The SUV market is hotter than the Houston summer! Auto-manufactures have been churning out more options for the SUV class. Randall Reed’s Planet Ford in Spring, TX (serving Houston, The Woodlands, Conroe and Kingwood) wants to help you out with the tough decision of what’s the best SUV for you.
We have tried to make your life a little easier to make an informed decision by creating a comparison of the top SUV’s in the class. We compared the 2013 Ford Edge Sport, 2013 Nissan Murano LE, and the 2013 Chevrolet Traverse LTZ based on engine performance, fuel economy, interior, technology, and safety.
Check out our comparison video below…
When it comes to engine performance, the Ford Edge leads the pack. With three available engines, it produces 305 horsepower and 280 foot-pounds of torque. Falling behind is the Chevrolet Traverse’s engine producing 281 horsepower and 266 foot pounds of torque. The Nissan Murano came up short with only 260 horsepower and 240 foot pounds of torque.
Fuel economy is one of the most important factors to consumers when shopping for the right SUV. The Edge beats the competition with a combined 22 miles per gallon. The Nissan Murano came in with 20 miles per gallon and the Chevrolet Traverse slumped in with 19 miles per gallon.
A review from USA TODAY reads: “the Edge was stylish inside and out with an attractive sporty, driver-focused dash design.” While Edmunds.com says “it features a modern-looking interior.”
Although reviewers like the pleasing interior design of the Nissan Murano, Kelly Blue book says Rear passengers may find it difficult to get comfortable.
As for the Chevrolet Traverse… Cars.com says “Both rows in the Traverse sit too close to the floor, which leaves adults’ knees raised.” That leaves the Chevy in an uncomfortable position.
Vehicle technology plays and important role when deciding which SUV to buy. The Ford EDGE comes standard with SYNC and available MyFord Touch. The Traverse comes with Chevrolet MyLink enabling smartphone integration as well as streaming of Pandora and Stitcher internet-based entertainment.
Both the Ford Edge and Chevy Traverse were named a Top Safety Pick of 2013 from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The Nissan Murano received only MARGINAL ratings for rollover testing from the IIHS.
A final note from U.S. News and World Report voted the Ford EDGE the 2013 best 2-Row Midsize SUV for the Money. So when you’re ready for your test drive, take the quick drive down I-45 and exit Louetta Rd to Randall Reed’s Planet Ford in Spring, TX.