2021 Volvo XC90 vs 2020 Ford Edge

The 2020 Ford Edge, introduced initially in 2006, was built on the same platform as the Ford Fusion sedan, 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. However, the interior showed signs of aging, with a layout unchanged since 2015, despite minor updates. The cabin quality was decent, with soft-touch materials and solid fit-and-finish, though marred by the extensive use of hard plastics. The Edge was available in SE, SEL, Titanium, and ST trims, each offering a range of features from the SYNC 3 infotainment system to driver assistance features under the Ford Co-Pilot360 banner.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a successful design evolution for Volvo, maintaining its traditional styling with a boxy profile and blunt front end, yet adding character with softer lines and distinctive LED headlights. The Inscription trim was the most luxurious, while the R-Design offered a sportier look. Built on Volvo's Scalable Product Architecture, the XC90 shared its platform with other Volvo models. Inside, the XC90 embraced Swedish minimalism, with thoughtfully arranged, high-quality materials. The interior featured matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery, creating a restrained yet elegant atmosphere. The Orrefors crystal shifter added a touch of luxury, albeit slightly out of place in the minimalist setting.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered solid low-end acceleration, though it struggled at higher speeds. The Edge ST variant featured a 2.7-litre twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, with standard all-wheel drive. The ST provided a more engaging driving experience, with heavy steering and excellent cornering capabilities, enhanced by a Sport mode and an available ST Performance Brake Package.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 engine was turbocharged, producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The T6 engine added supercharging, increasing output to 316 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined the T6 engine with electric assist, achieving 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque. While the XC90 provided ample power, the small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' six-cylinder or V8 engines. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, with an optional air-suspension system and a quiet cabin, though it wasn't tuned for sporty handling. It also offered a respectable towing capacity of 2,250 kilograms.

The 2020 Ford Edge boasted a spacious cabin layout, providing a commanding view of the road and ample storage compartments. The second-row seats offered generous head- and legroom, ensuring comfort without needing to adjust the front seats. While it lacked a third row, the Edge provided 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 foot-activated power rear liftgate.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with average headroom and legroom for the segment. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. An optional power sunroof and standard four-zone climate control enhanced the interior's spacious feel. The Inscription trim offered 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with massage, though storage space was limited. Cargo space was 317 litres with all seats in place, 965 litres with the rear seats folded, and 1,815 litres with the second and third rows folded. A hands-free power tailgate was standard.

The 2020 Ford Edge featured the SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as standard. The system was user-friendly, with a row of icons for easy navigation. The Edge also included two smart-charging USB ports and a rearview camera, with a semi-digital instrument panel available on higher trims.

The 2021 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system featured a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was intuitive, though the text and typeface made reading menus difficult while driving. The XC90 also offered a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system and a head-up display. However, the wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and only second-row USB-C ports were available.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including front and side-impact airbags, AdvanceTrac traction control, and the Ford Co-Pilot360 system. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control and active lane centring. The Edge received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention tech. The NHTSA awarded the XC90 a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, driver-attention monitor, and adaptive cruise control.