2025 Ford Explorer vs. 2025 Ford Edge: A Comprehensive Comparison

With the redesigned 2025 Ford Explorer and the popular Ford Edge, Ford offers two great midsize SUV options to buyers in Brampton that each catering to distinct lifestyles. The Explorer is a three-row midsize SUV, perfect for families and adventure seekers looking for versatility and space. The Edge, a two-row midsize SUV, focuses on sporty driving dynamics and practicality, making it ideal for couples or smaller families. Both SUVs embody Ford’s commitment to advanced technology, design, and performance, but how do they truly compare? Let’s dive deep into their features, interior space, cargo capacity, engine options, efficiency, and standout characteristics.

Features: Edge’s Refinement vs. Explorer’s Versatility

The Ford Explorer stands out for its versatility and ability to accommodate larger families with seating for up to seven passengers. The interior features available on trims like the Platinum and ST-Line include Ford Co-Pilot360™ Assist 2.0, BlueCruise hands-free highway driving, and a B&O® Sound System by Bang & Olufsen® with 10 speakers. Additionally, the Explorer offers performance-enhancing options like a Class III Trailer Tow Package with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 lbs. and a customizable Terrain Management System™ with six driving modes.

The Ford Edge, meanwhile, appeals to those seeking sporty performance in a two-row SUV. With its sleek design, SYNC® 4A infotainment system, and rotary gear shift dial, the Edge emphasizes style and tech-forward simplicity. The Edge ST trim takes performance up a notch with a 2.7L EcoBoost® engine, sport-tuned suspension, and paddle shifters for a dynamic driving experience. While it doesn’t offer three-row seating or as many trailering options as the Explorer, the Edge focuses on agility, comfort, and advanced connectivity.

Key Takeaway: The Explorer excels in versatility and family-focused features, while the Edge prioritizes sporty refinement and cutting-edge tech.

Interior Space: Explorer Leads in Versatility

The interior space of the Explorer and Edge reflects their different purposes. The Explorer offers seating for up to seven passengers, thanks to its optional third-row seats, making it ideal for larger families. The Edge, with seating for five, delivers more room for passengers in the first two rows. Below is a table comparing interior dimensions:

The Explorer’s third row adds flexibility but sacrifices rear legroom compared to the Edge. If third-row seating isn’t essential, the Edge provides more room for rear passengers, making it more comfortable for adults in the second row.

Key Takeaway: The Explorer offers more versatility for families, while the Edge delivers better two-row passenger comfort.

Cargo Capacity: Explorer Wins for Total Storage

When it comes to cargo space, the Explorer pulls ahead, thanks to its larger dimensions and third-row flexibility. The Edge still offers impressive cargo room for a two-row SUV but falls short of the Explorer’s total storage capacity.

The Edge provides more accessible storage for daily use with two rows, but the Explorer’s foldable third-row seats allow for much greater overall capacity, particularly for long road trips or hauling large items.

Key Takeaway: The Explorer’s larger cargo capacity makes it the better choice for families with significant storage needs.

Engine Lineup: Edge Offers Sport, Explorer Brings Power

Both SUVs come with impressive powertrains, but the Explorer has the edge (pun intended) when it comes to diversity and towing capability.

2025 Ford Explorer:

• Base Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (300 hp, 310 lb-ft of torque).
• Available Engine: 3.0L EcoBoost V6 (400 hp, 415 lb-ft of torque) in the ST trim.
• Towing Capacity: Up to 5,000 lbs. with the Class III Trailer Tow Package.

2025 Ford Edge:

• Base Engine: 2.0L EcoBoost I-4 (250 hp, 280 lb-ft of torque).
• Available Engine: 2.7L EcoBoost V6 (335 hp, 380 lb-ft of torque) in the ST trim.
• Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs. with the Class II Trailer Tow Package.

The Explorer’s engine lineup includes more power for towing and off-road performance, while the Edge delivers a smoother and sportier drive, particularly in the ST trim with its sport-tuned suspension.

Key Takeaway: The Explorer dominates in power and versatility, while the Edge focuses on sporty refinement.

Efficiency: Edge is the Winner

For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, the Edge emerges as the better choice:

• 2025 Ford Edge: With its base 2.0L EcoBoost engine, the Edge offers slightly better fuel economy, ideal for city commuters and long highway drives.
• 2025 Ford Explorer: While efficient for its size, the Explorer's larger engines and greater weight mean it lags slightly behind the Edge in MPG ratings.

10 Standout Categories: Explorer vs. Edge

1. Passenger Capacity: Explorer (Seats 6-7).
2. Front Passenger Comfort: Edge (Better front-seat dimensions).
3. Second-Row Comfort: Edge (More legroom for second-row passengers).
4. Third-Row Usability: Explorer (Only option with a third row).
5. Cargo Space: Explorer (Greater total capacity).
6. Technology: Tie (Both feature advanced infotainment systems).
7. Towing Capacity: Explorer (Up to 5,000 lbs.).
8. Sporty Driving Experience: Edge (ST trim focuses on performance).
9. Fuel Efficiency: Edge (More efficient overall).
10. Family-Friendliness: Explorer (More seats and cargo room).

Final Verdict

The 2025 Ford Explorer is the better option for families, offering seating for up to seven, greater cargo capacity, and towing power. Meanwhile, the 2025 Ford Edge caters to drivers seeking sporty performance, superior two-row comfort, and better fuel efficiency. Your choice depends on whether you value third-row seating and power (Explorer) or agility and efficiency (Edge). Both SUVs continue Ford’s legacy of combining utility and innovation, ensuring there’s something for everyone in this impressive lineup.