Used 2020 Ford Edge

#19 in Best Midsize SUVs for 2020

The 2020 Ford Edge is a 5-seater midsize-crossover SUV. So that puts it in contention with rivals like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Honda Passport and Nissan Murano. Solid choices, sure, yet somewhat lacking in spice.

For those looking to buy this kind of vehicle but have trouble concentrating after a few minutes of research, here’s the answer. The 2020 Edge — while still sensible, well-equipped and spacious — also brings a bit of interest, a degree or three of engagement. Unless it’s the Edge ST, in which case minds could be blown.

The Edge isn’t perfect, however. If decent off-road ability is required, investigate the Jeep Grand Cherokee. And although the Honda Passport is more expensive to buy, it holds its value better. But as a road-going crossover SUV that can be sumptuous or sharp, the Edge deserves attention.

The turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine in most versions of the 2020 Edge is certainly up to the task of motivating this hefty midsize-crossover SUV. The ride quality is similarly well-tuned, with a talent for tautness yet also a capacity for comfort.

Those seeking more distinct thrills, though, should check out the 335-horsepower Edge ST. This model’s sport suspension won’t be so forgiving over rough surfaces, but, in concert with the grippy tires and punchy V6, the ST is a rare beast — an SUV that responds well to being pushed, with the ability to attack corners and keep body roll to a minimum.

Our major complaint about any Edge is that outward vision is hampered by wide pillars. We’re glad blind-spot monitoring is standard.

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One of the 2020 Edge’s many attributes is its spacious cabin. It’s a 5-seater; Ford hasn’t attempted to cram in a third row. So rear passengers can enjoy a generous 40.6 inches of legroom.

Up front, the center console houses an 8-inch touch screen that’s standard in the SLE trim and above (the SE’s display measures 4.2 inches) along with a rotary gear selector. Titanium trim brings a wireless charging pad, which is optional in the SEL.

The ST’s front seats (with suede-like inserts) have more pronounced bolstering for holding their occupants through quick corners. It also has its own digital instrument cluster.

Luggage space measures 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats. This area increases to 73.4 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded.

Although the 2020 Edge is a mainstream model, there’s a touch of premium about it. Things like 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights and taillights are standard right from the entry-level SE trim.

The Edge is quite a wide vehicle. That’s great for shoulder room and chassis stability alike. But tight parking spaces will call for utmost care and attention.

The ST version comes with a gloss-black grille and matching fog-light surrounds, plus black bezels in the headlights and dual exhaust outlets. It’s also available in a dedicated Performance Blue.

2.7-LITER ECOBOOST ENGINE
Admittedly, this turbocharged 335-horsepower V6 is available only in the enthusiast-oriented 2020 Edge ST. But, along with a sport suspension, it turns the Edge into an engaging crossover SUV with real performance. No rival can offer anything similar.

SYNC 3 INFOTAINMENT SYSTEM
It wasn’t always this good, but Sync 3 has evolved into an excellent user-friendly setup. It now includes Alexa, Amazon’s digital assistant, and the Apple CarPlay/Android Auto feature works with the Waze traffic/navigation app.

Anyone buying a new Ford Edge will be pleased to discover the high level of standard features. These include Wi-Fi for up to 10 devices, satellite radio, rain-sensing wipers, remote start/lock/unlock, and keyless entry/ignition. Even the rearview camera has its own little washer jet.

More good news: The Ford Co-Pilot 360 array of driver aids is also part of the deal, bringing forward-collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assistance and automatic high beams.

Higher trims bring more comfort and convenience touches, such as the Sync 3 infotainment system (from SEL up), hands-free tailgate operation, leather upholstery and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Each version of the 2020 Edge is eligible for all-wheel drive, except for the ST which has it as standard. And all versions may be fitted with a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment setup.

It’s at the SEL level where the Edge becomes eligible for a panoramic glass roof, 110-volt power outlet, heated front seats/steering wheel, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.

Most of those items are already in the Titanium model, whose options include heated rear seats and parking assistance. ST buyers can also opt for heated/cooled rear seats and upgraded brakes.

For extra driver aids, Ford Co-Pilot 360 Assist+ adds adaptive cruise control with a stop/go function, lane centering and evasive-steering assistance.

The main motivating force in the 2020 Edge lineup is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine developing 250 horsepower. It comes with a fuel-saving stop/start feature. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard; all-wheel drive (AWD) is optional.

A turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 endows the Edge ST with 335 horsepower and this model has all-wheel drive included.

Both engines connect to an 8-speed automatic transmission. In keeping with its sportier status, the ST variant also has gearshift paddles mounted beneath the steering wheel.

The Ford Edge has a 3,500-pound tow rating.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (SE, SEL, Titanium)
250 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
275 lb-ft of torque @ 3,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/29 mpg (FWD), 21/28 mpg (AWD)

2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 (ST)
335 horsepower @ 4,750 rpm
380 lb-ft of torque @ 2,750 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/26 mpg (AWD)