2021 Ford Edge vs Hyundai Santa Fe

Today’s midsize crossover segment is loaded with great options. However, the 2021 Ford Edge continues to stand out. Drivers love the Edge’s good looks and family-friendly interior design. Another highly recommended pick is the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, with has received a long list of big updates. Let’s find out which SUV wins this head-to-head comparison.

The Powertrain

The Ford Edge returns for 2021 with the same engine lineup as before. Its standard turbo four-cylinder engine generates an ample 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. While most drivers won’t need any more muscle, a turbo six-cylinder engine is found on the sporty Edge ST. Ford tunes it to push out a smile-inducing 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are linked to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

The brand-new Hyundai Santa SUV is ready to hit the roads this year with a powerful four-cylinder engine and an eight-speed automatic gearbox. But intrepid drivers can step up to even bigger thrills, as they get their hands on a turbocharged version of the engine cranking out 277 horses and impressive 311 lb/ft torque - all perfectly paired with an ultra responsive dual clutch transmission for pure driving pleasure!

The Ford Edge takes the lead in terms of speed, offering a 0-60 mph time almost one full second faster than its Hyundai Santa Fe counterpart. Great acceleration and fuel efficiency make it a top choice for drivers who want their ride to go the extra mile - literally!

For drivers who crave power and speed, the Edge ST is an ideal choice. Boasting a speedy 5.9-second 0 to 60 mph time, this high output model will get you going fast! The turbocharged Santa Fe similarly impresses with its estimated 6.6 second sprint from zero to sixty; test drivers have described it as both quick and punchy too - perfect for those who want more than just speed on their road trips!
Drivers have the power to take on new, bigger hauling jobs with either the Edge or Santa Fe SUVs – both models boasting a hefty 3,500-pound maximum towing capacity. Those looking for an extra adventure can now hitch up anything from ATV's and small trailers right through to bass boats!

The Santa Fe is more engaging to drive than before. Drivers will certainly appreciate the extra power. Competent handling makes the Santa Fe great for daily commuting. Not only does the turbocharged model’s sport mode prompt the transmission to shift quicker, but it also gives the SUV a sportier steering feel.

Expect the Edge to bring a bit more driving fun. This is especially true for the rather exhilarating ST model. An upgraded sport suspension and a performance steering system ensures athletic handling. Owners will enjoy driving the Edge ST on a winding back road. However, the other Edge models are engaging enough for the daily grind.

Neither SUV is recommended for folks who plan to travel on rugged terrain. They lack the required off-road upgrades, including trail-rated shock absorbers and skid plates. However, available all-wheel drive helps ensure good traction on snowy streets.

In terms of fuel efficiency, the 2021 Ford Edge can deliver up to an EPA-calculated 21 mpg town/29 mpg freeway. However, fuel economy drops to 19 mpg town/26 mpg freeway for the more powerful Edge ST. Expect the Santa Fe to save drivers even more money at the pump. Hyundai’s new base powertrain has increased the SUV’s efficiency to 25 mpg town/28 mpg freeway. Opting for the turbocharged Santa Fe results in a fuel economy rating of 22 mpg city/28 mpg freeway.

When it comes to braking, the Edge takes around 129 feet to come to a complete stop from 60 mph. However, upgraded brakes further enhance the fun-to-drive Edge ST’s stopping power. While the Santa Fe’s 60-0 mph braking numbers are not available, test drivers had no complaints about the SUV’s ability to stop quickly.

The Ford Edge receives a 3.5 out of 5.0 rating in reliability, which is just a step above average. A 4.5 reliability rating puts the new Hyundai Santa Fe among the segment’s most dependable models. This is a big advanage for drivers who are looking for a long-term vehicle.

Drivers will also appreciate Hyundai’s superior warranty protection, which covers the powertrain for 100,000 miles. A 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty is included as well. By comparison, Ford gives the Edge a 60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Drivability

Both of these SUVs offer a pleasant ride. Even when equipped with upsized wheels, the Santa Fe still effectively soaks up imperfections in the road. Expect the Edge’s ride comfort to be just as good. However, sportier suspension tuning does cause the Edge ST’s ride to be a bit stiffer.

Like the 2021 Ford Edge, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe is considered to be a quiet SUV. However, passengers will hear some road noise when driving over rough asphalt. Expect the Edge to have an especially noise-free cabin. New acoustic glass helps filter out unwanted sounds. While the Edge is not a luxury vehicle, it’s just as quiet as one.

The Edge gets a mediocre rating in terms of outward visibility. Because of the SUV’s small rear window, drivers may have trouble spotting other motorists. Meanwhile, thick A-pillars hinder the Edge’s forward sight lines. Most car reviewers agree that the Santa Fe offers the best outward visibility. Aside from helping to ensure easier parking, this quality also gives drivers more security when changing lanes.

Whether you're traveling with a car full of passengers or packing the trunk up to the brim, both vehicles offer plenty of room. The Edge boasts more overall passenger volume but those extra few inches in rear legroom and front seat space on the Santa Fe make it an ideal ride for families seeking maximum comfort – especially if they have taller members!

When it comes to overall seat comfort, the Santa Fe wins this category. According to some automotive journalists, this SUV’s front seats rank among the most comfy in the class. There’s not as much support in the Edge’s standard seats. Fortunately, higher trim levels receive upgraded seats with more bolstering. Massaging front-seat functions and heated second-row seats are only offered on the Santa Fe’s new Calligraphy trim.

In regard to cargo space, the Edge has a small advantage. It provides nearly 40 cubic feet of storage space behind the rear seat. Meanwhile, there’s 34.6 cubic feet of cargo space in the Santa Fe. However, families can take advantage of the Santa Fe’s under-floor storage compartments.

A driver-friendly infotainment system is found in the Edge. Ford’s SYNC 3 interface now comes standard with a massive 12.0-inch touchscreen. Users will enjoy its HD graphics and fast processing. Navigation is optional.

While the Santa Fe’s standard 8.0-inch touchscreen is smaller, operating the system is easy. There’s a convenient rotary dial in the console, which enables drivers to navigate the interface while on the road. This year, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto have been added. Although Hyundai’s optional 10.1-inch touchscreen is nice, it does not feature wireless smartphone integration.

Only the Santa Fe has a head-up display on its list of optional equipment. This feature benefits drivers by projecting the speedometer’s key information onto the lower windshield.

Safety

The 2021 Ford Edge received a five-star overall safety rating from the federal government. It was among the few models to receive a flawless rating in every impact test. While the Edge was named a 2021 IIHS Top Safety Pick, this SUV’s standard headlights received a” poor” rating. Even the Edge’s upgraded LED headlights only earned an “acceptable” rating.

While the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe has yet to receive an official NHTSA crash rating, last year’s model took home a five-star overall rating. The Santa Fe’s optional headlights are also superior to those found on the Ford Edge.

Accident-avoidance technologies come standard on these crossovers. Among these advanced driving aids include blind-spot warning, automatic panic braking, and active lane control. While smart cruise control comes standard on the Santa Fe, it’s offered on the Edge’s higher trim levels.

A few exclusive safety features are available for the new Santa Fe. Many drivers will want Hyundai’s blind-spot camera system. Live video of oncoming videos can be displayed on the infotainment screen, which proves to be a big help on congested freeways. Meanwhile, Hyundai’s Safe Exit Assist helps prevent kids from opening their door into traffic. Like its America rival, the Santa Fe also offers an automatic parking system. While the Edge’s rearview camera is beneficial, Santa Fe buyers can upgrade to a surround-view camera.

Evasive Steering Assist is exclusively available on the Edge. When an impact is imminent, his feature is designed to help drivers to securely maneuver around the obstacle. Hyundai does not offers a similar technology on the Santa Fe.

Which Has the Best Value?

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe stands out as one of the best values in its segment, with a starting MSRP at nearly $3,000 less than its closest competitor. Even though prices have increased for this model year, many new features are included that make it an even better deal - such as touch screen display and smartphone connectivity. Another standout feature is the extended warranty offered by Hyundai; giving buyers more bang for their buck compared to Ford's Edge SUV offering!

The most luxurious model in the Edge’s lineup is the Titanium trim, which competes against the Santa Fe Calligraphy. While the Edge Titanium demands $38,440, Hyundai has priced the Santa Fe Calligraphy at $42,100. Although the Santa Fe Calligraphy has a steeper price tag, it does feel more upscale. Nicer Nappa leather upolstry lines the cabin. Drivers can also take advantage of this model’s head-up display and surround-view camera.

Which is Better?

Like the 2021 Ford Edge, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe deserves a test drive. Both of these three-row crossovers are practical family vehicles. To find out which SUV is better, we must take a closer look at their pros and cons.

The Ford Edge packs a bit more performance. Driving enthusiasts will especially enjoy the Edge ST’s rapid acceleration and slick handling. However, improved powertrain options enable the Santa Fe to satisfy most drivers. A higher city fuel economy rating also gives the Santa Fe an advantage over the Edge.

The Hyundai Santa Fe is a vehicle that radiates luxury, boasting features like massaging front seats and wireless phone integration. Meanwhile, the comfy Ford Edge falls short in giving off an expensive vibe; cheap-looking panels line its interior, making it far from luxurious compared to the Santa Fe.

With its recent styling refresh, the Santa Fe is sure to grab attention with its bold front fascia and snazzy 18-inch alloy wheels. Meanwhile, the Edge ST has a racy look that will make onlookers feel like it’s ready for any race track - thanks to sleek exhaust tips and aggressive bumpers adding flair. Which one would you choose?

Car shoppers after a stylish and luxurious family ride should turn to the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, which offers unbeatable class at an affordable price. If thrill-seeking is more your thing, then you can't go wrong with the performance-focused Ford Edge ST - certain to get hearts racing! For added peace of mind both models boast impressive warranties too.