Ford Edge vs Hyundai Santa Fe Size 2023: Which SUV is the Perfect Fit?
When choosing a midsize SUV, size matters. For many families looking for a vehicle that balances style, comfort, and capability, two names often rise to the top - the 2023 Ford Edge and the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe. Both SUVs are known for their reliability, great performance, and modern design. But how do they compare when it comes to size, interior space, and overall practicality? Let’s dive into the details and see how these SUVs match up against each other.
Introduction to the Ford Edge and Hyundai Santa Fe 2023
The midsize SUV segment is flooded with options, yet both the Ford Edge and Hyundai Santa Fe have cemented their place as popular choices. For 2023, both models bring in sleek designs, upgraded technology, and enough space to cater to family needs. Let’s look deeper into how they stand apart in terms of size, dimensions, and interior space, and analyze which one may be the better fit for you.
Exterior Dimensions Comparison
Length, Width, and Height
When considering the size of an SUV, exterior dimensions play a crucial role in how the vehicle fits your needs. Let’s start by comparing the length, width, and height of the 2023 Ford Edge and Hyundai Santa Fe.
- Ford Edge Dimensions
- Length: 188.8 inches
- Width (without mirrors): 75.9 inches
- Height: 68.3 inches
- Hyundai Santa Fe Dimensions
- Length: 188.4 inches
- Width (without mirrors): 74.8 inches
- Height: 66.3 inches
As you can see, the Ford Edge is slightly longer and wider than the Hyundai Santa Fe, but the difference is minimal. This slight length advantage can mean better road presence and perhaps a bit more interior room, but it may also make the Edge a bit more cumbersome to park in tight spaces. The Santa Fe, being a tad shorter and narrower, may appeal to drivers who prefer a more compact and maneuverable ride.
However, in terms of height, the Edge stands 2 inches taller than the Santa Fe, which can contribute to a more commanding view of the road and a higher seating position that many SUV drivers appreciate.
Interior Dimensions and Comfort
Passenger Space
When it comes to interior comfort, both the Ford Edge and Hyundai Santa Fe offer generous space for passengers. However, there are some slight differences that can influence your choice.
Ford Edge Interior Space:
- Passenger Volume: 113.9 cubic feet
- Front Headroom: 40.2 inches
- Front Legroom: 42.6 inches
- Rear Headroom: 40.3 inches
- Rear Legroom: 40.6 inches
Hyundai Santa Fe Interior Space:
- Passenger Volume: 110.7 cubic feet
- Front Headroom: 41.2 inches
- Front Legroom: 44.1 inches
- Rear Headroom: 39.0 inches
- Rear Legroom: 41.7 inches
While both SUVs are quite roomy, the Santa Fe offers more front headroom and legroom, making it slightly better for taller drivers and passengers in the front row. However, the Edge provides more rear headroom and rear legroom, which could make the back seats more comfortable for adults or teens.
Alex Collantes, a car enthusiast who test-drove both models, mentioned, “I found the Ford Edge to have a more open and airy feel in the backseat. If you’re planning on carrying backseat passengers often, the Edge gives them that extra bit of space to stretch out.”
Cargo Capacity
Another key factor in the practicality of an SUV is its cargo capacity. Whether you’re loading up for a family road trip or just picking up groceries, having enough room in the back is essential.
-
Ford Edge Cargo Space:
- Behind Second Row: 39.2 cubic feet
- Maximum Cargo Volume (seats folded): 73.4 cubic feet
-
Hyundai Santa Fe Cargo Space:
- Behind Second Row: 36.4 cubic feet
- Maximum Cargo Volume (seats folded): 72.1 cubic feet
The Ford Edge edges out the Santa Fe slightly in terms of cargo space. The extra few cubic feet can be noticeable when packing larger items or several suitcases. However, the Santa Fe still offers a very respectable amount of cargo room, and its cargo floor is slightly lower, which can make loading and unloading easier.
Driving Experience and Practicality
Seating and Comfort
One of the major selling points of both the Ford Edge and Hyundai Santa Fe is their comfortable seating for both drivers and passengers. Each vehicle offers two rows of seating with five-passenger capacity, with ample cushioning and support for long drives.
In the Edge, the seats are noted for being spacious, with plenty of room to get comfortable. The Hyundai Santa Fe is known for its slightly softer seat materials and plush ride quality, which some may find preferable for longer trips.
However, the Santa Fe's lower height means you may not get the same commanding view as in the Edge, which could be a factor if you’re used to that elevated SUV feel.
Interior Materials and Build Quality
The Ford Edge has a modern and sporty interior design. Depending on the trim level, you’ll find leather or premium cloth upholstery, and the dashboard has a minimalistic layout with an easy-to-read touchscreen display.
The Hyundai Santa Fe shines when it comes to interior build quality, often considered a step up from the Edge in terms of fit and finish. The Santa Fe's cabin materials are soft-touch and look quite upscale, giving it a more refined atmosphere that drivers who value aesthetics will appreciate.
Technology and Infotainment
Both the Ford Edge and Hyundai Santa Fe come equipped with modern infotainment systems and driver-assist features, making the driving experience more connected and safer.
Ford Edge
- Comes standard with SYNC 4 infotainment system.
- 12-inch touchscreen is standard.
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
- Available Ford Co-Pilot360 technology suite for advanced driver aids.
Hyundai Santa Fe
- Comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen (10.25-inch touchscreen available).
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across all trims.
- Hyundai SmartSense package offers safety features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
Both vehicles have excellent tech offerings, but the Ford Edge's larger standard screen may be more appealing to those who want a bigger visual experience, whereas the Santa Fe’s technology is very intuitive and offers plenty of standard features even at the base level.
Fuel Efficiency and Performance
Engine Options
The 2023 Ford Edge offers a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, while the Santa Fe comes with a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or an available turbocharged version for those looking for extra performance.
Performance Comparison
- Ford Edge: 250 horsepower with a smooth and steady acceleration.
- Hyundai Santa Fe: 191 horsepower for the base model, and 277 horsepower with the turbocharged engine.
Fuel Economy
In terms of fuel efficiency, both vehicles are quite close, but the Hyundai Santa Fe has a slight edge:
- Ford Edge: EPA estimated 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway.
- Hyundai Santa Fe: EPA estimated 25 mpg city / 28 mpg highway for the standard engine.
The Santa Fe’s better fuel efficiency could be a selling point for those who drive frequently in the city and want to save on gas.
Safety Features and Ratings
Both SUVs prioritize safety and come with an array of features designed to protect the driver and passengers.
Ford Edge Safety
The Ford Edge comes with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, which includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist as standard features.
Hyundai Santa Fe Safety
The Hyundai SmartSense package is also loaded with features like adaptive cruise control, rear cross-traffic alert, and forward collision warning. The Santa Fe has earned top safety ratings, including the IIHS Top Safety Pick award.
Potential Drawbacks of Each SUV
Ford Edge Cons
- Limited Engine Options: Only one standard engine available, which might not appeal to those seeking higher performance.
- Fuel Efficiency: Slightly lower mpg in the city compared to the Santa Fe.
- Interior Quality: While practical and modern, some may find the materials a bit less refined than those in the Santa Fe.
Hyundai Santa Fe Cons
- Slightly Smaller Cargo Space: Less room behind the second row and overall compared to the Edge.
- Lower Driving Position: The Santa Fe’s lower height can be less appealing to those who prefer a high riding position.
- Base Engine Power: The standard engine is adequate for daily driving but might feel underpowered compared to the Ford Edge.
Final Verdict: Which One Is Right for You?
Choosing between the 2023 Ford Edge and 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe really comes down to your personal needs and preferences. If you value a bit more cargo space, a higher driving position, and appreciate a larger standard touchscreen, the Ford Edge may be the right choice for you. However, if you’re looking for a refined interior, better standard safety features, and fuel efficiency, then the Hyundai Santa Fe could be the better option.
According to Alex Collantes, “Both SUVs have their unique strengths. The Edge feels sportier and slightly more rugged, while the Santa Fe feels like a well-crafted daily driver that offers great value for money. It really comes down to what you prioritize in a vehicle.”
Key Takeaways
- Ford Edge is slightly larger in size and offers more cargo space.
- Hyundai Santa Fe offers better fuel economy and a more refined interior.
- Both SUVs have modern tech and strong safety features.
In the end, both SUVs are solid choices in their class, but understanding their size differences and how that translates to everyday usability can help you make a more informed decision.
References
- Ford Official Site - 2023 Ford Edge Dimensions & Specs
- Hyundai Official Site - 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Dimensions & Specs
- Consumer Reports - SUV Comparison Guide
- Car and Driver - 2023 Midsize SUV Reviews
Feel free to test drive both models and see which one feels more comfortable and fits your lifestyle better!