If you’re in the market for a two-row midsize SUV, a key question you’re likely asking is, is the ford edge a good car? The Ford Edge fills a specific niche as a midsize SUV with a focus on a comfortable ride and available power. It sits between the compact Escape and the three-row Explorer, offering a compelling blend of space, comfort, and technology for families and commuters alike.
This review will break down everything you need to know. We’ll look at its strengths, like a spacious interior and smooth ride, and its weaknesses, such as fuel economy and an aging design. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of whether the Ford Edge is the right SUV for your driveway.
Is The Ford Edge A Good Car
The short answer is yes, the Ford Edge can be a very good car, particularly for buyers who prioritize cabin comfort, straightforward technology, and a relaxed driving experience over sporty handling or hybrid efficiency. It’s not the newest or flashiest design in its class, but it executes its core mission reliably. Where it really shines is in its role as a comfortable long-distance cruiser with plenty of room for five people and their cargo.
However, “good” depends on your specific needs. If you require a third row, you’ll need to look at the Explorer or competitors like the Hyundai Santa Fe. If you want the latest in fuel-saving hybrid tech, other models might be a better fit. For many, the Edge’s balance of attributes hits a sweet spot that makes it a strong contender.
Pros And Cons Of The Ford Edge
Before we get into the details, here’s a quick overview of the Ford Edge’s main advantages and drawbacks.
Pros
- Spacious and comfortable front and rear seating
- Smooth and quiet ride quality on the highway
- Generous cargo capacity for the class
- Powerful optional 2.7L V6 engine
- User-friendly SYNC 4A infotainment system with a large touchscreen
Cons
- Fuel economy is average at best
- Interior materials feel dated compared to newer rivals
- No hybrid or plug-in hybrid powertrain option
- Handling is competent but not engaging
- The design has seen only minor updates in recent years
Performance And Engine Options
The Ford Edge offers two turbocharged engine choices, both paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available across the trim lineup.
2.0L EcoBoost Turbocharged I-4
This is the standard engine in most trims. It produces 250 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. Power delivery is adequate for daily commuting and merging onto highways, but it can feel strained when the vehicle is fully loaded. The four-cylinder prioritizes efficiency, though its real-world MPG often lags behind some competitors.
2.7L EcoBoost Twin-Turbo V6
Available on the ST-Line and standard on the performance-oriented ST trim, this engine is the Edge’s party piece. It delivers 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, providing strong acceleration and confident passing power. The V6 transforms the Edge into a quick SUV, though you will pay a penalty at the gas pump. The transmission is generally smooth, though it can sometimes hesitate during quick downshifts.
Fuel Economy Ratings
Fuel efficiency is not the Edge’s strongest suit, especially when compared to newer rivals offering turbo-hybrid systems. Here are the EPA estimates for the latest model year:
- FWD with 2.0L I-4: 21 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
- AWD with 2.0L I-4: 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
- AWD with 2.7L V6: 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
In real-world mixed driving, many owners report figures 1-3 mpg lower than these estimates. If maximizing fuel economy is a top priority, you may want to consider vehicles like the Toyota Venza Hybrid or the Ford Escape Hybrid.
Interior Comfort And Space
This is where the Ford Edge makes a strong case for itself. The cabin is notably roomy, with ample headroom and legroom in both rows. The seats are generally well-cushioned and supportive, making long journeys comfortable for all passengers.
Front Row Comfort
The driver and front passenger enjoy supportive seats with available power adjustment, heating, ventilation, and massage functions on higher trims. The driving position is commanding, with good outward visibility. Some may find the center console a bit wide, impacting knee room for larger drivers.
Rear Seat Space
The second row is genuinely spacious, easily accommodating two adults or three children. The seatbacks recline for added comfort, and there’s plenty of toe-room under the front seats. The rear seats also slide fore and aft on most trims, allowing you to prioritize either passenger legroom or cargo space.
Cargo Capacity
The Edge offers excellent utility. Behind the second row, you get 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold the 60/40-split rear seats flat, and that expands to a generous 69.1 cubic feet. The lift-over height is reasonable, and the shape of the cargo area is usefully square, making it easy to load bulky items like furniture or sports equipment.
Technology And Infotainment
Recent updates have brought the Edge’s tech up to a competitive level. The centerpiece is the SYNC 4A system, which features on most new models.
SYNC 4A System
This system is standard on higher trims and includes a large, vertically oriented 13.2-inch touchscreen. The interface is responsive and the menu logic is relatively intuitive. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a major convenience. Voice commands for navigation and audio are generally reliable, though they can sometimes mishear complex adresses.
Standard Features
Even base models come well-equipped. You can expect:
- An 8-inch touchscreen with SYNC 3
- A 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
- Multiple USB ports (both A and C)
- A comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features under Ford Co-Pilot360
Available Upgrades
Higher trims add impressive tech, including:
- A 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen premium sound system
- A fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster
- A head-up display that projects speed and navigation onto the windshield
- Enhanced parking aids with a 360-degree camera system
Safety Features And Ratings
Safety is a strong point for the Ford Edge. It comes standard with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assist technologies and has earned solid scores from major safety institutes.
Standard Ford Co-Pilot360
Every new Edge includes:
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Auto High-Beam Headlights
- A rearview camera
Available Advanced Safety Tech
Options include Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering, which can provide a semi-autonomous driving experience on highways. There’s also Evasive Steering Assist and Speed Sign Recognition.
Crash Test Scores
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the Ford Edge an overall 5-Star safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded it top marks of “Good” in most crashworthiness tests. It’s important to check the latest year-specific ratings, as they can change.
Reliability And Ownership Costs
Ownership experience is a crucial part of determining if a car is “good.” The Ford Edge has a mixed but generally acceptable record.
Predicted Reliability
Major automotive reviewers often rate the Edge’s reliability as about average for the midsize SUV class. Some earlier model years had more reported issues, so researching specific years is key. Common areas to watch include the infotainment system for occasional glitches and the power liftgate mechanism.
Maintenance And Warranty
Ford provides a standard 3-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Scheduled maintenance costs are in line with competitors, though repairs for the turbocharged engines can be more expensive than for naturally aspirated ones. Using premium fuel is recommended for the 2.7L V6 for optimal performance, adding to the running costs.
Depreciation
The Edge tends to depreciate at a rate similar to other American midsize SUVs. It holds its value reasonably well but not as strongly as some Toyota or Honda products. This can make a used or certified pre-owned Edge a very good value for a savvy shopper.
Trim Levels And Pricing
The Ford Edge is offered in several trim levels, each catering to different priorities and budgets.
SE
The base SE trim is well-equipped for the price, offering the 2.0L engine, cloth seats, and the 8-inch SYNC 3 screen. It represents a solid value for those who want the space and comfort without extra frills.
SEL
A popular mid-range choice, the SEL adds more convenience features like dual-zone automatic climate control, a power liftgate, and synthetic leather seating surfaces. It’s often considered the best value in the lineup.
ST-Line
This trim focuses on sporty aesthetics without the full performance of the ST. It includes unique exterior styling, black accents, and the more powerful 2.7L V6 engine is available as an option.
ST
The performance flagship comes standard with the 2.7L V6, sport-tuned suspension, larger brakes, and unique interior trim. It’s for the driver who wants power but doesn’t need a third row.
Titanium
The luxury-focused trim, Titanium emphasizes comfort and technology with premium leather, the large SYNC 4A screen, and advanced safety features as standard.
How It Compares To Key Competitors
To truly judge the Edge, you need to see how it stacks up against its rivals.
Ford Edge vs. Hyundai Santa Fe
The Santa Fe offers a available third row, more modern interior materials, and often a better warranty. The Edge typically provides a slightly smoother ride and more powerful optional engine choices. The Santa Fe’s hybrid option is a major advantage for many buyers.
Ford Edge vs. Nissan Murano
Both SUVs prioritize comfort over sportiness. The Murano has a more distinctive exterior design and extremely comfortable “Zero Gravity” seats. The Edge generally offers more cargo space and a more modern infotainment system. The Murano’s V6 engine is standard but less powerful than the Edge’s optional V6.
Ford Edge vs. Honda Passport
The Passport is the more adventurous choice, with standard all-wheel drive and more rugged styling cues. It has a slightly more engaging drive and superior off-road capability. The Edge fights back with a plusher ride, a more user-friendly tech interface, and often a lower starting price.
Ford Edge vs. Chevrolet Blazer
The Blazer is styled to be more coupe-like and sporty, which can compromise rear headroom and cargo space. It offers similar engine choices. The Edge is the more practical, family-focused vehicle with a boxier, more usable shape and a calmer driving demeanor.
Who Should Buy The Ford Edge?
The Ford Edge is an excellent fit for a specific type of buyer. You should seriously consider the Edge if:
- You prioritize a comfortable, quiet ride for daily commutes and road trips.
- You need ample space for five people and their gear but don’t require a third row.
- You want straightforward, modern technology without an overly complex learning curve.
- You desire available V6 power for confident towing or merging.
- You find good value in a slightly older but proven design.
You might want to look elsewhere if you need maximum fuel economy, the very latest interior design, a third row of seating, or class-leading handling dynamics. The Edge’s strengths are in its core competencies of comfort, space, and available power, and it serves those needs very well for the right person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ford Edge being discontinued?
Yes, Ford has announced that the Edge will be discontinued after the 2023 model year in North America. This means you may find good deals on remaining new inventory, and it will continue to be supported for service and parts for many years. Its departure makes way for Ford’s expanding lineup of electric vehicles.
Is the Ford Edge good in snow?
With the optional all-wheel-drive system and a set of quality winter tires, the Ford Edge performs competently in snow and slippery conditions. The AWD system can send power to the wheels with the most traction. Its ground clearance is sufficient for plowed roads and moderate snowfall, but it is not an off-road vehicle.
What are common problems with the Ford Edge?
Some model years have had recurring issues. These can include problems with the power transfer unit (PTU) in AWD models, which requires regular fluid changes, occasional electrical gremlins in the infotainment system, and earlier models had some concerns with the cooling system. Always check the specific reliability history for the model year you are considering.
Is the Ford Edge a reliable used car?
A well-maintained used Ford Edge, particularly from model years known for better reliability, can be a smart purchase. Opting for a Ford Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicle adds an extended warranty and a rigorous inspection. It’s crucial to get any used vehicle inspected by a trusted mechanic before purchase to avoid costly surprises down the road.
How much can a Ford Edge tow?
The towing capacity varies by configuration. When properly equipped with the optional Class II Trailer Tow Package and the 2.7L V6 engine, the Ford Edge can tow up to 3,500 pounds. This is enough for a small camper, a boat, or a load of ATVs. The standard 2.0L turbo-four has a lower tow rating, usually around 2,000 pounds.