What To Know
- The Highlander’s starting price is slightly higher than the Edge’s, but it offers a more spacious interior, a more powerful engine, and a higher standard safety equipment level.
- The Edge, on the other hand, provides a more refined and stylish interior, a more efficient engine, and a wider range of technology features.
- If you value a stylish and technology-rich interior, a more efficient engine, and a lower starting price, the Edge could be the more appealing option.
Choosing the right SUV can feel like navigating a jungle of options. But if you’re looking for a spacious, comfortable, and reliable ride, the Toyota Highlander vs Ford Edge is a battle worth considering. Both vehicles offer compelling features and cater to different needs, making the decision a bit tricky. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of each SUV, helping you decide which one fits your lifestyle best.
Performance and Handling: A Tale of Two Engines
When it comes to performance, the Highlander and Edge offer distinct approaches. The Highlander boasts a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque, providing ample power for both city driving and highway cruising. Its smooth and refined power delivery makes it a comfortable companion for long journeys.
The Edge, on the other hand, offers a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. While it may not be as powerful as the Highlander’s V6, the Edge compensates with a more responsive and engaging driving experience. Its smaller engine also contributes to better fuel economy, making it a more efficient choice for daily commutes.
Both SUVs offer all-wheel-drive (AWD) options, providing enhanced traction and stability in challenging weather conditions. However, the Highlander’s standard AWD system is more capable than the Edge’s optional AWD, making it a better choice for those who frequently encounter snow or rough terrain.
Interior Comfort and Space: A Room for Everyone
Both the Highlander and Edge offer comfortable and spacious interiors, but their strengths lie in different areas. The Highlander excels in passenger space, boasting three rows of seats that can comfortably accommodate up to eight passengers. Its spacious cabin also provides ample cargo space, making it ideal for families with kids or frequent travelers.
The Edge, while offering a comfortable and stylish interior, prioritizes a more driver-focused experience. Its two-row configuration provides ample space for five passengers, but its cargo space is slightly smaller than the Highlander’s. However, the Edge’s interior design is more modern and upscale, with high-quality materials and a user-friendly layout.
Technology and Safety: A Feature-Rich Experience
Both the Highlander and Edge come equipped with advanced technology features designed to enhance safety, convenience, and entertainment. The Highlander offers a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also includes Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
The Edge, not to be outdone, boasts a standard 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Ford’s SYNC 4 system. Its technology features include a head-up display, wireless charging, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. Ford Co-Pilot360 is its standard safety suite, offering features like blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist.
Fuel Efficiency: A Balancing Act
The Highlander and Edge offer different levels of fuel efficiency, depending on their engine and drivetrain options. The Highlander, with its V6 engine, achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined.
The Edge, with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine, boasts slightly better fuel economy, achieving an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined. While the Edge offers a slight edge in fuel efficiency, the Highlander’s larger engine and greater towing capacity might outweigh this advantage for some buyers.
Pricing and Value: Finding the Best Deal
The Toyota Highlander and Ford Edge fall into a similar price range, but their starting prices and options can vary significantly. The Highlander’s starting price is slightly higher than the Edge’s, but it offers a more spacious interior, a more powerful engine, and a higher standard safety equipment level. The Edge, on the other hand, provides a more refined and stylish interior, a more efficient engine, and a wider range of technology features.
Ultimately, the best value for money depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize space, power, and safety, the Highlander might be the better choice. If you value a stylish and technology-rich interior, a more efficient engine, and a lower starting price, the Edge could be the more appealing option.
The Verdict: A Choice Based on Your Needs
Choosing between the Toyota Highlander and Ford Edge is a matter of personal preference and priorities. The Highlander excels in spaciousness, power, and safety, making it an excellent choice for families or those who frequently haul cargo. The Edge, on the other hand, offers a more stylish and refined interior, a more efficient engine, and a wider range of technology features, making it a better choice for individuals or smaller families who prioritize a more driver-focused experience.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Highlander and Edge are excellent choices, it’s worth considering other SUVs in the same segment. The Honda Pilot, the Subaru Ascent, and the Mazda CX-9 are all worthy contenders that offer unique strengths and features.
Popular Questions
Q: Which SUV has more cargo space?
A: The Toyota Highlander offers more cargo space than the Ford Edge, especially with the third row folded down.
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: The Toyota Highlander’s standard AWD system and higher ground clearance make it more capable for off-roading than the Ford Edge.
Q: Which SUV has a more comfortable ride?
A: Both SUVs offer comfortable rides, but the Highlander’s larger size and more powerful engine provide a smoother and more luxurious experience.
Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Ford Edge offers slightly better fuel economy than the Toyota Highlander, thanks to its smaller turbocharged engine.
Q: Which SUV is better for families?
A: The Toyota Highlander‘s three-row seating and ample cargo space make it a better choice for families, while the Ford Edge is more suitable for smaller families or individuals.
Ultimately, the best SUV for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. By carefully considering the features, strengths, and weaknesses of each vehicle, you can make an informed decision that will lead you to the perfect SUV for your lifestyle.
