2019 INFINITI QX80 vs 2020 Ford Edge

The 2019 INFINITI QX80, despite its age, maintained a commanding presence as Infiniti's flagship model. Its design, updated in 2018, featured a more elegant front end compared to its Nissan Armada counterpart. The QX80 boasted slim, slanted LED headlights and a curved rectangular grille with a classic crosshatch pattern. The hood and front bumper had sensuous curves, contrasting with the boxy profile that began behind the windshield. The rear design included LED taillights connected by a chrome strip, breaking up the vehicle's bulkiness. The QX80's imposing stature was accentuated by standard 20-inch wheels and tall side mirrors. The Limited trim, introduced in 2019, added two-tone 22-inch rims, unique paint, and a luxurious black-and-white interior with leather and microsuede finishes. However, the doors were criticized for being thin and poorly insulated, allowing cold air to seep in during freezing conditions.

The 2020 Ford Edge, a product of Ford's second-generation Edge lineup, received a styling update in 2019 that carried over to 2020. This update gave the Edge a resemblance to the Ford Fusion sedan, with angular headlights and a large trapezoidal grille. Inside, the Edge's layout remained largely unchanged since 2015, with minor updates in 2019. The center console featured small, awkwardly arranged climate and radio controls, while the rotary shifter addressed space issues. The cabin quality was decent, with soft-touch materials and solid fit-and-finish, though marred by the extensive use of hard plastics. The Edge was available in SE, SEL, Titanium, and ST trims, each offering a range of features from power-adjustable seats and infotainment systems to premium audio and driver assistance technologies.

The 2019 INFINITI QX80 excelled in towing capacity, boasting an 8,500-pound tow rating, surpassing competitors like the Mercedes GLS and BMW X7. Its 5.6-liter V8 engine delivered 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, providing ample power for both passengers and cargo. The 7-speed automatic transmission offered quick shifts, and the steering was light yet stable. The QX80 featured a fully independent suspension with Hydraulic Body Motion Control, enhancing on-road performance. However, its fuel economy was poor, averaging 15 mpg, with EPA ratings of 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. It offered solid low-end acceleration, suitable for city driving, though it struggled at higher speeds. The Edge ST variant featured a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, with standard AWD. The ST provided a more engaging driving experience, with heavy steering and excellent cornering. The Edge's suspension absorbed road imperfections well, offering a refined ride. The ST's Sport mode enhanced throttle response and transmission mapping, while an optional Performance Brake Package added unique wheels and upgraded brakes.

The 2019 INFINITI QX80 offered seven-passenger seating with standard second-row captain’s chairs and power-reclining third-row seats. An optional second-row bench increased capacity to eight passengers. The QX80 provided 95.1 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats flat, or 16.6 cubic feet with seats upright. The interior featured ample storage, vents for climate control, and heated seats, though it lacked a cooled drink bin and 4-zone climate control.

The 2020 Ford Edge excelled in cabin layout, offering a commanding view of the road and ample storage compartments. The second-row provided generous head- and legroom, ensuring comfort without adjusting front seats. The Edge offered 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 73.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The SEL and Titanium trims included a hands-free power liftgate, enhancing convenience.

The 2019 INFINITI QX80's technology was criticized for its outdated interface. The main touchscreen, controlled by a rotary knob, was simple but unresponsive in cold conditions. The instrument panel's monochrome display was compared to outdated technology, lacking features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a head-up display. The navigation system was poorly rendered, and the 15-speaker Bose stereo was deemed only adequate. The rear-view mirror's live camera-feed overlay was a standout feature, but overall, the QX80's tech offerings were lacking.

The 2020 Ford Edge impressed with its standard SYNC 3 infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with easy navigation. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, eliminating the need for additional navigation costs. The Edge offered optional voice-activated navigation with real-time traffic updates. Standard smart-charging USB ports and an available dual rear-seat entertainment system enhanced convenience. The semi-digital instrument panel was available on higher trims, providing a modern touch.

The 2019 INFINITI QX80 came with standard forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, while other features like lane-departure warning and adaptive cruise control were optional. It received a 4-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with poor frontal crash test results but excellent side-impact scores. The IIHS had not tested the QX80, and its older body structure was noted as a weakness.

The 2020 Ford Edge offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including front and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Ford Co-Pilot360 system, standard on all trims, included automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The SEL trim offered the Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package, adding adaptive cruise control and active lane centering. The Edge received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.