2024 Ford Edge

Every Passport comes with Honda's ultra-smooth 3.5-liter V6, which is good for 280 horsepower, 30 more hp than the Edge. Every Edge trim except the performance-oriented ST is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder. We prefer the honesty and response of Honda's V6 in most driving scenarios, even if it makes less torque than the Edge's engine. Both offer ample cargo space, but the Passport gets the edge (see what we did?) there too. And the Passport offers a more modern design without compromising comfort or utility. Bottom line? You're going to need to conjure up a pretty big justification to choose the Edge over the Passport.

Think of Subaru's Outback as the car lover's SUV. It manages to squeeze a lot of vehicle into a little space. Here's what we mean: It offers a nearly car-like roof height but still has an SUV-like 8.7 inches of ground clearance. It's not quite as spacious inside as the Edge but it does come with standard all-wheel drive. The base engine offers considerably less power relative to the Edge, but there's a more powerful turbocharged engine available. And you'll need that engine to match even the base Edge's acceleration. Ultimately, the Outback is unique in this segment for all the reasons we mention. Consider it if you're looking for a car-like approach to SUVing.

Toyota's hybrid-only Venza offers notably less cargo space than the Edge. But the trade-off for less space is a combined mpg rating that's 13 mpg better than the Ford's. That matters. It also comes standard with all-wheel drive and feels like a thoroughly modern vehicle compared to the aging Edge. And despite being down on power, the Venza's powertrain moves it from 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, which is nearly a dead heat with the Edge. Give the Venza a look if efficiency, modern styling and tech rank high on your needs list.