Shoppers in the midsize SUV market frequently assess the Ford Edge for its smooth ride and spacious cabin. If you’re asking yourself, “is ford edge a good car,” you’re in the right place. This comprehensive review will break down everything you need to know, from performance and comfort to reliability and value.
We’ll look at its strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if it’s the right SUV for your family or daily commute. Let’s get started with a detailed examination.
Is Ford Edge A Good Car
Overall, the Ford Edge is a very good car for the right buyer. It excels as a comfortable, quiet, and practical daily driver with plenty of space for people and cargo. It’s not the sportiest or most fuel-efficient option in its class, but it offers a compelling blend of attributes that many find just right.
Think of it as a sensible, well-rounded choice rather than an exciting one. For those prioritizing a serene cabin, straightforward technology, and confident highway manners, the Edge deserves a close look. Its recent discontinuation after the 2023 model year also means there are potential deals to be found on new remaining inventory and a strong used market.
Key Strengths Of The Ford Edge
- A remarkably quiet and comfortable ride quality.
- Spacious front and rear seating with ample legroom.
- A large, usable cargo area with a low lift-over height.
- Available potent V6 engine option (ST and ST-Line).
- Simple, user-friendly SYNC infotainment system.
- Strong safety scores and available driver-assist features.
Potential Drawbacks To Consider
- Fuel economy lags behind some turbocharged four-cylinder rivals.
- The base engine can feel underpowered when fully loaded.
- Interior materials are nice but not class-leading in luxury.
- No hybrid or plug-in variant was ever offered.
- Some competitors offer more engaging handling dynamics.
- FWD with 2.0L EcoBoost: 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
- AWD with 2.0L EcoBoost: 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway
- AWD with 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (ST): 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection.
- Blind Spot Monitoring with Cross-Traffic Alert.
- Lane Keeping Assist.
- Auto High-Beam Headlights.
- Available adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality.
- SE: The base model, well-equipped with dual-zone climate control and an 8-inch touchscreen.
- SEL: Added more convenience features like heated front seats and a power liftgate.
- Titanium: The luxury-focused trim with leather upholstery, upgraded audio, and more tech.
- ST-Line: Offered the sporty look of the ST with the standard 2.0L engine, a great balance.
- ST: The performance flagship with the 2.7L V6, sport-tuned suspension, and unique styling.
- A comfortable, quiet, and stress-free commuting experience.
- Needing ample space for a family of five and their gear.
- Prefering straightforward, easy-to-use technology over overly complex systems.
- Finding a good value on a capable, well-equipped used or new leftover SUV.
Comfort And Ride Quality
The Ford Edge’s standout feature is its superb ride comfort. Engineers tuned the suspension to absorb bumps and road imperfections effectively, making long highway journeys a relaxed experience. The cabin is also exceptionally well-insulated from wind and road noise.
This focus on comfort extends to the seats, which are broad and supportive. Both front and rear passengers will appreciate the generous space. The rear seats recline and slide, allowing you to prioritize either legroom or cargo space as needed.
Seating And Interior Space
With space for five, the Edge offers more rear-seat legroom than many key competitors like the Honda Passport or Nissan Murano. The flat floor in the back is a bonus for the middle passenger. Headroom is plentiful even with the available panoramic sunroof.
Cargo Capacity And Utility
Behind the rear seats, you get 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold the 60/40-split seats down, and that expands to a massive 73.4 cubic feet. The shape of the cargo bay is boxy and practical, making it easy to load groceries, suitcases, or even furniture from places like Ikea.
Performance And Engine Options
The Ford Edge typically offered two main engine choices in recent model years, catering to different priorities. Your driving experience will vary significantly based on which one you choose.
The standard engine in most trims was a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. It produces around 250 horsepower. While adequate for daily use, it can feel strained during aggressive acceleration or when carrying a full load of passengers and gear.
The performance option is a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 found in the Edge ST and ST-Line models. This engine delivers a robust 335 horsepower, transforming the Edge into a quick SUV. The trade-off is lower fuel economy and a higher price tag.
Fuel Economy Estimates
Fuel efficiency is not the Edge’s strongest suit, especially compared to rivals using newer hybrid tech. Here are typical EPA estimates:
Technology And Infotainment
Ford’s SYNC 3 system is the heart of the Edge’s tech. It’s praised for its simple menu structure, responsive touchscreen, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The physical knobs for volume and tuning are a welcome touch for easy use while driving.
Available features included a 12-speaker B&O sound system, wireless phone charging, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The digital gauge cluster on higher trims was also clear and configurable.
Driver Assistance And Safety
Ford Co-Pilot360 was standard or widely available, bundling important safety tech:
The Edge consistently earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, which is a crucial factor for families.
Reliability And Ownership Costs
When considering if the Ford Edge is a good car, long-term reliability is key. Overall, the Edge has a average to slightly above-average reliability record according to major outlets like Consumer Reports. Some model years are better than others.
Common issues to research for specific years include minor electrical gremlins, concerns with the power liftgate mechanism, and for earlier models, potential coolant intrusion issues with certain engines. A thorough pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is always recommended for a used Edge.
Maintenance And Repair Costs
Routine maintenance costs are in line with other domestic midsize SUVs. Parts are readily available, and most mechanics are familiar with Ford vehicles. The turbocharged engines do require more precise care, such as using the correct oil and adhering strictly to service intervals.
Trim Levels And Value
The Edge was offered in several trims, each catering to different needs and budgets. Understanding these helps you find the best value.
For most buyers, the SEL or ST-Line trims often present the sweet spot of features and price. The Titanium is worth it if you desire a more premium feel without the sporty edge of the ST.
How It Compares To Key Rivals
To truly answer “is ford edge a good car,” we must see how it stacks up against the competition.
Ford Edge vs. Honda Passport
The Passport offers similar space and standard V6 power but with a more rugged aesthetic and slightly more engaging drive. The Edge counters with a quieter, more refined cabin and often a lower price point. The Passport may have a slight edge in perceived reliability.
Ford Edge vs. Hyundai Santa Fe
The Santa Fe, especially in its newer generations, offers more standard safety features, available hybrid powertrains, and often more warranty coverage. The Edge typically provides a more powerful base engine and a slightly larger cargo hold. The Santa Fe’s value proposition is very strong.
Ford Edge vs. Nissan Murano
Both prioritize comfort, but the Murano’s ride is even plusher and its interior more avant-garde. The Edge feels more substantial to drive and offers greater cargo versatility. The Murano’s continuously variable transmission (CVT) can be a deal-breaker for some drivers compared to the Edge’s traditional automatic.
Who Is The Ford Edge Best For?
The Ford Edge is an excellent choice for a specific set of buyers. You will likely be very happy with an Edge if your priorities are:
You might want to look elsewhere if you prioritize maximum fuel economy, desire a third row of seats, or want the most engaging SUV to drive on twisty roads.
Final Verdict
So, is the Ford Edge a good car? The answer is a resounding yes for the right driver. It delivers core competencies—comfort, space, and quietness—at a high level. While it may not lead in every single category, its balanced approach makes it a compelling and sensible package.
Its recent discontinuation doesn’t diminish its qualities; it simply means you should act thoughtfully. For a comfortable, capable, and spacious midsize SUV that excels as a daily driver, the Ford Edge remains a very solid choice worth serious consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Ford Edge A Reliable Vehicle?
The Ford Edge has generally average to good reliability. Some model years have fewer problems than others, so it’s important to check specific year ratings. Proper maintenance is key to longevity with any modern vehicle, especially those with turbocharged engines.
What Are The Common Problems With Ford Edge?
Reported issues can include minor electrical problems with door sensors or the infotainment system, power liftgate struts wearing out, and for 2015-2018 models with the 2.0L engine, a potential coolant leak issue. Always get a vehicle history report and a pre-purchase inspection.
Is The Ford Edge Good On Gas?
Fuel economy is acceptable but not class-leading. Expect low 20s in combined driving with the 2.0L engine. The V6 in the ST model will be less efficient. If fuel efficiency is your top priority, you may want to consider a hybrid SUV from another brand.
Is The Ford Edge Being Discontinued?
Yes, Ford ended production of the Edge after the 2023 model year. This affects the new car market, but there will be a plentiful supply of used models for years to come. It can also lead to good deals on remaining new inventory.
How Much Should I Pay For A Used Ford Edge?
Prices vary widely based on year, trim, mileage, and condition. A well-kept 2020 SEL might range from $25,000 to $30,000, while an older model with higher mileage could be under $15,000. Use online valuation tools and compare local listings to find a fair market price.