2019 Honda Pilot vs 2019 Ford Edge

The Edge was a key vehicle in the evolution of the family SUV market when Ford first introduced it for the 2007 model year. Back then, automakers were experimenting with just what a “crossover” could constitute—look at the Pontiac Aztec and first-generation Chrysler Pacifica if you disagree. But with the Edge, the midsize, two-row SUV template started to take shape.

Ford offers the 2019 Edge with an ST trim, grafting performance onto the utilitarian Edge blueprint. But that begs a question—can a vehicle still be good at family hauling and commuting while also delivering speed and performance?

The 3-row crossover is the king of family vehicles. Sure, minivans remain a popular choice for large families, but there has been a pendulum swing from the days of blocky old Dodge Caravans to now. Having one or two children does not immediately necessitate a minivan, and there are plenty of useful, capable, and more nimble SUVs from which to choose.

The 2019 Honda Pilot stands as one of the cornerstones of this 3-row SUV market. It’s large, versatile, and designed specifically with families in mind. It may not have the sliding doors or built-in vacuum of the Honda Odyssey, but for active families, a vehicle like this truly rivals a minivan in actual usability.

The Pilot joined the SUV market in the early 2000s, at the height of the SUV craze and in the waning days of the minivan’s rule. With plenty of cabin space, moderate ability to get off the beaten trail, and V6 power, the Pilot was perfectly positioned for rising fuel prices later in the decade. As many consumers ditched their traditional truck-based SUVs to save on fuel, the Pilot only grew in popularity.

The Pilot is now in its third generation, having received a mild refresh for 2019 that includes slightly updated front and rear styling. It also receives an updated infotainment system and, more importantly, it brings the Honda Sensing suite of driver-assistance features as standard equipment.