2021 Toyota 4Runner vs 2020 Ford Edge

The 2020 Ford Edge, introduced initially in 2006, was based on the Ford Fusion sedan platform, offering a car-like ride and ample cabin space. By 2019, the Edge received a styling update, maintaining its angular headlights and trapezoidal grille, reminiscent of the Fusion. Despite these updates, the interior showed signs of aging, 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 a range of features from heated seats to advanced infotainment systems.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner, last redesigned over a decade ago, retained its rugged, utilitarian design. While not conventionally attractive, its two-box body and flared fenders exuded timeless styling and utility. The 4Runner's interior was characterized by hard plastics and a straightforward dashboard with large knobs and buttons. Despite its age, the 4Runner's design was appreciated for its durability and simplicity, appealing to those seeking a reliable, no-frills SUV.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided solid low-end acceleration, though it struggled at higher speeds. The Edge's suspension was designed to handle rough roads, offering a refined and engaging driving experience. The performance-oriented Edge ST featured a 2.7-litre twin-turbo EcoBoost V6, delivering 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, with a sport mode enhancing throttle response and transmission mapping.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner was equipped with a 4.0-litre V6 engine, generating 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. Its five-speed automatic transmission powered the rear axle, with part-time 4WD available. The 4Runner excelled off-road, thanks to features like A-Trac, a locking rear differential, and Multi-Terrain Select. However, on pavement, it felt slow and clunky, with heavy steering and brakes. Its truck-like driving characteristics were part of its charm, though fuel efficiency was a concern, averaging 14.0 L/100 km during testing.

The 2020 Ford Edge offered a spacious cabin with a commanding view of the road. Its two-row seating provided ample head- and legroom, with 1,110 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 2,078 litres with the rear seats folded. The SEL and Titanium trims featured a hands-free power liftgate, enhancing convenience.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner sat high off the ground, offering comfortable seating with good legroom and visibility. Its cargo space measured up to 1,337 litres behind the back seat and 2,540 litres with the rear seat folded. The 4Runner's back bumper served as a practical seating area, and its big roof rack provided additional storage for adventures.

The 2020 Ford Edge featured the SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It included two smart-charging USB ports and a rearview camera, with a semi-digital instrument panel available on higher trims.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner's entry-level Trail grade offered basic technology, including an 8-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It also featured a windshield wiper de-icer and a 120-volt AC power outlet. Higher trims added a dynamic navigation system and upgraded audio.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including Ford Co-Pilot360, which offered automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. It received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner included Toyota Safety Sense P, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane departure warning. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring. The 4Runner received a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a "Good" roof crush strength rating from the IIHS, though its frontal-impact protection ratings were less favourable.