Ford was set to end the production of the Edge in 2023 and replace it with a hybrid, but we have at least one more model year to enjoy this reliable and sporty crossover. But how does it compare to the legendary Ford Explorer? Both vehicles are known for the style, comfort, and utility, but cater to different buyers. Let’s go over the details of both, so you can decide which vehicle aligns with your lifestyle.
Key Takeaways:
- The Ford Edge can comfortably seat five and has two rows. The Explorer has three rows and seats seven.
- The Explorer has more trim options than the Edge and is less expensive overall.
- The Edge is more a city driver than the Explorer which is the preferred SUV for hauling cargo and offroading.
What Trim Levels Are Available From the 2024 Ford Edge?
Price is one of the more important aspects of buying a car. Both the Explorer and the Edge surely have a trim that fits your budget. Compare the starting MSRPs and trim level options below.
2024 Ford Edge:
- SE: $38,465
- SEL: $39,665
- ST Line: $43,720
- Titanium: $43,820
- ST: $47,025
2024 Ford Explorer:
- Base model: $36,860
- XLT: $38,670
- ST-Line: $46,455
- Limited: $47,520
- Timberline: $49,430
- ST: $50,105
- King Ranch: $54,625
- Platinum: $54,770
The Explorer’s base models are slightly less than the Edge’s equivalent trims, but both are affordable options for the quality.
Is the 2024 Ford Edge a Comfortable SUV?
The modern and sophisticated Edge has a snazzy exterior and lux interior that prioritizes comfort and ease for all occupants. Its striking front grille and sharp silhouette make everyone on the road stand up and take notice. The Explorer is a more work-minded utilitarian SUV—it’s design emphasizes function and durability over form.
The Edge has less seating (two-rows for five occupants) and cargo space than the Explorer, which comes out on top with more front head- and legroom for its seven passengers. If you have a large family or routinely haul cargo, this may be a dealbreaker for the Edge.
On the flip side of the coin, the narrower Edge is easier to maneuver in tight spaces, particularly parking lots. If you decide the Edge is for you, you will have that many more parking options.
What Technology does the 2024 Ford Explorer Offer?
Both the Edge and Explorer’s infotainment systems are equipped with all the most recent bells and whistles in tech. One cool Explorer feature is customizable, ambient lighting that you can sync to music, played on an elite 12-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. But its infotainment touchscreen is smaller than the Edge’s—8.0-inches to the latter's 12-inches. Both include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a Wi-Fi hotspot. There is an optional 10.1-inch screen in the Explorer's highest trims.
The Edge comes standard with two USB ports—high-end trims feature a wireless charging pad. It also comes with a six-speaker audio system, but the 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen system is available as an option.
Is the 2024 Ford Explorer Powerful?
Make no mistake—the Explorer is built for power, performance and capability and offers two engine options. For its base, a 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 engine churns out 300 ponies and 310 lb-ft of torque when bonded to RWD and a 10-speed automatic tranny. You can up the ante a bit more in higher trims with a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6, which delivers 400-horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
The 2024 Ford Edge also has two engine options but with fuel economy and city driving in mind. The Edge comes standard with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder delivering 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque and, should you upgrade to a twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6, you’ll get more bang for your buck in 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque.
Is the 2024 Ford Explorer Worth the Money?
There you have it! If budget is your concern, you may wish to consider the 2024 Ford Explorer, but if you’re looking for a compact city vehicle, get in on what is potentially the last year of the Edge. Call us here at Karl Flammer to experience both!