Ford Edge vs Ford Escape: A Comprehensive Comparison

Compare Ford Edge vs Escape – Ford has been manufacturing SUVs for decades now and has been consistently providing quality vehicles that cater to the needs of consumers.

Two of Ford’s most popular SUVs are the Edge and Escape. Both vehicles offer comfort, reliability, and performance that are second to none.

However, deciding which one to buy can be a daunting task. In this article, we will compare the 2023 Ford Escape vs Edge, highlighting the differences between them to help you make an informed decision.

What are the Main Difference Between a Ford Edge and a Ford Escape?

The Ford Edge and Ford Escape are both SUV models from Ford, but they cater to different market segments and have distinct characteristics. Here are the main differences between the two:

Pricing

When considering a new SUV, pricing is a crucial factor that can significantly impact your decision.

In the case of the Ford Edge and the Ford Escape, both models offer a range of trims with distinct features, catering to different budgets and preferences.

2023 Ford Edge Price:

The Ford Edge is a midsize SUV that exudes sophistication and performance. As with most vehicles, its pricing varies depending on the trim level and optional features.

The base SE trim of the Edge starts at $37,945, offering an impressive list of standard features. However, many buyers find the SEL trim more appealing, which starts at $39,345.

The SEL trim provides additional amenities, making it a popular choice among Edge enthusiasts.

For those seeking the pinnacle of performance and luxury, the top-of-the-line ST model starts at $46,485, delivering a thrilling driving experience with its powerful engine and exclusive features.

It’s worth noting that the starting price of the 2023 Ford Edge is higher than some of its direct rivals in the midsize SUV segment.

For example, competitors like the Chevrolet Blazer, Nissan Rogue, and Hyundai Tucson offer lower starting prices, making them attractive alternatives for budget-conscious consumers.

However, the Edge’s higher starting price is often justified by its premium features, spacious interior, and engaging driving dynamics.

2023 Ford Edge Price:

The Ford Escape is a compact SUV known for its versatility and efficient performance. Like the Edge, its pricing varies based on the trim level and available features.

The base S trim of the Escape starts at $27,500, providing a cost-effective entry into the Escape lineup.

However, many buyers are drawn to the hybrid option, which starts at $32,340, offering a compelling balance between fuel efficiency and performance.

If you prefer a gasoline-powered engine with added power, the turbocharged 4-cylinder option starts at $34,040, providing a more spirited driving experience.

Additionally, the Escape offers a plug-in hybrid trim, starting at $38,500, catering to eco-conscious drivers seeking all-electric driving capabilities.

When compared to its direct competitors in the compact SUV class, the pricing of the 2023 Ford Escape aligns with the market standard.

Rivals such as the Hyundai Tucson, Toyota RAV4, and Chevy Equinox offer similar starting prices, making the Escape a competitive option in this popular segment.

Read also: Ford Edge vs Chevy Traverse

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is an essential consideration for many car buyers today, as rising fuel prices and environmental concerns prompt a shift towards more efficient vehicles.

Let’s examine the fuel efficiency of the Ford Escape vs Edge to see how they stack up against each other.

The Ford Edge offers a range of engine options, including four-cylinder and six-cylinder models.

The four-cylinder variants achieve an EPA rating of up to 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.

However, it’s worth noting that certain four-cylinder configurations have a lower city fuel economy rating of 20 mpg.

For those seeking a sportier driving experience with the Edge ST model, the fuel efficiency does take a slight hit, with an EPA rating of 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

During testing, the four-cylinder ST-Line model achieved 24 mpg on a 75-mph fuel-economy loop, while the six-cylinder ST model matched its estimated 25 mpg in the same test.

Overall, the Ford Edge offers a respectable fuel economy for a midsize SUV, with the four-cylinder models providing better efficiency for daily commuting and highway driving.

While the Ford Escape impresses with its fuel-efficient options, catering to environmentally conscious drivers and those looking to save on fuel costs.

The turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder model with front-wheel drive stands out as the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid Escape, achieving an impressive EPA rating of 27 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 30 mpg combined.

When equipped with all-wheel drive, the fuel economy remains competitive, with ratings of 26 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined.

During testing, an all-wheel-drive Escape with a turbo three-cylinder engine achieved an impressive 35 mpg during a 75-mph highway fuel economy route.

For those who desire more power and capability, the larger turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder with all-wheel drive still provides respectable fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 23 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined.

However, during testing, this model outperformed expectations, achieving a commendable 32 mpg on the highway.

For the most fuel-efficient option within the Escape lineup, the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) model stands out, offering EPA fuel economy ratings as high as 44 mpg in the city.

During highway fuel economy testing, the Escape PHEV returned an impressive 36 MPGe, showcasing its ability to offer excellent efficiency and reduced emissions.

Dimensions

When it comes to choosing an SUV, dimensions play a crucial role in determining how well the vehicle accommodates passengers and cargo.

Is the Ford Edge bigger than the Ford Escape? Let’s compare the dimensions of the Edge vs Escape to understand how they differ in size and interior space.

Ford Edge Dimensions:

The 2023 Ford Edge measures 188.8 inches in length, giving it a commanding presence on the road. The width of the Edge is 85.8 inches, which includes the side mirrors. If you exclude the mirrors, the width is 75.9 inches, making it easier to navigate in tight spaces.

The height of the Ford Edge stands at 68.3 inches, providing a commanding driving position and ample headroom. The distance between the front and rear wheels, known as the wheelbase, measures 112.2 inches, contributing to stability and ride comfort.

With all seats in place, the Edge offers 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space. But if you fold the rear seats, you can expand the cargo capacity to a maximum of 73.4 cubic feet, providing generous room for transporting larger items.

The Ford Edge has a curb weight of approximately 4,122 pounds, contributing to its stable handling and ride quality. It can tow up to 3,500 pounds, making it suitable for hauling trailers and small boats.

Front Seat Dimensions:

The front seating area of the Edge offers generous dimensions to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for occupants of all heights.

The headroom measures 40.2 inches, providing ample space above the heads of the front seat passengers.

For legroom, there is a generous 42.6 inches, allowing for plenty of space to stretch out and have comfortable journeys even on long drives.

The shoulder room is 60.3 inches, providing a spacious cabin that allows both the driver and front passenger to sit comfortably without feeling cramped.

Moreover, the front hip room measures 55.9 inches, which means there is sufficient space for the hips of the occupants, contributing to a more relaxed and enjoyable driving experience overall.

Rear Seat Dimensions:

The rear seats of the Edge offer generous dimensions, providing comfort and space for passengers in the back.

The headroom measures 40.3 inches, ensuring that even taller individuals can sit comfortably without feeling cramped.

Additionally, the rear legroom spans 40.6 inches, allowing passengers to stretch their legs and remain at ease, especially during longer journeys.

The rear shoulder room is a spacious 60.5 inches, ensuring ample space for rear-seat occupants to sit comfortably without feeling crowded.

Furthermore, the rear hip room measures 57.5 inches, providing sufficient space for passengers’ hips, contributing to their overall comfort.

To add to the versatility of the rear seats, they come equipped with a split-folding function, allowing for various configurations to accommodate both passengers and cargo.

This feature enables the Edge to adapt to different needs, making it suitable for various situations, whether it’s carrying more passengers or transporting larger items.

Passengers in the rear can also enjoy added comfort during their journey as the rear seats are reclinable.

This feature allows them to adjust their seating position according to their preference, enhancing their overall travel experience.

Additionally, for added convenience, a folding center armrest is provided in the rear seats. This armrest serves as a practical feature for passengers, allowing them to rest their arms or hold beverages during the ride.

Overall, the rear seat dimensions and features of the Edge make it a comfortable and adaptable vehicle for both passengers and cargo, making it a suitable choice for various transportation needs.

Read also: Ford Explorer vs Lincoln Corsair

Ford Escape Dimensions:

The 2023 Ford Escape is a more compact SUV compared to the Edge, making it easier to maneuver and providing a slightly lower driving position.

Its agile wheelbase and relatively light curb weight contribute to nimble handling and good fuel efficiency.

Additionally, the Escape offers ample cargo space, especially when the rear seats are folded down, making it suitable for various transportation needs.

Front Seat Dimensions:

The front seats of the Escape offer ample space and comfort for both the driver and the front passenger.

The headroom measures 40.0 inches, providing sufficient vertical space for occupants of varying heights, ensuring they won’t feel cramped or restricted.

To add to the comfort, the front legroom spans 42.4 inches, allowing the driver and front passenger to stretch their legs and maintain a relaxed driving experience even during longer trips.

The Escape’s front cabin is designed to offer a cozy and accommodating environment with 57.6 inches of shoulder room.

This generous shoulder space ensures that both the driver and front passenger can sit comfortably without feeling squeezed together.

Moreover, the front hip room measures 55.2 inches, providing ample space for the hips of the driver and front passenger.

This feature contributes to a comfortable seating position and helps reduce any discomfort that may arise from tight seating arrangements.

Overall, the front seat dimensions of the Escape make it a comfortable and enjoyable vehicle to drive or ride in, providing ample space for various body types and ensuring a pleasant driving experience for both the driver and the front passenger.

Rear Seat Dimensions:

The rear seats of the Escape are designed to provide comfort and adequate space for passengers in the back.

The headroom measures 39.3 inches, ensuring that even taller passengers can sit comfortably without feeling constrained or cramped.

For legroom, the rear seats offer 40.7 inches, providing enough space for rear-seat passengers to stretch their legs and remain comfortable during their journey.

The rear shoulder room is measured at 56.0 inches, allowing ample space for rear occupants to sit without feeling crowded or restricted.

Furthermore, the rear hip room measures 53.3 inches, providing enough hip space for passengers in the rear seats to sit comfortably.

To enhance the versatility of the Escape’s rear seating area, the rear seats are equipped with a split-folding function.

This feature allows for flexible configurations, enabling passengers to adjust the seating layout to accommodate both passengers and cargo as needed.

Additionally, a folding center armrest is provided in the rear seats for added comfort. Passengers in the back can use this armrest to rest their arms or hold beverages during the journey, enhancing their overall comfort.

In conclusion, the Ford Edge and Ford Escape sizes cater to different preferences and needs, as reflected in their dimensions.

The Edge offers a larger, more spacious interior, making it suitable for families and those who require ample cargo space.

On the other hand, the Escape’s more compact dimensions and agile handling make it an ideal choice for city driving and maneuvering through tight spaces.

When compared to the others, which is bigger Ford Edge or Ford Explorer? Ford Explorer is bigger than Ford Edge.

The Explorer is a three-row SUV that seats up to seven people, while the Edge is a two-row SUV that seats up to five people. Explorer is also longer, wider, and taller than Edge.

Read also: Ford Escape vs Hyundai Tucson

Colors

– Interior Colors

The interior colors of a vehicle play a significant role in enhancing the overall look and feel of the cabin, adding a touch of personalization and style.

Let’s explore the interior color options available for the Ford Edge and Ford Escape in 2023:

Ford Edge:

• Dune, Leatherette: The Dune interior color option features a sophisticated light beige tone, creating an elegant and airy atmosphere within the cabin. The leatherette material adds a touch of luxury and comfort to the seats, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a refined driving experience.

• Ebony, Leatherette: The Ebony interior color offers a classic and timeless look with its deep black hue. Combined with the leatherette material, it adds a sense of modernity and sophistication to the interior, making it an excellent option for drivers who prefer a sleek and polished cabin ambiance.

• Ebony, Premium Cloth: The Ebony interior color with premium cloth upholstery combines the elegance of black with the comfort of high-quality fabric. It strikes a balance between style and practicality, appealing to drivers who seek a comfortable and visually appealing interior.

• Dune, Premium Cloth: The Dune interior color with premium cloth offers a warm and inviting atmosphere within the cabin. The light beige hue complements the fabric upholstery, providing a comfortable and cozy interior for occupants.

• Navy Pier w/Orange Stitching, Leatherette: The Navy Pier interior color option with leatherette upholstery adds a unique touch to the Edge’s cabin. The navy blue shade, accented by contrasting orange stitching, offers a sporty and youthful feel, appealing to drivers who prefer a bold and dynamic interior design.

Ford Escape:

• Ebony, Premium Cloth: The Ebony interior color with premium cloth upholstery features a sleek and modern black tone, providing a clean and polished look to the Escape’s cabin. It suits drivers who appreciate a timeless and versatile interior design.

• Space Gray, Premium Cloth: The Space Gray interior color option with premium cloth upholstery adds a touch of sophistication and contemporary flair to the Escape’s cabin. The gray hue offers a neutral and calming ambiance, appealing to drivers who desire a refined and modern interior.

The interior color options for the Ford Edge and Escape offer a range of choices to cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

Whether you prefer a classic and luxurious look, a warm and inviting atmosphere, or a sporty and bold interior, both models have options to suit your style.

– Exterior Colors

The exterior color of a vehicle is an essential aspect of its visual appeal, reflecting the owner’s personality and style.

Both the Ford Edge and Ford Escape offer a variety of exterior color options to cater to different tastes. Let’s explore the distinctive exterior colors available for each model.

Ford Edge:

• Forged Green Metallic: A unique and eye-catching green shade, Forged Green Metallic adds a touch of individuality to the Ford Edge, making it stand out on the road.

• Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat: This vibrant and bold red hue, with its metallic finish, adds a sense of sophistication and sportiness to the Edge’s exterior.

• Burgundy Velvet Metallic Tinted Clearcoat: A rich and luxurious burgundy color, this metallic tinted clearcoat option exudes elegance and refinement.

• Carbonized Gray Metallic: A modern and versatile gray hue, Carbonized Gray Metallic offers a sleek and contemporary look to the Edge.

• Agate Black Metallic: Classic and timeless, Agate Black Metallic provides a sleek and polished appearance, complementing the Edge’s design.

• Star White Metallic Tri-Coat: This stunning tri-coat option features a lustrous white hue, adding a sense of opulence and prestige to the Ford Edge.

• Atlas Blue Metallic: A deep and sophisticated blue shade, Atlas Blue Metallic imparts a sense of depth and style to the Edge’s exterior.

• Iconic Silver Metallic: An elegant and refined silver color, Iconic Silver Metallic offers a modern and upscale look to the Edge.

• Oxford White: A clean and classic white option, Oxford White enhances the Edge’s timeless design and provides a fresh and pristine appearance.

• Stone Blue Metallic: A serene and calming blue hue, Stone Blue Metallic adds a sense of tranquility and composure to the Ford Edge.

Ford Escape:

• Vapor Blue Metallic: This cool and refreshing blue shade adds a sense of vibrancy and liveliness to the Ford Escape’s exterior.

• Carbonized Gray Metallic: Similar to the Edge, Carbonized Gray Metallic offers a modern and versatile appearance to the Escape’s design.

• Cinnabar Red Metallic Premium Colorant: This premium red color option features a rich and luxurious hue, making the Escape’s exterior stand out with sophistication.

• Atlas Blue Metallic: The deep and sophisticated blue shade of Atlas Blue Metallic complements the Escape’s design with a touch of elegance.

• Oxford White: As with the Edge, Oxford White provides a clean and timeless look to the Escape’s exterior.

• Agate Black Metallic: Classic and sleek, Agate Black Metallic adds a touch of refinement and modernity to the Escape’s appearance.

• Iconic Silver Metallic: The elegant and sophisticated silver hue of Iconic Silver Metallic enhances the Escape’s design with a sense of prestige.

• Star White Metallic Tri-Coat: This luxurious tri-coat option features a brilliant white hue, adding an element of opulence to the Ford Escape.

• Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat: The bold and vibrant red shade of Rapid Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat infuses the Escape’s exterior with energy and flair.

When selecting the perfect exterior color for your Ford Edge or Ford Escape, consider how it complements the vehicle’s design and how it resonates with your personal preferences.

The exterior color is the first thing people notice about a car, so choosing the one that speaks to you will ensure that your vehicle reflects your unique personality and taste as you hit the road in style.

Read also: Ford Escape vs Mazda CX 9

Safety Features

The 2023 Ford Edge comes with several desirable driver-assistance technologies as standard features, aimed at enhancing safety on the road. These standard safety features include:

• Standard Automated Emergency Braking: This system detects potential frontal collisions and automatically applies the brakes to help avoid or mitigate an impact.

• Standard Lane-Departure Warning and Lane-Keeping Assist: The Edge monitors lane markings and alerts the driver if they unintentionally drift out of their lane. The Lane-Keeping Assist feature can also gently steer the vehicle back into the correct lane if needed.

• Standard Blind-Spot Monitoring: This technology alerts the driver when another vehicle enters the Edge’s blind spots, reducing the likelihood of potential collisions.

Additionally, the Ford Edge offers available adaptive cruise control as an optional safety feature.

Adaptive cruise control adjusts the vehicle’s speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead, providing added convenience and safety during long drives.

While the 2023 Ford Escape goes a step further by offering a suite of driver-assistance features called Co-Pilot360 as standard on every model. These standard safety features include:

• Standard Forward-Collision Warning with Automated Emergency Braking: The Escape uses sensors to detect potential frontal collisions and can automatically apply the brakes to prevent or lessen the impact.

• Standard Lane-Departure Warning with Lane-Keeping Assist: Similar to the Edge, the Escape alerts the driver if they unintentionally veer out of their lane and can assist in steering the vehicle back to the correct lane.

• Standard Blind-Spot Monitoring with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: This system warns the driver about vehicles approaching from the rear or side, reducing the risk of collisions when changing lanes or reversing.

The Ford Escape’s Co-Pilot360 suite ensures that these critical safety features are available to all buyers, promoting a safer driving experience for everyone.

As with the Ford Edge, prospective buyers can access more detailed safety information, including crash-test results, from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Warranty

Ford’s standard warranty package is relatively simple when compared to its competitors like the Hyundai Tucson and the Kia Sportage, both of which provide much longer coverage for their powertrains.

However, the hybrid and plug-in hybrid models have a specific policy tailored to their electrified powertrains, offering protection for up to 100,000 miles.

Here’s a breakdown of Ford’s warranty coverage:

• Limited warranty: Covers the vehicle for 3 years or 36,000 miles.
• Powertrain warranty: Provides coverage for the powertrain components for 5 years or 60,000 miles.
• Hybrid component warranty: This warranty is specific to the hybrid models and covers the electrified powertrain components for 8 years or 100,000 miles.

It’s worth noting that Ford does not offer complimentary scheduled maintenance as part of their standard warranty package.

Specifications

Here are the specifications for the Ford Edge and Ford Escape:

Both models come with an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The Ford Edge has a more powerful engine with a 2.0 L inline 4, producing 250 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.

On the other hand, the Ford Escape has a smaller 1.5 L inline 3 engine, generating 181 horsepower and 190 lb-ft of torque. Additionally, both engines feature double overhead cam (DOHC) and variable valve timing.

One notable difference between the two is that the Ford Escape’s engine comes with cylinder deactivation technology, which can improve fuel efficiency by temporarily deactivating one of the cylinders during light-load driving conditions.

Read also: Ford Escape vs Honda CRV

Pros and Cons

– Ford Edge

Pros:

• Plush, Well-Padded Seats: The Ford Edge offers comfortable and supportive seating, making long journeys more enjoyable for both the driver and passengers.

• Plenty of Space for Passengers and Luggage: With its spacious interior and ample cargo capacity, the Edge provides a versatile and accommodating environment for occupants and their belongings.

• Fuel-Efficient and Performance-Oriented Engines: The Edge’s engine options strike a balance between fuel efficiency and performance, catering to drivers who seek a powerful yet economical SUV.

• Quiet Cabin at Highway Speeds: The Edge boasts a well-insulated cabin, ensuring a quiet and peaceful ride on highways, reducing fatigue during long trips.

Cons:

• Interior Design and Control Layout are Dated: The Edge’s interior design and control layout may feel outdated compared to some of its rivals, lacking the modernity and sleekness found in newer models.

• Visibility Hampered by Thick Roof Pillars and Blind Spots: The Edge’s thick roof pillars and blind spots can hinder visibility, requiring extra caution during lane changes and parking maneuvers.

• Transmission Responses are a Little Slow: Some drivers may find that the Edge’s transmission responses could be more responsive, particularly during quick acceleration or passing maneuvers.

• Rides Uncomfortably Over Small Bumps and Dips: The Edge’s ride quality may be less smooth over small bumps and dips, leading to a slightly firmer and less refined driving experience.

– Ford Escape

Pros:

• Roomy and Comfortable Seating: The Ford Escape offers spacious and comfortable seating, ensuring a pleasant journey for both drivers and passengers.

• Smooth Ride Quality: The Escape provides a smooth and comfortable ride, absorbing road imperfections effectively and enhancing overall driving comfort.

• Easy-to-Use Controls: The Escape’s user-friendly controls and intuitive infotainment system make it convenient for drivers to operate various functions while driving.

• Available Hybrid Powertrain that Gets Around 40 MPG: The Escape’s available hybrid powertrain offers excellent fuel efficiency, allowing eco-conscious drivers to enjoy an estimated 40 mpg or more, reducing their carbon footprint.

Cons:

• Transmission’s Abrupt Shifts: Some drivers may find the Escape’s transmission shifts to be a bit abrupt or less smooth during certain driving conditions.

• Lackluster Handling: Compared to some competitors, the Escape’s handling may be perceived as less engaging or sporty.

Conclusion

Which is better, Ford Edge or Ford Escape? Both the Ford Edge and Ford Escape offer exceptional features and capabilities, catering to different sets of preferences and needs.

The Edge appeals to those seeking a more spacious and powerful SUV with upscale amenities, while the Escape attracts individuals prioritizing fuel efficiency and nimble handling at a more budget-friendly price point.

Ultimately, the choice between the Ford Edge vs Escape hinges on your lifestyle, driving habits, and desired features.

Read also: Ford Edge vs Toyota Highlander

FAQs

Are the Ford Edge and Escape suitable for families?

Both the Ford Edge and Escape are family-friendly SUVs, but the Edge’s larger size provides more space for passengers and cargo, making it an ideal choice for families.

Which SUV offers better fuel efficiency?

The Ford Escape, particularly its hybrid models, offers better fuel efficiency compared to the Ford Edge, making it an excellent option for those seeking a more eco-friendly ride.

Can the Ford Edge tow heavy loads?

Yes, the Ford Edge equipped with the available V6 engine boasts impressive towing capacity, making it capable of hauling heavier loads.

What safety features are available in the Ford Escape?

The Ford Escape comes with essential safety features like Ford Co-Pilot360™, including pre-collision assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping system, and automatic emergency braking.

Does the Ford Edge have an off-road capability?

The Ford Edge, with its Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, is equipped for light off-road use, providing better traction on challenging terrains.

Which SUV offers a more immersive tech experience?

The Ford Edge’s larger infotainment display and advanced SYNC® 4 system make it the winner in terms of providing a more immersive tech experience.