In the 2018 Ford Edge and Toyota Highlander, you'll find a startling amount of legroom and a long list of modern tech features. But which is the best ride for your family? Our comparison guide is here to answer all of your questions.
Family-Style Comfort: 2018 Ford Edge
The mid-size Edge spans the gap between city-friendly compact crossovers and bigger three-row crossovers. Compared to competitors, the Edge supplies generous passenger space, especially in the rear row. Seating is plush and supportive, giving your entire crew the star treatment.
In the Toyota Highlander, you'll find three rows of passenger space. If you've got a big family, then the Highlander definitely comes highly recommended. However, we do wish there were more legroom in the third-row, which is better suited to kids. Like the Edge, the Highlander offers upscale comforts like full leather upholstery and a heated steering wheel.
Modern Technology: 2018 Ford Edge
The Edge's tech lineup helps you ease through your commute. The Sync 3 infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, displaying smartphone apps directly on your central touchscreen. You can now make calls and texts without even picking up your phone. Conveniences like keyless entry and ignition save time in the parking lot.
Like the Edge, the Toyota Highlander is home to an easy-to-use central touchscreen. However, the Highlander's infotainment system doesn't include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities. On upper trims, you'll find timesavers like keyless ignition and the Driver Easy Speak system. The latter transmits the driver's voice to rear-seat passengers.
Passenger Protection: 2018 Toyota Highlander
Here, the Highlander has the edge, because all trim models come standard with the Toyota Safety Sense bundle. It includes of all the latest driver aids, including lane departure intervention and forward collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking. This technology scans your surroundings and alerts you to danger, keeping you on your toes. Like the Toyota Highlander, the 2018 Ford Edge earned a perfect five-star rating in government crash tests. The Edge doesn't come standard with advanced driver aids, but you can add them to increase driver vigilance.
Fuel Economy: 2018 Ford Edge
Here, the Edge takes the lead. With this Ford's base engine, this peppy crossover earns up to 21 city/29 highway mpg. The Edge also offers two engine options, both of which increase output for a faster ride and increased utility. Properly equipped, this mid-size crossover can tow up to 2,000 pounds, making the Ford an ideal candidate for Jet Ski or light trailer owners. No matter which engine you prefer, you can add all-wheel drive to any Edge model for enhanced traction on wet or icy roads.
The 2018 Toyota Highlander is only slightly less fuel-efficient, earning up to 21/27 mpg. The Toyota, too, gives you options. If the thrifty four-cylinder engine isn't powerful enough, you can always select the 3.5-liter V6 engine. With the V6, you can also add all-wheel drive to the Highlander.
For family-duty, both of these crossovers make an excellent choice. However, the 2018 Ford Edge takes the lead with a powerful, fuel-efficient ride and high-tech infotainment equipment. Test-drive this mid-size crossover to experience the Edge's smooth ride, comfortable cabin, and savvy tech features for yourself.