Ford Edge vs Toyota Highlander: Which Midsize SUV is Right for You?
Introduction: Why Compare the Ford Edge and Toyota Highlander?
When it comes to midsize SUVs two names that consistently stand out are the Ford Edge and the Toyota Highlander. Both of these vehicles appeal to families and individuals alike due to their spacious interiors strong safety records and a range of features that make daily driving and long road trips equally comfortable. But how do you decide between these two models? Let's explore the details to find out which SUV may be the better fit for your needs.
Exterior Design and Styling
Overall Design Language
Both the Ford Edge and Toyota Highlander have evolved over the years to offer stylish looks that cater to different tastes. While the Highlander leans towards a sleeker more refined look the Edge takes on a sportier stance giving buyers options depending on their style preferences.
Ford Edge Exterior Highlights
- Sporty front grille with aggressive styling
- Sleek LED headlights for a modern touch
- Unique color options for a bold appearance
Toyota Highlander Exterior Highlights
- Sleek chrome accents around the grille
- Streamlined body design that emphasizes elegance
- Higher ground clearance for off-road capability
Pros and Cons in Design
Ford Edge Drawbacks: While the Edge looks sporty it may lack some of the elegance and high-end feel that buyers in this segment might want especially compared to the Highlander.
Toyota Highlander Drawbacks: Some may feel that the Highlander’s design is too conservative and lacks the “edge” that comes with a bolder design like Ford’s.
Performance and Engine Options
Engine Choices
When it comes to engines both Ford and Toyota offer a range of options to suit various driving styles and fuel efficiency preferences.
Ford Edge Engine Options
- 2.0L EcoBoost inline-4: Delivers 250 horsepower with decent fuel economy
- 2.7L V6 EcoBoost: For those who want more power this engine offers 335 horsepower and a spirited drive
Toyota Highlander Engine Options
- 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid: Offers a more fuel-efficient option with around 36 mpg combined
- 3.5L V6: This option provides 295 horsepower for a balanced drive between power and efficiency
Fuel Efficiency
- Ford Edge: Averages about 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway for the base engine option
- Toyota Highlander: The hybrid option shines here with an average of 36 mpg combined making it a great choice for fuel-conscious drivers
Pros and Cons in Performance
Ford Edge Drawbacks: The Ford Edge’s V6 option is powerful but it sacrifices fuel economy which may be a concern for some buyers.
Toyota Highlander Drawbacks: The Highlander’s power output on the 4-cylinder hybrid may feel underwhelming for drivers who prioritize performance over fuel savings.
Interior Comfort and Space
Interior Layout
When it comes to space and comfort both vehicles offer roomy interiors but their layouts and seating configurations differ.
Ford Edge Interior Highlights
- Two-row seating that comfortably seats five adults
- Ample cargo space of 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats
- Modern infotainment system with SYNC 4 and 12-inch touchscreen
Toyota Highlander Interior Highlights
- Three-row seating with a capacity of up to eight passengers
- Slightly less cargo space behind the third row but more overall storage options
- Toyota's Entune infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen and available upgrades
Pros and Cons of Interior Space
Ford Edge Drawbacks: The two-row layout may feel limiting for those who need more seats for a larger family.
Toyota Highlander Drawbacks: The third row in the Highlander can be a bit cramped especially for adults on long trips but works well for children.
Technology and Infotainment Features
Infotainment Systems
Both SUVs are equipped with intuitive and user-friendly infotainment systems that support smartphone integration and other advanced features.
Ford Edge Technology
- SYNC 4 with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard
- Available Bang & Olufsen sound system for audiophiles
- Wi-Fi hotspot capability for passengers
Toyota Highlander Technology
- Entune 3.0 system with navigation and app integration
- Optional JBL premium audio system for a rich listening experience
- Available rear-seat entertainment for families
Pros and Cons of Technology
Ford Edge Drawbacks: While SYNC 4 is user-friendly it may feel slightly less polished than Toyota’s Entune interface.
Toyota Highlander Drawbacks: Some users report that Entune 3.0 feels slightly dated compared to more modern systems but it's still very functional.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety Ratings and Features
Safety is a priority in both the Ford Edge and Toyota Highlander with both SUVs receiving high marks in crash tests.
Ford Edge Safety Highlights
- Standard Ford Co-Pilot360 which includes features like pre-collision assist lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring
- Received a 5-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Toyota Highlander Safety Highlights
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ which comes standard with adaptive cruise control lane departure alert and automatic high beams
- Also received top ratings from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
Pros and Cons in Safety
Ford Edge Drawbacks: While Ford Co-Pilot360 is robust it lacks some advanced features that come standard in Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+.
Toyota Highlander Drawbacks: Some users may find the Toyota Safety Sense system too sensitive especially when it comes to lane departure warnings.
Pricing and Value
Base Pricing and Trims
When it comes to cost both SUVs have different starting points based on their base trims and top-of-the-line features.
Ford Edge Pricing
- Starting price: Around $37,000
- Available in trims like SE SEL ST-Line and Titanium
Toyota Highlander Pricing
- Starting price: Around $36,000
- Trims include L LE XLE and Limited along with hybrid options
Pros and Cons in Pricing
Ford Edge Drawbacks: The Edge can get pricey quickly when you move up the trim levels which may not offer as much value as Toyota's comparable options.
Toyota Highlander Drawbacks: Although Toyota offers a hybrid model the starting price of these options can be higher than some buyers are willing to pay.
Owner Reviews and Testimonials
What Real Drivers Say
To get a better feel for what it's like to drive these SUVs we gathered feedback from actual owners including Alex Collantes a dedicated Ford Edge owner and a Toyota Highlander driver.
Alex Collantes on Ford Edge
"Driving the Ford Edge has been a great experience for me. The performance on the V6 engine is incredible and it feels so smooth on highways. Plus the design always gets compliments. My only complaint is the fuel economy. It’s not the best for daily commuting in the city."
Toyota Highlander Driver
"I love my Highlander especially the hybrid model because it's so fuel-efficient. It’s great for family trips and the safety features make me feel secure on the road. But the third row isn’t that spacious so it's not the best for long rides with adults."
Final Verdict: Which SUV Should You Choose?
Ford Edge: Best For
- Those who prioritize sporty design and performance
- Buyers looking for advanced infotainment with larger touchscreens
- Smaller families or those who don’t need a third row
Toyota Highlander: Best For
- Larger families who need three rows of seating
- Buyers focused on fuel efficiency especially with the hybrid model
- Those seeking top-notch safety features and high resale value
Pros and Cons Summary
- Ford Edge: Strong on design and performance but less fuel-efficient
- Toyota Highlander: Great fuel economy and family-friendly but limited third-row comfort
Conclusion: Making Your Choice
When deciding between the Ford Edge and Toyota Highlander consider what matters most to you in an SUV. The Edge is ideal for those who want a sporty two-row SUV with a modern tech interface while the Highlander caters more to families who prioritize space and fuel efficiency especially with the hybrid model. Both have strong safety scores and a loyal fanbase making either a solid choice for today’s SUV buyer.