2021 BMW X7 vs 2020 Ford Edge

The 2020 Ford Edge, a crossover SUV, was built on the same platform as the Ford Fusion sedan, offering a car-like ride and ample cabin space. Despite a styling update in 2019, the Edge's design was considered slightly outdated compared to its competitors, such as the Toyota Venza. The exterior featured angular headlights and a large trapezoidal grille, reminiscent of the Fusion. Inside, the cabin showed signs of aging, with a layout unchanged since 2015, though it included contemporary elements like a rotary shifter. The interior quality was decent, with soft-touch materials and solid fit-and-finish, but the use of hard plastics detracted from its overall appeal. 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 2021 BMW X7 was a luxury SUV that stood out for its superior interior quality and technological sophistication. It was available in three versions: the xDrive40i, M50i, and Alpina BX7, with prices starting at $74,900. The X7's design featured a massive grille, which was fitting for its size, and traditional BMW styling cues. Inside, the X7 shared similarities with the X5, offering high-tech design and high-quality materials. The cabin was equipped with premium features like extended leather upholstery, a suede headliner, and glass interior controls. The X7's interior was designed for comfort and luxury, with heated and ventilated seats, a five-zone climate control system, and ample space for passengers, including a surprisingly accommodating third row.

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 front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The engine provided solid low-end acceleration, suitable for city driving, though it struggled at higher speeds. The Edge's suspension was designed for American roads, absorbing potholes and providing a refined driving experience. The sporty Edge ST variant featured a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, with standard all-wheel drive. The ST offered a more engaging driving experience, with heavy steering and excellent cornering capabilities, enhanced by a Sport mode and an available Performance Brake Package.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, producing 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. It was equipped with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The X7 incorporated eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which included a 48-volt starter/generator and battery, enhancing fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Despite the technology, the X7's fuel economy ratings were slightly lower than the previous year, with 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering smooth and serene driving. However, its self-leveling air suspension struggled with body motions, affecting driving enjoyment. The Dynamic Handling Package improved maneuverability and stability, while the M Sport brakes provided reliable stopping power.

The 2020 Ford Edge excelled in cabin layout, offering a commanding view of the road and ample storage compartments. The second-row seats provided generous head- and legroom, ensuring comfort without needing to adjust the front seats. Although it lacked a third row, the Edge's two rows were spacious and comfortable. 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. This cargo capacity was competitive, surpassing some rivals like the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Nissan Murano. The SEL and Titanium trims featured a hands-free foot-activated power rear liftgate for added convenience.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was luxurious, with features like heated rear seats, five-zone climate control, and premium Merino leather upholstery. Front-seat comfort was exceptional, with heated seats, armrests, and a steering wheel as standard. The second-row captain's chairs were also comfortable, though the long rear doors could pose challenges in tight parking spaces. The X7's third-row seat was surprisingly accommodating for adults, with power-adjustable front and second-row seats facilitating access. The X7 offered 48.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row folded and 90.4 cubic feet with the second row down, though these figures were slightly below class leaders.

The 2020 Ford Edge featured the SYNC 3 infotainment system as standard across all trims, with an 8-inch touchscreen and user-friendly interface. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing drivers to use their preferred navigation apps. The Titanium trim offered a voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic updates. The Edge also came with two smart-charging USB ports and an optional dual rear-seat entertainment system. A semi-digital instrument panel was available on higher trims, providing additional customization options.

The 2021 BMW X7 was equipped with Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and the iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, both featuring 12.3-inch displays. The iDrive system included Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, enhanced SiriusXM 360L, and Connected Package Pro with real-time traffic and parking information. Wireless smartphone charging and a natural voice-recognition system were also included, though gesture control was inconsistent. The X7's technology was user-friendly, though it could be distracting while driving. The test vehicle also featured a head-up display, though visibility was limited with polarized sunglasses.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including front and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Ford Co-Pilot360 safety system was standard on all trims, offering 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 X7 included standard safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The Driving Assistance Professional Package added evasive-steering assist, traffic-jam assist, lane-control assist, and emergency stop assist. The X7's advanced driving assistance systems were effective, though some situations revealed limitations. The Parking Assistance Package offered semi-automated parking assist, a surround-view camera, and a drive recorder system.