What’s the difference between the 2023 Ford Edge and Ford Escape? Our comparison guide helps you figure out which of these Ford crossover SUVs is best suited to your personal priorities!
Key Takeaways
- The midsize Edge (starting at $37,945) is more expensive than the compact Escape (starting at $28,000).
- The Edge is the bigger crossover SUV, with more shoulder room and greater cargo space than the Escape.
- Both Ford crossover SUVs offer a similar array of infotainment, luxury, and safety features. However, the availability of each feature can differ between the two SUVs.
- The Edge is more powerful, while the Escape is the more efficient option.
Price
The 2023 Ford Edge is the more expensive model, with a starting price of $37,945. Compared to the Escape, the midsize Edge comes standard with more comfort features and a stronger powertrain.
The 2023 Ford Escape is a compact crossover that starts at $28,000. Its lower price is certainly more budget-friendly, though it doesn’t come with as many standard features as the Edge. The compact Escape delivers better fuel economy, balancing its fuel savings with a peppy performance.
Size and Interior Space
Outside, the Edge is slightly longer than the Escape. Inside, that means more shoulder room in both rows of seating. The Edge also provides more cargo space, with 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats.
However, the Escape still offers generous space for your gym bag and shopping hauls, with 37.5 cubes behind the rear seats. And the Escape’s available head- and legroom is very similar to that of the bigger Edge.
Comfort and Convenience Features
These Ford crossovers certainly have a lot in common when it comes to interior comforts and everyday conveniences. However, the bigger Edge comes standard with a more impressive features lineup. The base SE comes with dual-zone automatic climate control, a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. As you move up the other Edge trim models (SEL, ST-Line, Titanium, and ST), you’ll find more to love, like heated seats, leather upholstery, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.
The less expensive Escape Base comes standard with the basics, like manually adjustable air conditioning and a six-speaker sound system. The standard infotainment system features an 8-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But just like with the Edge, moving up the Escape’s other trim models (Active, PHEV, ST-Line, ST-Line Select, ST-Line Elite, and Platinum) means more luxury. Available upgrades include power-adjustable front seats, a bigger 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, and heated seats.
Power and Performance
Of these two crossover SUVs, the Edge is the more powerful option. Most Edge models feature a 250-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which gets you around town in style. The performance-based Edge ST trim model is even more impressive, thanks to its exclusive turbocharged V6 and sport-tuned suspension. Every single Edge trim model comes with sporty all-wheel drive, which means this midsize crossover is ready for the trail. Its base engine helps the Edge earn its highest EPA ratings of 23 mpg combined (21 city/28 highway).
The 2023 Ford Edge is available with one of two engine options:
- Turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque) with eight-speed automatic transmission
- Turbo 2.7L V6 (335 hp, 380 lb-ft) with seven-speed automatic
- All-wheel drive
The smaller Escape also delivers a punchy performance with its available turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. However, this compact crossover puts a much bigger emphasis on fuel economy, thanks to its hybrid engine options. The regular hybrid engine earns up to 39 mpg combined (42 city/36 highway).
The 2023 Ford Escape is available with four engine options, depending on which trim model you select:
- Turbo 1.5L three-cylinder engine (180 hp, 199 lb-ft) with eight-speed automatic
- Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 280 lb-ft)
- 2.5L hybrid four-cylinder powertrain (192 hp, 155 lb-ft) with continuously variable transmission (CVT)
- 2.5L plug-in hybrid four-cylinder powertrain (210 hp, 155 lb-ft) with CVT
- Front-wheel drive
- Optional all-wheel drive
Your New Ford Crossover SUV
As you can see, each of these Ford crossovers has its own specific appeal for different kinds of drivers. The 2023 Ford Escape not only comes at a lower price, but it also maximizes your potential for fuel economy. And the 2023 Ford Edge delivers both a stronger, sportier drive and a roomier cabin! Whichever crossover best suits your priorities as a driver, you’ll enjoy a reliable performance and a smooth, refined drive.