I’ve always been fascinated by the versatility and power of midsize SUVs, having driven them through city streets and open highways for years.
The 2024 Ford Edge and 2025 Toyota Highlander are two standout contenders in this competitive segment, each offering unique strengths for families, adventurers, and daily commuters.
This article will dive deep into their features, performance, and value to help you decide which SUV best fits your lifestyle.
Comparison Table: Ford Edge Vs. Toyota Highlander
| Feature | Ford Edge (2024) | Toyota Highlander (2025) |
| Starting MSRP | $39,960 | $41,270 |
| Engine Options | 2.0L EcoBoost I-4 (250 hp), 2.7L V6 (335 hp) | 2.4L Turbo (265 hp), 2.5L Hybrid (243 hp) |
| Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | 21/28 MPG | 22/29 MPG (Gas), 36/35 MPG (Hybrid) |
| Cargo Space (Behind 2nd Row) | 39.2 cu. ft. | 16.0 cu. ft. (Gas), 16.0 cu. ft. (Hybrid) |
| Seating Capacity | 5 | 7 or 8 (depending on configuration) |
| Towing Capacity | 3,500 lbs (with tow package) | 5,000 lbs (Gas), 3,500 lbs (Hybrid) |
| Infotainment Screen | 12-inch SYNC 4A | 8-inch (up to 12.3-inch on higher trims) |
| Safety Features | Ford Co-Pilot360 | Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+ |
| All-Wheel Drive | Standard | Optional (standard on some trims) |
| Reliability Rating (iSeeCars) | 8.6/10 | 8.9/10 |
My Journey With Midsize SUVs
My interest in midsize SUVs sparked during a cross-country road trip where comfort and cargo space were non-negotiable. As a daily driver who values performance but also needs practicality for family outings, I tested both the Ford Edge and Toyota Highlander over a month, driving them in urban settings, highways, and light off-road conditions. I compared their handling, tech, and comfort to see which one truly delivers.
Key Features Of Ford Edge
- Design Philosophy & Target User: The Ford Edge is crafted for drivers seeking a sporty, two-row SUV with a focus on performance and modern tech. Its sleek design and powerful engine options appeal to those who prioritize driving dynamics over maximum seating, ideal for small families or couples who value cargo space and style.
- Specific Features:
- EcoBoost Engines: The standard 2.0L EcoBoost I-4 delivers 250 horsepower with 280 lb-ft of torque, while the optional 2.7L V6 in the ST trim boosts output to 335 horsepower, offering thrilling acceleration for highway merges.
- SYNC 4A Infotainment: The standard 12-inch touchscreen is intuitive, with crisp graphics and seamless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration, making navigation and media access effortless.
- Cargo Management System: With 39.2 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 73.4 cubic feet with seats folded, the Edge excels for road trips or hauling gear.
- Summary: The Ford Edge is best suited for drivers who want a responsive, tech-forward SUV with ample cargo space and don’t need third-row seating.
Key Features Of Toyota Highlander
- Design Philosophy & Target User: The Toyota Highlander is designed for families needing versatility, with three-row seating for up to eight passengers and a reputation for reliability. It balances efficiency (especially in hybrid form) with practical features, targeting those who prioritize space and dependability.
- Specific Features:
- Hybrid Powertrain: The available 2.5L hybrid engine delivers 243 horsepower with 36/35 MPG (city/highway), ideal for eco-conscious drivers looking to save on fuel.
- Third-Row Seating: The Highlander’s third row accommodates up to eight passengers, making it a go-to for larger families or carpools.
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+: This suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alerts, and pedestrian detection, enhancing safety across all trims.
- Summary: The Toyota Highlander is perfect for families or those needing extra seating and fuel efficiency, particularly in its hybrid configuration.
Pros Of Ford Edge
- Powerful Performance: The Edge’s 2.7L V6 in the ST trim delivers exhilarating power, making it feel more like a sports sedan than an SUV. I felt confident overtaking slower vehicles on highways.
- Spacious Cargo Area: With 39.2 cubic feet behind the second row, I easily packed camping gear for a weekend trip without folding seats.
- Advanced Infotainment: The 12-inch SYNC 4A system was a standout, offering quick responses and a user-friendly interface that outshone smaller screens in competitors.
Cons Of Ford Edge
- Limited Seating: The Edge’s two-row design caps seating at five, which may not suit larger families or those needing extra passenger space.
- Fuel Economy: At 21/28 MPG, the Edge lags behind the Highlander’s hybrid option, which could be a drawback for frequent commuters.
- Larger Turning Radius: Its 39.3-foot turning radius made tight city maneuvers slightly trickier compared to the Highlander’s 37.4 feet.
Pros Of Toyota Highlander
- Versatile Seating: The ability to seat up to eight passengers makes the Highlander ideal for family outings or group trips, a clear advantage over the Edge.
- Hybrid Efficiency: The hybrid model’s 36/35 MPG is a game-changer for long drives, saving me noticeable fuel costs during testing.
- Strong Resale Value: With a 5-year depreciation rate of 39.2% compared to the Edge’s 50.3%, the Highlander retains value better, a plus for budget-conscious buyers.
Cons Of Toyota Highlander
- Limited Cargo Space: With only 16.0 cubic feet behind the second row, the Highlander struggled to accommodate larger loads without folding seats.
- Base Infotainment: The standard 8-inch touchscreen feels outdated compared to the Edge’s 12-inch display, requiring upgrades for a comparable experience.
- Less Dynamic Performance: The Highlander’s 2.4L turbo engine, while adequate, lacks the punch of the Edge’s V6, making it less engaging on open roads.
Read more: My Thoughts on GMC Terrain Vs. Ford Escape.
Analytical Breakdown: How They Compare On The Road
- Brief Intro: To compare the Ford Edge and Toyota Highlander, I tested both over a month, including city commutes, highway drives, and a weekend trip with family, evaluating performance, comfort, and practicality.
- Performance (Acceleration): The Edge’s 2.7L V6 (335 hp) outpaces the Highlander’s 2.4L turbo (265 hp), offering quicker 0-60 times (around 5.5 seconds vs. 7.0 seconds). The Edge felt more responsive during merges, while the Highlander’s hybrid was smoother but less thrilling.
- Handling and Control: The Edge’s sport-tuned suspension in the ST trim provided sharper cornering and better grip on winding roads. The Highlander’s softer suspension prioritized comfort, absorbing bumps well but feeling less agile in tight turns.
- Comfort and Feel: The Edge’s cabin feels premium with soft-touch materials and a quiet ride, though its seats were slightly firmer. The Highlander’s interior, with optional leather and heated seats, offered plush comfort, especially for long drives.
- Cargo and Utility: The Edge’s 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space easily handled luggage and gear, while the Highlander’s 16.0 cubic feet required folding the third row for similar capacity, limiting its flexibility.
- Price and Value: The Edge starts at $39,960, slightly less than the Highlander’s $41,270. However, the Highlander’s hybrid option and better resale value make it a stronger long-term investment for families.
Who Should Choose Which SUV?
- Recommendation for Ford Edge: The Edge is ideal for drivers with smaller families or couples who prioritize performance, cargo space, and modern tech. It suits those who enjoy spirited driving and don’t need third-row seating.
- Recommendation for Toyota Highlander: The Highlander is best for larger families or those needing extra seating and fuel efficiency. Its hybrid option and reliability make it perfect for eco-conscious buyers or long-term owners.
My Real-World Experience
- Detailed Anecdote 1: On a weekend camping trip, the Edge’s cargo space easily swallowed two duffel bags, a cooler, and camping chairs without folding seats, leaving room for passengers to stretch out. The Highlander, however, required folding the third row, which limited seating options.
- Detailed Anecdote 2: During a rainy city commute, the Edge’s responsive handling and standard AWD gave me confidence on slick roads, while the Highlander’s softer suspension felt less planted but absorbed potholes better, making for a smoother ride.
Why These SUVs Matter For Amateurs
- General Statement: Both the Ford Edge and Toyota Highlander are designed to meet the needs of everyday drivers, balancing practicality with modern features.
- Benefits for Amateurs: The Edge offers forgiving handling and ample cargo for casual road trips, while the Highlander’s seating and hybrid efficiency cater to families and budget-conscious drivers.
- Reiteration of Choice: Your choice depends on whether you prioritize performance and cargo (Edge) or seating and fuel savings (Highlander), with neither being definitively better.
Also read: My Thoughts on Ford Edge Vs. Hyundai Tucson.
Frequently Asked Questions (Faq)
The Ford Edge is ideal for drivers seeking a sporty, two-row SUV with strong performance and cargo space, perfect for small families or couples.
The Toyota Highlander suits larger families or those needing third-row seating and hybrid efficiency, prioritizing versatility and reliability.
The Ford Edge can tow up to 3,500 lbs with the Class II Trailer Tow Package, suitable for small trailers or boats.
The Highlander offers 22/29 MPG (gas) or 36/35 MPG (hybrid), making the hybrid a standout for fuel savings.
The Toyota Highlander is better for families due to its three-row seating and reliability, while the Edge suits smaller groups needing cargo space.
Pros rarely use midsize SUVs for professional purposes, but those prioritizing performance might lean toward the Edge, while reliability-focused pros may choose the Highlander.
Conclusion
The Ford Edge and Toyota Highlander are both excellent midsize SUVs, but they cater to different needs. The Edge shines with its powerful engines, spacious cargo, and modern tech, making it a great choice for performance-driven drivers. The Highlander excels with its versatile seating, hybrid efficiency, and strong resale value, ideal for families. Your decision hinges on whether you value sporty dynamics or family-friendly practicality.
