2021 BMW X3 vs 2020 Ford Edge

The 2020 Ford Edge, introduced in 2006, was based on the Ford Fusion sedan platform, offering a car-like ride and ample cabin space. The second generation, arriving in 2015, received a styling update in 2019, which carried over to 2020. This update gave the Edge a crossover version of the Fusion's look, with angular headlights and a large trapezoidal grille. Inside, the layout remained largely unchanged since 2015, with some updates in 2019. The cabin quality was decent, featuring soft-touch materials and solid fit-and-finish, but the heavy use of hard plastics detracted from the overall feel. The Edge was available in SE, SEL, Titanium, and ST trims, each offering a range of features from basic to near-luxury.

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. The redesign refined the X3's formula, giving it the presence of larger, more expensive BMW models. The exterior resembled a downsized X5, while the interior maintained BMW's cold, mechanical styling, which was functional but less aesthetically pleasing than some rivals. The X3 was available in sDrive30i, xDrive30i, M40i, and xDrive30e plug-in hybrid trims, each offering a range of standard and optional features, including genuine leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a hands-free power liftgate.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provided solid low-end acceleration, making it suitable for city driving. The Edge ST, the performance variant, featured a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque to standard AWD. The ST offered a more engaging driving experience, with heavy steering and excellent cornering capabilities, enhanced by a Sport mode that improved throttle response and transmission mapping.

The 2021 BMW X3's sDrive30i and xDrive30i trims were equipped with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 248 horsepower and paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid offered 288 horsepower and brisk acceleration, with a 17-mile electric-only range and a recharge time of about 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger. The M40i trim featured a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, providing robust acceleration and responsive cornering. For those seeking even more performance, the X3 M model delivered 473 horsepower.

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

The 2021 BMW X3 provided up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available. The X3's interior was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The driver and front passenger benefited from real buttons and dials, complementing the main touchscreen and reducing the learning curve for new users.

The 2020 Ford Edge featured the SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, standard across all trims. SYNC 3 included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, making navigation optional. The system was user-friendly, with a row of icons at the bottom and a home button for easy navigation. The Edge also offered a voice-activated navigation system, standard on the Titanium trim, and optional on the SEL and ST. Additional features included two smart-charging USB ports and an optional dual rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, which was user-friendly and offered both touch and dial operation. Apple CarPlay was standard, while Android Auto was optional. Other available features included wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, and a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system. The optional gesture control allowed basic controls through hand movements, though it could result in false positives for those who talk with their hands.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including front and side-impact airbags, AdvanceTrac traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Ford Co-Pilot360 safety system, standard on all trims, included automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, 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.

The 2021 BMW X3 included advanced driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning. Standard features also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.