When you’re shopping for a brand new crossover, you just might find yourself choosing between the 2020 Ford Edge vs Nissan Kicks. Both options are big on technology and modern performance, albeit in their own ways. Keep reading Keystone Ford’s comparison guide to learn more about the pros and cons of each crossover SUV.
Roomy, Quiet Comfort: 2020 Ford Edge
As a midsize crossover, the Edge is much bigger on elbow and legroom than the Kicks. We also give it high marks for on-road comfort. This Ford crossover keeps road noise outside the cabin, making the cabin a great place for a chat. The front seats offer plenty of support, which comes in handy for long commutes, and the second-row seats slide and recline for maximum comfort.
The Nissan Kicks is a subcompact crossover. Its smaller dimensions make it a great pick for city driving, but the cabin feels confined in comparison. Seating isn’t quite as comfortable, either, especially in the rear seats, which can feel flat and a little too upright.
Stay Connected: 2020 Ford Edge
Want the latest in onboard tech gear? Choose the 2020 Edge. Each trim model comes standard with the Sync 3 infotainment system, which in turn give you an 8-inch touch screen and smartphone integration with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. When your cell connection dwindles, you can remedy the problem by connecting to the Edge’s Wi-Fi hotspot.
Like the Edge, the Nissan Kicks comes standard with a helpful rearview camera and a laundry list of safety aids (forward collision warning, emergency braking, lane-departure warning, etc.). However, unlike the Edge, the Kicks doesn’t offer a Wi-Fi hotspot. And, if you want an infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay/Android smartphone, you’re going to have to pay extra, because it’s only available on the midgrade SV trim model and up.
Sporty Capabilities: 2020 Ford Edge
With optional all-wheel drive and two engines to choose from, the Ford Edge is the sportiest option. Three trim models—the SE, SEL, and Titanium—utilize a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that handles fast-moving traffic with 250 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. The performance-based ST gets a twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 engine that’s even more powerful, getting you up to speed with 335 horses and 380 pound-feet of torque. With all-wheel drive, the Edge is especially athletic, sticking corners like a pro and improving driver control on icy Pennsylvania streets.
The Kicks, which doesn’t offer optional all-wheel drive, puts less of an emphasis on athleticism and more of an emphasis on fuel economy (see below). Every Kicks features the same engine, a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 122 horses and 114 pound-feet of torque. It’s not exactly speedy, but, eventually, it’ll get you where you want to go.
Thrifty Commuting: 2020 Nissan Kicks
The Kicks has the advantage here. Every trim model is EPA-rated for 33 mpg combined (31 city/36 highway mpg). This crossover will save you more at the pump, especially compared to the Ford Edge. Depending on which powertrain you select, the Edge earns up to 24 mpg combined (21/29 mpg).
While the 2020 Nissan Kicks might be the thriftier option, the 2020 Ford Edge gives modern drivers more of what they crave—namely, sporty performance, the latest tech gear, and enough legroom for the whole family.
Want to experience the Edge for yourself? Visit us at Keystone Ford, your friendly Chambersburg, Pennsylvania dealer.