2020 Acura MDX vs 2020 Ford Edge

The 2020 Acura MDX was a well-designed crossover SUV, though its styling was not particularly groundbreaking or breathtaking. It blended in seamlessly without drawing much attention, yet it did not embarrass its driver either. Acura's Jewel Eye LED headlights added a touch of sophistication to the front, with five LED elements per side arranged horizontally. The MDX's sleek, low-slung profile, chiseled details, and flawless paint and chrome were notable. Inside, the MDX featured a modern and simple design, highlighted by twin infotainment screens and high-quality materials that gave it a solid, well-built feel.

The 2020 Ford Edge, introduced in 2006 and updated in 2019, maintained a fresh look but lagged behind competitors in terms of redesign cycles. Its styling gave the impression of a crossover version of the Ford Fusion, with angular headlights and a large trapezoidal grille. Inside, the Edge showed signs of aging, with an overall layout unchanged since 2015. The center console had small, awkwardly arranged climate and radio controls, and a contemporary rotary shifter. The cabin quality was decent, with soft-touch materials and solid fit-and-finish, but the heavy use of hard plastics detracted from the overall feel.

The 2020 Acura MDX offered two powertrains: a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, and a Sport Hybrid with a 3.0-liter V6 and three electric motors, delivering 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque. The gasoline-only model with Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system displayed good straight-line performance and nimble handling, thanks to torque-vectoring technology. The MDX's four-wheel independent suspension provided a comfortable ride, making it a pleasant companion for long drives.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine provided solid low-end acceleration but struggled at higher speeds. The Edge ST, the performance variant, featured a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine with 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, offering impressive acceleration and handling. The ST's Sport mode enhanced throttle response and transmission mapping, making it a more engaging drive. The Edge's suspension smoothed out road imperfections, providing a refined and comfortable ride.

The 2020 Acura MDX, a three-row SUV, offered sliding and reclining second-row seats for easier access to the third row and adjustable legroom. It provided 15.8 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded and 90.9 cubic feet with the second row folded. The MDX featured ample storage options, including a big glove box, a flexible center console, and door panel pockets. Tri-zone climate control ensured comfort for all passengers.

The 2020 Ford Edge excelled in cabin layout, offering a commanding view of the road and plenty of cubbies and compartments. The second-row seats provided ample head- and legroom without needing to move the front seats. The Edge offered 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 73.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The SEL and Titanium trims featured a hands-free foot-activated power rear liftgate, adding convenience.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with standard tech features, including Siri Eyes Free, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an eight-speaker audio system. The Technology Package added rain-sensing windshield wipers, navigation, and a premium audio system. The Advance Package included additional tech features like a surround-view camera system and heated and ventilated front seats. The Entertainment Package offered a rear entertainment system with a 16.2-inch screen and HDMI compatibility.

The 2020 Ford Edge featured the SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. The Titanium trim included a voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic updates. The Edge also offered a semi-digital instrument panel and an optional dual rear-seat entertainment system. The standard tech features and user-friendly interface made the Edge a tech-savvy choice.

The 2020 Acura MDX came with standard AcuraWatch, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Technology Package added blind-spot monitoring, while the Advance Package included Head-Up Warning. The MDX's ACE Body Structure absorbed crash impact, earning it high safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2020 Ford Edge featured standard front and side-impact airbags, AdvanceTrac traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Ford Co-Pilot360 safety system included automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The SEL trim offered the Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package with adaptive cruise control and active lane centering. The Edge received high safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA.