2019 Ford Edge vs 2020 Mazda CX-5

The 2019 Ford Edge underwent a significant facelift, receiving a new grille, headlights, and lower front fascia, which contributed to a sportier appearance. The rear design was similarly updated with new taillights and a larger black panel replacing the red connector. While the exterior received a much-needed refresh, the interior remained largely unchanged from earlier models, still reliant on outdated design elements and an abundance of plastic materials. The cabin featured useful elements like a new rotary shifter but failed to keep up with modern aesthetics.

In contrast, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 excelled in executing a premium feel. The model year saw enhancements like more standard equipment, refined instrumentation, and control markings, alongside improvements to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness. Its Kodo design language managed to make the CX-5 look both upscale and attractive. The interior, especially in the Signature trim, was adorned with Nappa leather upholstery, real wood, and a black headliner, all contributing to a luxurious cabin environment.

The 2019 Ford Edge offered a blend of functionality and power. The non-ST trims were powered by a 2-liter EcoBoost turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The ST trim was distinct with its 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering a robust 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, also coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Edge ST was praised for its impressive acceleration and balanced cornering abilities. The base model's fuel economy stood at 22 mpg city, 29 highway, whereas the ST achieved 19 mpg city, 26 highway.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 came standard with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, offering 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, with front-wheel drive standard and all-wheel drive optional. Higher trims like the Grand Touring Reserve and Signature featured a turbocharged version, providing up to 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque when running on premium fuel. The turbocharged engine, combined with G-Vectoring Control Plus, offered engaging driving dynamics. Fuel economy for the naturally aspirated engine with all-wheel drive was 26 mpg combined, while the turbocharged variant achieved 24 mpg combined.

Despite its dated interior, the 2019 Ford Edge was functional with practical storage solutions, including deep cargo bins and sizeable in-door pockets. The ST trim featured performance-oriented bucket seats, which, however, were not ideal for taller drivers due to limited adjustability. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed generous space, and the Ford Edge offered 39 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 aimed to balance its lack of interior space with an upscale cabin filled with premium materials. However, it was more cramped compared to competitors like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The front seats in the Signature trim were comfortable, though the rear legroom was limited. Cargo space was modest at 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 59.6 cubic feet when the seats were folded down.

The 2019 Ford Edge’s base infotainment system featured a basic 4.2-inch screen with supported functionalities like USB, WiFi hot spot, and Bluetooth. Higher trims like the SEL offered an 8-inch Sync 3 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration.

The 2020 Mazda CX-5 featured a Mazda Connect infotainment system reminiscent of German luxury brands. The Sport trim included a 7-inch touchscreen display operable when stationary, with added functionalities like Bluetooth and HD Radio. Higher trims offered an 8-inch touchscreen, Bose premium sound system, navigation, and a surround-view camera system. The system required acclimation, and usability was often marred by placement and response issues.

The 2019 Ford Edge boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including standard reversing cameras, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. The Co-Pilot360 suite added functionalities such as automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, automatic high-beams, and blind-spot monitoring.

In comparison, the 2020 Mazda CX-5 shone brightly in the safety department, with standard features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist, packaged under the i-Activsense banner. Additionally, the CX-5 sported standard LED headlights and rain-sensing wipers. It received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.