2020 Ford Edge

The Ford Edge is a relatively affordable crossover SUV offering plenty of value for the money. So by how much will the entry-level version set you back? The base-spec model, the Edge SE, has an MSRP of $31,100, the mid-spec Edge SEL is given an MSRP of $34,335 while the ST-Line asks $38,100. At the top of the spectrum, the Titanium has a sticker price matching the ST-Line at $38,100. Those are all excluding Ford Edge's cost of $1,095 for destination and handling, a $645 acquisition fee, as well as any tax, registration, and licensing fees. The Intelligent AWD system upgrade will cost an additional $1,995 for all models.

The Ford Edge isn't nearly as poised on its wheels as rivals like the Mazda CX-9 are, often feeling clumsy compared to more dynamically talented alternatives. Its steering isn't particularly communicative, which limits driver-confidence a bit, but responses to inputs are accurate and it is well-weighted which lends a sense of confidence at any speed. The chassis provides reassuring levels of stability even when thrown through corners with some fervor, and body roll is mitigated adequately even around sharp bends. The brakes provide ample stopping power for the hefty Edge and the pedal is easy to modulate in everyday driving.

In terms of comfort in general, the Edge's well-insulated cabin is its most significant highlight as no engine or road noises permeate, which, along with the Edge's super comfortable seating and abundance of creature comforts, makes the Edge's cabin a very pleasant place to over long stints behind the wheel. The Edge's chassis and suspension are tuned a little on the firm side, but still deliver a plush and sophisticated ride quality. Most road imperfections and undulations are suitably absorbed, though expansive patches of broken road do cause it to feel a little bouncy. The Edge delivers a nicely balanced ride; its handling is nothing impressive, but it is competent, and its ride quality is suitable enough for going on long-distance journeys or just for everyday use.

More than anything, the 2020 Ford Edge offers immense value for money and is one of the most impressive vehicles for sale in the segment. With a relatively well-equipped base model and a top-spec model that could show up some high-end luxury vehicles in terms of standard-fit features, owners of the Edge will certainly be pleased with where their money has gone. The infotainment system is contemporary and one of the most intuitive and user-friendly systems available, and comes standard with full smartphone integration. The standard features list include a ten-way power-adjustable driver's seat and dual-zone automatic climate control as standard in even the base model. Furthermore, Ford's Co-Pilot360 Technology suite of driver-assist features comes standard in every model too. It may not be the most enjoyable crossover SUV to drive or the most comfortable, but it is nicely balanced, reasonably fuel-efficient, and one of the safest. The only flaws that hold the Edge back as a top contender are its dated cabin and many low-grade materials, limited cargo room, and unenthusiastic handling dynamics, but beyond those, it's a modern and highly practical everyday commuter ideal for the average American family.

As the base model for the lineup, the Ford Edge SE still comes relatively well-equipped with features overall, and because of its relatively low price and high value proposition, it's our recommended model for the current model year. With an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen and Ford's SYNC 3 software installed as standard in the SE, along with a ten-way power-adjustable driver's seat and dual-zone automatic climate control, a lot can still be enjoyed from the base-spec SE without having to miss out on much by not opting for the higher-tier models. We would suggest optioning on the AWD system for the added all-weather advantages, however, if you live in a state that seldom sees inclement weather, you can easily save some money without it.

If the dated cabin of the Ford Edge is enough to turn you away, then consider the all-new Ford Escape; fully redesigned for the 2020 model year, the Escape is a modernized compact crossover SUV that's around $5,000 cheaper than the Edge. It's equipped with a 181-hp three-cylinder EcoBoost engine, which it makes better use of, accelerating faster than the Edge while still remaining more fuel-efficient. Moreover, there's an even more powerful engine available as well as a hybridized powertrain on the top-spec Escape trim. With five available trims and a broad spread of equipment, the Escape offers a greater variety in performance and feature specification levels. Although it's a smaller vehicle, the cabin of the Escape is still commodious, and it's a lot more modern than the Edge's, featuring a head-up display as its crowning jewel. Though the Escape may not offer the space that a car like the Edge does either, it is the better all-rounder, with a stronger engine lineup and high levels of specification, all housed in a vastly more contemporary package.

If you require seating for more than five, then the three-row midsize Ford Explorer could be your best bet, offering seating for up to seven passengers. The Explorer is nearly $7,000 more than the Edge SUV though and the price increases considerably with the jump up to each trim level - the top-spec Titanium model comes in at $58,250, but the upgrade includes a vastly more modern interior with more space, higher levels of quality, and more equipment. The Explorer does offer a lot more utility than the Edge though; equipped with one of two powerful EcoBoost engines all boasting outputs upwards of 300 hp, a ten-speed automatic gearbox, and standard rear-wheel-drivetrain, the Explorer can tow a maximum of 5,600 lbs. As the more luxurious vehicle, the Explorer also comes outfitted with a host of high-grade features as standard such as tri-zone automatic climate control. All-in-all, deciding between which vehicle to opt for really comes down to personal requirements; if you need passenger space and impressive towing capacity, the Explorer is a better option.