The Ford Escape and the Ford Edge: Which Used SUV is Right for You?

It’s easy to get a little lost when looking for a used Ford for sale near Colonie—especially if you’re looking for an SUV. Over the years, Ford’s SUV lineup has changed regularly. If it’s been a while since you’ve shopped for a used Ford, you might wonder what the difference between all the different models can be. If you’re confused about the differences between the Ford Escape and Ford Edge, we completely understand. We’d like to take the opportunity to clarify some of the variations between the two models to help you in your search for a new-to-you vehicle that meets all of your needs and fits your budget.

The Ford Escape has been on the roads since 2001, and the Ford Edge has been in production since the 2007 model year. Many things have been updated and upgraded since then, so capturing all of the differences and changes would be difficult. We’re happy to help guide you on your used Ford quest, but for now, take a look at some of the recent Escape and Edge models to get a feel for which best meets your lifestyle.

A Brief Overview of the Ford Escape and Ford Edge

The biggest difference between the Ford Escape and the Ford Edge is size. Both have more than enough room for your favorite passengers, with seating for up to five, along with abundant cargo space. While the actual dimensions of the Escape and Edge have changed over the years, you can take a look at the 2024 model measurements to give you an idea of how they differ from each other. After all—2024 models are starting to find their way onto the used lots already.

With that in mind, the 2024 Escape is designed with a wheelbase measuring 106.7 inches. With the rear seats folded, it provides 65.4 cu.ft. of cargo space. Front passengers can enjoy up to 42.4 inches of legroom, while the Escape’s unique sliding second row increases rear passenger comfort as well. The Edge is the larger vehicle. With its 112.2-inch wheelbase, the cargo space reaches a maximum of 73.4 cu.ft. once the second-row seats have been stowed. If bountiful trips are in your future, the Edge offers roomier accommodations for your cargo and your crew.

Which is More Powerful: The Ford Escape or the Ford Edge?

Again, that mostly depends on the year and trim you’re comparing, but the Ford Edge generally wins this category. For the past several years, the Ford Escape has been offered with two available engines. The first is a standard 1.5L EcoBoost inline-3 version. Despite its seemingly small size, this engine provides a very enjoyable 180 hp and over 190 lb-ft of torque, depending on the model year. Drivers can find both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models equipped with this engine.

A 2.0L EcoBoost inline-4 has been historically offered on higher trim levels. With standard and exclusive all-wheel drive capability, this engine is ready to conquer the carpool with 250 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Depending on the engine and drivetrain, most Escape models can be equipped to tow between 1,500 and 3,500 pounds.

As a larger vehicle, the Ford Edge comes with more power. In recent years, most models have come equipped with a turbocharged 2.0L EcoBoost inline-4 engine. Providing 250 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, this engine will take on Colonie roads with pure hustle. But for those who long for more power, the Ford Edge ST offers the thrill of 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque that can only come from Ford’s performance-driven twin-turbocharged 2.7L EcoBoost V6.

What Kind of Trims and Features Do the Escape and Edge Offer?

Technology in the automotive industry is changing every model year. For example, the safety and driver assistance features we appreciate in the Ford Co-Pilot 360 package have not always been standard or as abundant. Additionally, the Escape and Edge have seen a few changes to the lineup over the years. Notably, the Escape once had a Titanium model that is now known as the Platinum model. Additionally, the Escape ST-Line model joined the lineup in 2023.

The Ford Edge, on the other hand, has maintained a stable lineup over the past several years, focusing on the SE, SEL, Titanium, and ST trims. The Edge also offers an ST-Line model. Designed to allow drivers to enjoy the sporty persona of the ST– which stands for “Sport Technologies,” without the great responsibility of a 335 hp engine.

Currently, Ford Escape models sport an available 13.2-inch infotainment touchscreen, while Ford Edge models wear a standard 12-inch version, but this hasn’t always been the case. Going back to 2020, 4.2-inch and 8-inch versions were more commonplace, and Ford has added more and more to the overall comfort and convenience of each vehicle’s cabin. That being said, with the many options and available packages offered by Ford, it might not be very hard to locate all of the features you crave in a used vehicle within your budget.

What Makes Them Unique?

While their size, engine, and trim levels are the most obvious differences between the Ford Escape and the Ford Edge, there are a few surprises offered by each model. The Ford Escape can be found in both gas-powered and hybrid styles. Since 2020, Ford has produced Escape models with the option of a plug-in hybrid or a mild hybrid setup. For the 2024 model year, that includes a 192-horsepower traditional hybrid engine with an impressive combined fuel economy of 39 MPG. Those who are ready to dive deeper into electric driving can choose the plug-in hybrid with a combined 210 hp and 40 MPG of combined fuel economy.

The Ford Edge, on the other hand, has no electrified equivalent. In fact, Ford has confirmed that 2024 will be the last year of production for the Edge as we know it. That being said, the 2024 Edge is unique in that it is offered exclusively in all-wheel drive—front-wheel drive is not an option.

Which Ford SUV is for You?

The beauty of having to choose between the Escape and the Edge is that no matter what decisions you make, you go home with a Ford. That means driving home with the knowledge that you have chosen a vehicle that has been carefully developed over many years to provide you with all of the equipment and features that match your life and drivestyle.

The Ford Escape is smaller, offers more engine options, and has continued to develop and grow over the years. On the other hand, the Ford Edge is larger and provides an impressive level of room for passengers and cargo alike. That being said, it is sadly no longer in production but lives on in the used market. There are very few things in this world that are guaranteed, but Ford’s SUV lineup remains a certainty. Though the lineup and its features may change, history tells us that there will always be a Ford SUV to carry us through in the iconic brand’s extensive lineup.