2019 Ford Edge vs 2020 Jeep Wrangler

The 2019 Ford Edge underwent a noticeable exterior update, featuring a new grille, headlights, and a redesigned lower front fascia. The rear of the vehicle also saw changes, with new taillights and a larger black panel replacing the previous red connector, giving the Edge a sportier look across all trims. Despite these exterior enhancements, the interior remained largely unchanged from previous models, retaining a dated feel reminiscent of earlier versions. The cabin, while functional with features like a new rotary shifter, was criticized for its heavy use of plastics, particularly around the touchscreen area. The Edge offered a range of trims, from the base SE with standard features like 18-inch alloy wheels and keyless entry, to the performance-oriented ST, which included unique styling elements and performance upgrades. The ST trim, while offering a more dynamic driving experience, came at a higher price point, making the SEL trim a more balanced choice for many buyers.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler was instantly recognizable with its iconic circular headlights, seven-slat grille, and boxy design. Its industrial look was further emphasized by exposed hinges and bolts, and the ability to fold down the windshield and remove the doors. The Wrangler Unlimited, with its four-door configuration, was particularly popular, offering a more enclosed "recreational utility vehicle" feel. Inside, Jeep maintained a retro aesthetic with circular vents and gauges, focusing on utility over luxury. The Wrangler Unlimited came in various trims, from the basic Sport with manual windows and locks, to the upscale Sahara and off-road-ready Rubicon. Special editions like the Willys and Black and Tan added unique styling and functional upgrades. Despite its rugged nature, the Wrangler offered options for added comfort and technology, making it a versatile choice for both off-road adventures and daily driving.

The 2019 Ford Edge offered a range of engine options, with non-ST trims featuring a 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, with AWD adding $1,995 to the cost. The performance-focused ST trim boasted a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, exclusively paired with AWD. The ST provided impressive acceleration and handling, particularly in Sport Mode, while maintaining a comfortable ride over rough roads. Fuel economy for the Edge varied, with the base 2.0-liter FWD model achieving 22 mpg city, 29 highway, and 25 combined, while the ST returned 19/26/21 mpg.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler offered a variety of engine choices, starting with a 3.6-liter V6 producing 285 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, available with a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic transmission. A turbocharged 4-cylinder engine was also available, generating 270 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. New for 2020 was a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel engine, offering 260 horsepower and a substantial 442 pound-feet of torque, providing excellent low-speed performance and highway overtaking capability. The diesel engine's fuel economy was rated at 22 mpg city, 29 highway, and 25 combined, outperforming the gas-powered versions. Despite its off-road prowess, the Wrangler's on-road experience was less refined, with noticeable road noise and a rough ride compared to car-based SUVs. However, its off-road capabilities, including locking differentials and a disconnecting sway bar, made it a standout choice for adventurous drivers.

The 2019 Ford Edge's interior, though dated, was practical, offering ample storage with a deep center console bin, USB ports, and available wireless charging. The front seats were comfortable, but the ST trim's bucket seats, designed for performance, were not ideal for taller individuals due to limited adjustability. The rear seats provided generous space, accommodating taller passengers with ease. Cargo capacity was a strong point, with 39 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 73.4 cubic feet with the seats folded, surpassing competitors like the Nissan Murano and Chevy Blazer, though slightly less than the Honda Passport.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, with its four-door configuration, offered versatility and a unique open-air experience. The doors and windshield could be removed, and the roof was available in various configurations, including a soft top, hardtop, and the Sky One-Touch roof. Cargo space was limited compared to less capable SUVs, with 72 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded. Despite its rugged design, the Wrangler provided a range of options for customization and comfort, appealing to those seeking both adventure and practicality.

The 2019 Ford Edge's base infotainment system featured a small 4.2-inch non-touchscreen, offering basic functionality like USB connectivity, WiFi hotspot, and Bluetooth. Higher trims, such as the SEL, Titanium, and ST, came with an 8-inch Sync 3 infotainment system, providing a more user-friendly experience with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler's technology offerings varied by trim, with the Sport and Sport S featuring a basic 5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth and USB connectivity. The Rubicon and Sahara came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen, offering a more advanced Uconnect system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An optional 8.4-inch Uconnect system was available, adding navigation, HD Radio, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot, along with an Alpine premium audio system for enhanced sound quality.

The 2019 Ford Edge came equipped with a reversing camera, traction control, and a comprehensive set of airbags. Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assistance features was standard, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, automatic high-beams, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims could be upgraded with the Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package, adding adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, and lane-centering.

The 2020 Jeep Wrangler included standard safety features like airbags, electronic roll mitigation, and a backup camera cleverly located on the spare tire hub. Optional safety packages added rear parking sensors, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, adaptive cruise control, and full-speed forward-collision warning, enhancing safety for the Wrangler's unique design and driving experience.