2020 Lexus RX vs 2020 Ford Edge

The 2020 Lexus RX received a significant refresh, enhancing its appeal in a competitive market. The exterior updates included standard 18-inch wheels, slimmer headlights, and L-shaped taillights, with optional triple-beam LED headlights. The grille was redesigned to align with Lexus cars, and new paint colors like Moonbeam Beige Metallic and Nori Green Pearl were introduced. The rear featured a new shape with dual exhaust, a rear diffuser, and updated reflectors, along with an available hands-free tailgate. Inside, the RX maintained its well-appointed cabin with various interior color and material options, including wood and satin-brushed aluminum trim. The F Sport package added unique styling elements and performance features, while leather-wrapped surfaces provided a premium feel. However, the center stack's design appeared dated compared to industry trends.

The 2020 Ford Edge, based on the Ford Fusion platform, offered a car-like ride and spacious cabin. The second-generation Edge, updated in 2019, carried over to 2020 with styling reminiscent of the Fusion, featuring angular headlights and a large trapezoidal grille. Inside, the Edge showed its age with a layout unchanged since 2015, though subtle updates were made in 2019. The center console had small, awkwardly arranged controls, but the rotary shifter was a modern touch. The cabin quality was decent, with soft-touch materials and solid fit-and-finish, but 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 the SE's standard SYNC 3 infotainment system to the Titanium's premium sound system and the ST's performance enhancements.

The 2020 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX 350L variant had slightly reduced power at 290 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid RX 450h combined the V6 with an electric motor, achieving 308 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque, while the RX 450hL offered 259 horsepower from the gasoline engine and 165 horsepower from an electric motor. The RX's performance was smooth, with a 0-60 mph time of 7.9 seconds for most models. Fuel economy was a highlight for the hybrid models, with the RX 450h achieving 30 mpg combined. The RX F Sport models featured adaptive variable suspension and 20-inch wheels for improved agility, with various drive modes available, including Sport S+ for enhanced performance.

The 2020 Ford Edge came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque, with power routed through an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Edge ST, the performance variant, featured a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, with standard all-wheel drive. The Edge's suspension was designed for American roads, providing a comfortable ride while remaining engaging to drive. The ST offered a sportier experience, with heavy steering and excellent cornering capabilities. A Sport mode enhanced throttle response and transmission mapping, while an available ST Performance Brake Package included upgraded brakes and performance tires.

The 2020 Lexus RX's interior was not as minimalist or stylish as some German competitors, but it was functional. The two-row RX comfortably accommodated four adults, while the three-row RX-L's third row was best for small children. The cabin was spacious in the two-row configuration, with comfortable front seats and decent visibility, though the A-pillar could obstruct views. The RX's cargo area was smaller than rivals, with a high load floor limiting space. The RX 350L and 450hL also had less cargo space compared to competitors, with about 20 cubic feet less than the Lincoln Aviator. A hands-free liftgate was available on RX 350 and 450h models and standard on RX-L versions.

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 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. This was more than the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Nissan Murano, though slightly less than the Honda Passport. The SEL and Titanium trims featured a hands-free foot-activated power liftgate.

The 2020 Lexus RX's infotainment system was often criticized, but improvements were made for 2020, including moving the display closer to the driver. The 12.3-inch touchscreen was still challenging to navigate, but Apple CarPlay integration helped mitigate issues. The RX also offered Amazon Alexa, Android Auto, and other app compatibilities. The center console touchpad system was improved, and two additional USB ports were added, totaling six. The standard 12-speaker audio system was adequate, with an optional 15-speaker Mark Levinson system available.

The 2020 Ford Edge featured the SYNC 3 infotainment system as standard, with an 8-inch touchscreen that was user-friendly. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing for easy use of preferred navigation apps. An optional voice-activated navigation system was available on higher trims, with real-time traffic updates included. The Edge came with two smart-charging USB ports and an available semi-digital instrument panel. An optional dual rear-seat entertainment system was also offered.

The 2020 Lexus RX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including adaptive cruise control and automatic high beams. Additional features like daytime bicyclist detection and lane-tracing assist were standard. The RX received good safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though not as high as newer models. Lexus Enform Safety Connect and Service Connect subscriptions were included, though connectivity issues were noted during testing.

The 2020 Ford Edge included a comprehensive set of safety features, with front and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a tire pressure monitoring system. The Ford Co-Pilot360 suite was standard, offering 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. The Edge received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.