Which is your best match, the 2024 Ford Explorer or the 2023 Ford Edge? Our comparison guide is here to help you figure out which one of Ford’s midsize SUVs your family will love best.
Key Takeaways
- Although both are midsize crossovers, the Explorer offers three rows of seating and space for seven, while the two-row Edge has seating for five.
- These Ford SUVs are both tech-savvy, but the Edge has more of the latest infotainment features.
- The Edge is impressive, but it’s the Explorer that delivers both the stronger performance and greater towing capabilities.
- Compared to the two-row Edge (from $38,465), the three-row Explorer comes at a slightly lower price (from $36,860).
Does the 2024 Ford Explorer Come With Three Rows of Seats?
Although both models are technically classified as midsize SUVs, the Explorer seats more people, with three rows of seating. Depending on whether you select the second-row bench or captain’s chairs, the Explorer can seat seven or six passengers, respectively. In the two-row Edge, there’s space for five.
Meanwhile, the Edge offers substantially more cargo space. Behind its rear seats, you can load 39.2 cubic feet of space with your shopping bags and sporting goods. The Explorer’s cargo hold is notably tighter, with 18.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats.
Does the 2024 Ford Explorer Offer Luxury Interior Features?
When it comes to interior luxury, the Explorer has more options, starting with eight available trim models where the Edge has five. Every Explorer comes standard with tri-zone automatic climate control, smartphone-friendly infotainment, and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. And things only get more stylish from there! On higher trim models, you’ll find updates like leather-wrapped interior panels, genuine wood trim, and Ford’s Active Motion massaging front seats.
The Edge never gets quite as luxurious, though it does offer the usual upscale features, including heated and cooled front seats, driver’s seat memory settings, and a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system. However the Edge does have something that the Explorer doesn’t yet share: the newer SYNC 4 infotainment system. The Edge comes standard with a 12-inch central touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, we expect Ford to update the Explorer’s SYNC 3 infotainment system with the latest technology for the 2025 model year!
Is the 2024 Ford Explorer More Powerful than the 2024 Ford Edge?
When it comes to rugged performance, the Explorer has the advantage. This three-row crossover offers two powerful engine options, the strongest of which really turns up the heat, with 400 horsepower. Unlike most crossover SUVs, the Explorer comes standard with rear-wheel drive, a setup that creates a strong, sporty ride and lends itself to higher towing capabilities. Properly equipped, the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds.
Choose from these 2024 Ford Explorer powertrain options:
- Turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine (300 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- Turbo 3.0L V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft)
- 10-speed automatic transmission
- Rear-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive
The Edge also offers two sporty engine options. The performance-based Edge ST trim model delivers the swiftest ride, thanks to its exclusive 335-horsepower turbocharged V6. Every Edge comes standard with all-wheel drive, automatically boosting traction whenever necessary! Properly equipped, the Edge can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Choose from these 2024 Ford Edge powertrain options:
- 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 transmission
- All-wheel drive
What is the Starting Price of the 2024 Ford Edge?
Compared to the 2024 Ford Edge (from $38,465), you can actually get a better deal on the 2024 Ford Edge (from $36,860). Since the two-row Edge comes standard with all-wheel drive and updated internment features, it starts at a slightly higher price than the three-row Explorer.
Is the 2024 Ford Explorer Worth Buying?
So which should you choose? If you want three rows of seating, extra interior luxury, potent power, and a sporty rear-wheel-drive performance, you need the 2024 Ford Explorer. This mid-size SUV is a great option for all families! But if you’re after the latest tech features, standard all-wheel drive, a swift performance, and seating for five, the 2024 Ford Edge will be your favorite!