The 2023 Ford Edge and Ford Explorer might both be midsize crossovers, but they’re meant for totally different kinds of drivers. Our side-by-side comparison is here to show you which model gives you the best fuel economy, which has the most passenger space, and which treats you to the best features lineup. Let’s dig in.
Key Takeaways
- The Explorer gives you more passenger space, but the Edge offers a bigger cargo hold.
- The Edge comes standard with the newer version of Ford’s infotainment system, while the Explorer has yet to upgrade. Both crossovers come standard with an impressive list of safety aids.
- Both models deliver sporty power, but only the Edge comes standard with all-wheel drive.
- For the thriftiest ride, check out the Explorer’s hybrid powertrain.
- These Ford crossovers have similar MSRPs. The Explorer starts at $36,760 and the Edge starts at $37,945.
Interior Space & Comfort
The Explorer is a three-row crossover, which means it offers room for up to seven passengers (or six if you choose second-row captain’s chairs). Inside the Edge, you’ll find space for up to five passengers, because it’s a two-row crossover.
The Edge has the roomier cargo hold, however, with 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats. With the Explorer, you can fill 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space with your family gear.
Both crossovers will impress you with their comfy cabins. Standard features, like dual-zone automatic climate control (or tri-zone automatic climate control in the Explorer) and nicely cushioned cloth seats. And each of these Fords offers a variety of trim models, which deliver lots of comfort upgrades. For example, you can upgrade either model to include leather seating or heated and ventilated front seats.
Tech & Safety Features
Both Ford crossovers come standard with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety aids, with blind-spot warning and forward collision mitigation. You also get lane-keeping assist as an added bonus! And you can add the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package for a little extra help avoiding danger. This package includes adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist technology.
There is one notable difference between these two crossovers’ tech lineups, however. The Edge features the newer SYNC 4 infotainment system, which comes standard with a 12-inch touchscreen and the wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. With the Explorer, you get the SYNC 3 system, with the wired versions of this smartphone integration technology and an 8-inch touchscreen (though a 10.1-inch touchscreen is optional).
Power & Performance
Both of these Ford crossovers are known for their punchy power. The 2023 Edge doesn’t come standard with as much power than the Explorer, but it does give you standard all-wheel drive. And that means every Edge will feel right at home on light trails and icy roads. And if you want an Edge that delivers a sportier ride — with a 335-horsepower V6 and a sport-tuned suspension — then check out the ST trim model.
The 2023 Explorer, meanwhile, comes with a stronger turbocharged engine and a unique rear-wheel-drive platform. Whereas most midsize crossovers are front-wheel-drive models, the Explorer’s rear-wheel-drive setup makes for sportier handling and stronger towing capabilities. The Explorer also offers two optional engines, depending on which trim model you select.
The 2023 Edge’s powertrain specs include:
- Standard turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque) and eight-speed automatic transmission
- ST models: turbo 2.7L V6 (335 hp, 380 lb-ft) and seven-speed automatic
- All-wheel drive
- 5,000 lbs max towing
The 2023 Explorer’s powertrain specs include:
- Standard turbo 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- ST, King Ranch: turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- Standard for Platinum, optional for Limited: 3.3L hybrid V6 (318 hp, 322 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
- 5,600 lbs max towing
Fuel Economy
If you’re after a thriftier ride, consider the Explorer with the hybrid V6 powertrain. With it, this three-row crossover earns up to 27 mpg combined (27 city/28 highway).
The 2023 Edge reaches its top EPA ratings with its standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine, earning up to 23 mpg combined (21 city/28 highway).
MSRP
These Ford crossover SUVs have very similar MSRPs, so price is unlikely to be a big factor in your decision. The three-row 2023 Explorer starts at $36,760, and the all-wheel-drive 2023 Edge starts at $37,945. Both go up in luxury and price as you move up the trim levels.
Your Midsize Crossover SUV
So, what kind of driver are you? If you need three rows of seating or maximum fuel economy, the 2023 Ford Explorer is the more attractive option. On the other hand, if you’re after an increasingly trail-friendly performance with standard all-wheel drive or maximum cargo space, the 2023 Ford Edge will be more your type.