2019 Ford Edge vs 2020 Lexus GX

The 2019 Ford Edge received a facelift that included a new grille, headlights, and lower front fascia, giving it a sportier appearance. The rear also saw updates with new taillights and a larger black panel replacing the red connector between the taillights. Despite these exterior changes, the interior remained largely unchanged from previous models, feeling dated and heavily reliant on plastics. The cabin featured a new rotary shifter but still felt like a decade-old design.

In contrast, the 2020 Lexus GX, though updated with a new hourglass grille and headlights, retained much of its decade-old design. The interior, with its large, chunky center console and big buttons, felt unchanged from the early 2010s. However, this rugged and basic design worked well for the GX's off-road capabilities. The GX's cabin was functional, with large dials and knobs that could be operated while wearing work gloves, a feature that highlighted its utilitarian nature.

The 2019 Ford Edge offered a 2-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine in its non-ST trims, producing 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, provided a reliable performance with either front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The ST trim, however, featured a more powerful 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, exclusively with all-wheel drive. The ST's performance was impressive, with fantastic acceleration and precise cornering abilities, making it a fun yet comfortable ride. Fuel economy for the base engine was 22 mpg city, 29 highway, and 25 combined, while the ST returned 19/26/21.

The 2020 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and standard 4-wheel drive. Despite its age, the V8 provided a powerful and smooth driving experience. The GX's steering was light yet responsive, and the self-leveling air suspension offered a smooth and composed ride. The GX excelled in off-road conditions, with various 4WD modes and a suspension height adjustment feature. It could tow up to 6,500 pounds and had a tight turning radius of 19 feet. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with 15 mpg city, 19 highway, and 16 combined.

The 2019 Ford Edge's cabin, though dated, was practical with deep cargo bins, USB ports, and large in-door pockets. The front seats were comfortable, but the ST's bucket seats were not ideal for taller individuals. The rear seats were spacious, providing ample head- and legroom, and the cargo space was generous with 39 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 73.4 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The 2020 Lexus GX offered second-row captain's chairs in the Premium and Luxury trims, with the latter also featuring power-folding third-row seats. The captain's chairs provided easy access to the third row, though getting in and out was more challenging for adults. The GX's cargo space was limited to 64.7 cubic feet with all rear seats folded, less than some competitors. The side-opening rear hatch was unique but not particularly advantageous, though the separately opening rear window was a useful feature.

The 2019 Ford Edge's base infotainment system featured a small 4.2-inch non-touchscreen with basic functionality, including a USB port, WiFi hotspot, and Bluetooth. Higher trims offered an 8-inch Sync 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration, providing a more user-friendly experience despite its average graphics.

The 2020 Lexus GX's infotainment system was outdated, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it featured a true touchscreen with large buttons for audio, navigation, and climate controls, making it simpler to use compared to modern Lexus systems. This older setup was more straightforward and user-friendly, despite missing some modern connectivity features.

The 2019 Ford Edge came standard with a reversing camera, traction control, and a full set of airbags. It also included Ford’s Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assistance features, such as 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 a lane-centering system.

The 2020 Lexus GX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ as standard, including forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic high beams. It also featured blind-spot monitoring and an available surround-view camera. The GX's excellent visibility, thanks to its high seating position and large windows, further enhanced its safety.