2020 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2020 Ford Edge

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a choice between SE, SEL, and Limited trims, with the "2.0T" versions providing enhanced power through a turbocharged engine. Optional all-wheel drive (AWD) allowed for better power distribution. Buyers could select from various paint colors, interior options, and dealer-installed accessories. The Limited 2.0T trim, priced at $39,170, featured a bold design that was not universally appealing, with a distinctive grille, lighting elements, and rear trim. Inside, the Santa Fe boasted a dramatic dual-cowl dashboard and high-contrast interior colors, though materials like glossy plastic and stiff leather were less impressive. Despite this, build quality was excellent, and the controls were refined. The Santa Fe's daring design was a hit for those who appreciated bold aesthetics.

The 2020 Ford Edge, introduced in 2006, was based on the Ford Fusion platform, offering a car-like ride and spacious cabin. The second generation, updated in 2019, carried over to 2020 with styling reminiscent of the Fusion, featuring angular headlights and a trapezoidal grille. Inside, the Edge showed its age with a layout unchanged since 2015, though it included modern touches like a rotary shifter. Cabin quality was decent, with soft-touch materials and solid fit-and-finish, but marred by hard plastics. Available in SE, SEL, Titanium, and ST trims, the Edge offered a range of features, from the SE's power-adjustable seats and SYNC 3 infotainment to the Titanium's premium audio and leather upholstery. The ST trim added performance enhancements, including a more powerful engine and sportier styling.

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe had a base 185-horsepower 2.4-liter engine, but the 2.0T turbocharged variant was preferred for its 235 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, offering better performance, especially at altitude. An eight-speed automatic transmission was standard, with optional AWD. The Santa Fe could tow up to 3,500 pounds and achieved an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined, with test results close at 22.1 mpg. The ride was smooth and quiet, with decent handling and braking, making it a competent daily driver, though not particularly engaging.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 250 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and optional AWD. It offered solid low-end acceleration but struggled at higher speeds. The Edge ST variant featured a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 with 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, providing a more engaging driving experience with heavy steering and excellent cornering. The ST's Sport mode enhanced throttle response and transmission mapping, while an available Performance Brake Package added unique wheels and upgraded brakes.

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe was designed with family needs in mind, offering creative storage solutions and stain-resistant fabric. The test model featured comfortable, power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, and a heated steering wheel. The dual-zone climate control included a Clean Air ionizer, and the panoramic sunroof added to the airy feel. Rear passengers enjoyed ample comfort with reclining seats and sunshades. However, cargo space was limited to 35.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 71.3 cubic feet total, though underfloor storage was a plus. The hands-free liftgate was a convenient feature.

The 2020 Ford Edge excelled in cabin layout, providing a commanding view and ample storage. The spacious second row offered generous head- and legroom without compromising front seat comfort. Cargo space was impressive, with 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 73.4 cubic feet with them folded, surpassing some competitors. The SEL and Titanium trims included a hands-free foot-activated power liftgate, enhancing convenience.

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a user-friendly infotainment system with a high-mounted touchscreen, stereo control knobs, and shortcut buttons. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The SEL trim added SiriusXM and Blue Link services, while the Limited trim offered a larger display, navigation, surround-view camera, and premium audio. A head-up display provided additional driving information, and the voice recognition system was notably sophisticated.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with the SYNC 3 infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with intuitive navigation and integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional navigation with real-time traffic updates was available, and the Edge included two smart-charging USB ports. A semi-digital instrument panel was available on higher trims, and a dual rear-seat entertainment system was optional.

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe earned top safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, with standard features like adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. The SEL trim added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while the Limited trim included a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The SEL Convenience Package offered an ultrasonic occupant alert system for added safety.

The 2020 Ford Edge also received high safety ratings, with standard airbags, traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Co-Pilot360 suite included automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The SEL trim offered an upgraded Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package with adaptive cruise control and active lane centering, providing semi-autonomous driving capabilities.