Which of Ford’s midsize SUV suits you best, the 2024 Ford Explorer or the 2024 Ford Edge? Our comparison guide helps you make the right choice, whether you’re shopping for the sportiest ride or the latest tech features!
Key Takeaways
- These Ford crossovers are close in price, with the Explorer starting at $36,860 and the Edge at $38,465.
- The rear-wheel drive Explorer is the more powerful option, but the Edge is also known for its on-road agility and speed!
- Choose the Explorer for an extra row of seating and the Edge for a roomier cargo hold.
- The Edge gives you the latest Ford infotainment system, SYNC 4, along with the wireless versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
What is the Starting Price of the 2024 Ford Explorer?
Although these midsize Ford crossovers start at similar prices, the three-row Explorer offers a better deal with its $36,860 MSRP. The two-row Edge starts at a higher price, $38,465, because it comes standard with a few features you won’t find on the base Explorer, including all-wheel drive and the newer SYNC 4 infotainment system!
Is the 2024 Ford Explorer Rear Wheel Drive?
If you’re shopping for the sportiest ride, you’re going to love the rear-wheel-drive Explorer! In addition to excellent handling, standard rear-wheel drive means strong towing capabilities. Properly equipped, the Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds. With two engine options, this three-row crossover SUV also supplies incredible power!
Depending on trim model, the Explorer is available with two powerful engine 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
Although the Edge isn’t as powerful as the Explorer, it’s still a strong option in its own right! Most trim models feature a turbocharged, 250-horsepower engine that helps you keep up with highway traffic.
Every Edge comes standard with all-wheel drive, enhancing all-weather performance. For extra agility and power, check out the Edge ST, which features an exclusive 335-horsepower engine and a sport-tuned suspension!
The Edge is also available with two strong engine options, depending on trim model:
- Turbo 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
Is the 2024 Ford Explorer Considered a Mid-size SUV?
Both the 2024 Ford Explorer and the Ford Edge are classified as midsize SUVs. However, depending on how big your family is, you’ll prefer one over the other! Inside, the Explorer delivers three rows of seating and space for six or seven passengers, depending on whether you choose a second-row bench or captain’s chairs. The Edge has two rows of seating for up to five passengers. Both models are roomy and comfortable, with your choice of luxury upgrades (think heated seats or leather upholstery).
On the other hand, the Edge delivers the roomiest cargo hold! Behind the rear seats, this two-row crossover provides 39.2 cubic feet for your stuff. Compare that to the Explorer, which has 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind its rear seats. Families who can’t leave home without a ton of stuff love the Ford Edge.
What Technology is Seen in the 2024 Ford Edge?
Tech-savvy drivers love the 2024 Ford Edge. This midsize crossover comes standard with the latest infotainment system, SYNC 4, along with a 12-inch central touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Also standard is the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety aids, with blind-spot warning and lane-keeping assist. On higher trim models, Edge gets even savvier, with available features that include built-in navigation, evasive steering assist, and a wireless smartphone charging pad.
Although the 2024 Ford Explorer features many of the same tech features as the Edge (including the Co-Pilot 360 package), it’s still working with the older SYNC 3 infotainment system. SYNC 3 is on the list of standard features, along with an 8-inch touchscreen and the wired versions of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Like the Edge, the Explorer offers plenty of upgrades, including a premium sound system and a surround-view camera system.
Is the 2024 Ford Explorer Worth the Money?
When you’re shopping for the strongest ride and the most passenger space, you need the sporty 2024 Ford Explorer! On the other hand, if a two-row SUV with incredible cargo space and the latest infotainment features is more your vibe, the 2024 Ford Edge is the right midsize crossover for you.