Ford Edge vs Escape: Choosing Your Perfect Ford Crossover for 2024
When looking for a new SUV in Ford's lineup, it's hard to miss the Ford Edge and the Ford Escape. These are two of the most popular SUVs in their segment, offering a blend of practicality, style, and tech. While they share some family traits, they are different in many ways - from size to performance and everything in between. If you're in the market to find out which is better for your lifestyle, you're in the right place.
Let's dive in to help you make an informed decision between the 2024 Ford Edge and the 2024 Ford Escape.
A Quick Overview
Before we get into all the nitty-gritty details of comparing the Edge and Escape, it’s essential to know what these models bring to the table.
Ford Edge
The Ford Edge is a mid-size SUV that’s been around since 2007. It offers a bigger frame compared to the Escape, providing more interior space and a powerful lineup of engines. It’s known for its balanced ride and straightforward controls.
Ford Escape
The Ford Escape is a compact SUV that has been a solid competitor since its launch in 2000. The Escape is a smaller, more agile SUV compared to the Edge and has been redesigned in recent years to provide a sleeker look and an array of advanced tech features.
Performance Comparison
Engine Choices & Power
When comparing the two SUVs, one of the most important factors to consider is how they perform on the road. Let’s take a look at what’s under the hood.
Ford Edge Engine Options
- 2.0L EcoBoost I4 Engine - Delivers 250 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. It provides ample power for day-to-day driving but also offers an impressive fuel economy for a mid-size SUV.
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6 Engine (ST Model) - With 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, this V6 makes the Edge ST feel sportier and more dynamic. It’s quick on its feet and offers a fun driving experience.
Ford Escape Engine Options
- 1.5L EcoBoost I3 Engine - Produces 180 hp and 199 lb-ft of torque. This engine is all about balancing performance with efficiency, making it great for urban drivers.
- 2.0L EcoBoost I4 Engine - Churns out 250 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, offering a similar power to the Edge’s base engine, but in a smaller package.
- 2.5L Atkinson-Cycle Hybrid Engine - The hybrid option makes 200 hp and focuses primarily on fuel efficiency, which is great for environmentally conscious drivers.
Edge Drawback: With its larger frame and weight, the Ford Edge can feel a bit less agile compared to the smaller Escape. The fuel economy also takes a hit, especially with the V6 engine option.
Escape Drawback: The Escape’s smaller engines might feel less powerful, especially when you’re hauling cargo or passengers. The base engine can sometimes feel underwhelming if you need quick acceleration on highways.
Interior & Comfort
Cabin Space
Ford Edge Interior
The Edge offers a more spacious cabin compared to the Escape. Passengers in both the front and back get ample room to stretch out, and the higher driving position gives a commanding view of the road. With up to 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, it provides solid storage capacity for weekend getaways or family road trips.
Ford Escape Interior
The Escape's cabin feels more cozy and compact. While not as spacious as the Edge, it still offers 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which is impressive for its class. Plus, it’s designed with a focus on driver comfort and ease of use. The seating might be a bit snug for taller passengers in the back, but it's a practical daily driver for small families or singles.
Edge Drawback: While the interior is roomy, the Edge can feel a little less refined compared to other mid-size SUVs in the segment. The materials and design are more functional than luxurious.
Escape Drawback: While the compact dimensions are great for city driving, some may find the interior too compact for long trips or when needing to haul larger items. Taller passengers in the rear may feel a bit cramped on legroom.
Technology & Features
Both SUVs come with Ford's SYNC 4 infotainment system, which is intuitive and user-friendly. Let’s break down what makes the tech in these models stand out.
Ford Edge Tech Highlights
- 12-inch Touchscreen: Offers a bigger and easier-to-navigate display.
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Wireless connectivity as standard.
- Ford Co-Pilot360: Standard on all models, including safety features like lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and pre-collision assist.
Ford Escape Tech Highlights
- 8-inch Touchscreen: Slightly smaller than the Edge’s screen but still clear and functional.
- Ford Co-Pilot360: Also standard but with an optional package to include advanced features like adaptive cruise control and active park assist.
- Head-Up Display: Available on higher trims, projecting key information onto the windshield.
Driving Experience
How They Feel On The Road
Ford Edge
The Edge is designed to offer a smooth and comfortable ride. Its independent front and rear suspension handle bumps well, and the cabin remains quiet even at highway speeds. The Edge ST adds a bit more sportiness to the ride, with firmer suspension and more responsive steering.
Ford Escape
The Escape is more nimble and fun to drive around town. Its smaller frame allows for tighter handling, and it feels more agile when making sharp turns or parking in small spots. The hybrid option also adds a smooth and quiet driving experience, especially at low speeds.
Edge Drawback: Some drivers find the Edge’s ride to be a bit “floaty,” especially when compared to more car-like crossovers. The sporty Edge ST can feel stiffer, but it sacrifices some comfort for performance.
Escape Drawback: The base engine can feel less powerful when loaded with passengers or cargo, which could make highway merges or passing situations more challenging.
Fuel Economy & Pricing
Gas Mileage
Ford Edge Fuel Economy
- 2.0L Engine: Around 21 MPG city / 29 MPG highway.
- 2.7L V6 Engine: About 19 MPG city / 25 MPG highway.
Ford Escape Fuel Economy
- 1.5L Engine: Approximately 27 MPG city / 34 MPG highway.
- 2.0L Engine: Around 23 MPG city / 31 MPG highway.
- Hybrid: Roughly 44 MPG city / 37 MPG highway, making it an attractive choice for fuel savings.
Pricing Overview
- Ford Edge: Starts around $39,000 for the base model and goes up to $47,000+ for the Edge ST.
- Ford Escape: Starts at approximately $28,000 for the base trim, with higher trims reaching around $37,000.
Edge Drawback: While the larger engine options offer more power, the fuel economy takes a dip, especially if you’re opting for the V6.
Escape Drawback: The lower price comes with less power and less interior space compared to the Edge. Also, to get the most advanced tech and safety features, you'll need to pay for a higher trim or additional packages.
Safety & Reliability
Ford has done well in making both SUVs safe and reliable options for families. The Edge and Escape both come standard with Ford's Co-Pilot360, which adds a suite of driver-assist technologies aimed at keeping you safe on the road.
Safety Features Comparison
- Standard Safety: Both models include lane-keeping assist, pre-collision braking, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.
- Additional Options: Higher trims and packages offer features like adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and lane-centering technologies.
Edge Drawback: Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, and there's a bit more body roll during high-speed cornering compared to more sporty competitors.
Escape Drawback: The compact design can feel a bit unstable during high-speed driving, especially on uneven surfaces. However, it’s not a major concern for typical day-to-day use.
Alex Collantes’ Personal Take
According to Alex Collantes, an automotive enthusiast and owner of both the Edge and Escape, "If you're looking for more comfort and space, the Edge is an easy pick. It's great for road trips and has that extra power when you need it. But if you're after something that's easier to maneuver in the city and offers better fuel economy, the Escape is your SUV."
Collantes adds, "The Edge feels sturdy and well-planted, while the Escape is more about fun and fuel savings. If you don't need all that space, you might enjoy the more compact design of the Escape, especially if you're driving around town a lot."
Final Verdict: Which Ford SUV is Right for You?
Ultimately, both the Ford Edge and the Ford Escape are solid choices in their respective segments.
Choose the Ford Edge if:
- You need more space for passengers or cargo.
- You want a more powerful engine option like the V6 in the ST model.
- You prefer a bigger SUV with a more commanding presence on the road.
Choose the Ford Escape if:
- You’re looking for a more affordable SUV with great fuel economy.
- You prefer agile handling and a compact size that’s easy to park.
- You want hybrid options and are focused on city driving.
Both SUVs have their pros and cons, and your choice will depend on what matters most to you—whether it’s power and space or efficiency and maneuverability.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the Ford Edge have better towing capacity than the Escape? Yes, the Ford Edge can tow up to 3,500 lbs, while the Escape has a towing capacity of up to 3,500 lbs with the 2.0L EcoBoost engine but less with the base engine.
2. Is the Ford Edge more comfortable for long trips? Due to its larger cabin and smoother ride, many find the Edge more comfortable for long-distance travel compared to the Escape.
3. Which is better for city driving? The Ford Escape is better suited for city driving due to its smaller size, better fuel economy, and easier parking capabilities.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between the Ford Edge and Ford Escape comes down to your personal preferences and driving needs. Both have a lot to offer, whether you're seeking space, power, or efficiency. Take each for a test drive and see which one fits you best. Remember, it’s all about finding the right balance between what you need and what you enjoy on the road.
References:
- Personal interview with Alex Collantes