-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with optional AWD. The GT Turbo and Signature trims featured a turbocharged engine, producing 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium fuel. The turbo engine provided strong acceleration despite the CX-5's weight, though it was less efficient. The CX-5's G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced driving engagement, but excessive body motions affected its handling. The steering and brakes were responsive, making it enjoyable in typical driving situations.

The 2020 Ford Edge excelled in cabin layout, offering a commanding road view and ample storage. The spacious second row provided plenty of head- and legroom, with no need to adjust front seats for comfort. The Edge offered 1,110 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 2,078 litres with the seats folded. This was more than a Jeep Grand Cherokee but slightly less than a Honda Passport. Higher trims featured a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 focused on an upscale cabin with stylish design and quality materials. Heated front seats were standard, with higher trims adding features like a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated steering wheel, and ventilated front seats. The Signature trim offered Nappa leather and wood trim. Despite its style, the CX-5's interior was cramped compared to competitors, with limited rear legroom. Cargo space measured 875 litres, expanding to 1,687 litres with the rear seats folded. A power liftgate was available on higher trims.

The 2020 Ford Edge featured the SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, offering easy navigation with icons for audio, phone, and settings. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, allowing smartphone integration without extra cost. The Edge included two smart-charging USB ports and a rearview camera. A semi-digital instrument panel was available on higher trims.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 used the Mazda Connect infotainment system, similar to luxury brands. It featured a 7-inch touchscreen, usable only when stationary, with Bluetooth, HD Radio, and internet radio apps. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. Higher trims added SiriusXM, a Bose sound system, and navigation. The system required acclimation, with controls on the centre console and steering wheel. Voice recognition was limited, and a new version was expected in 2021.

The 2020 Ford Edge included front and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suite was standard, offering automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The SEL trim offered an upgraded Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package with adaptive cruise control and lane centring. The Edge received a "Top Safety Pick" from IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured standard ADAS, including automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keep assist. LED headlights and rain-sensing wipers were standard, with adaptive headlights on higher trims. The CX-5 earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS and a five-star NHTSA rating, excelling in crash tests.