Without practice, spotting the differences between the Ford Edge, Escape, and Explorer can be a bit of a puzzle. (The alliteration doesn't help either.) Luckily, our easy-to-skim guide is here to help you pick apart these Ford crossovers and choose the one with the features you want. Check it out before you start test driving.
Ford Edge, Escape, and Explorer: Size & Classification
From smallest to largest, you have the Ford Escape, Edge, and Explorer. The Escape is the compact crossover of the bunch. It's got roomy seating for five, but it's also the perfect size for city driving and parking. The Edge is a five-passenger mid-size crossover. Its general roominess and generous cargo space trumps competitors. The Explorer also falls into the mid-size crossover segment, but it's got space for up to seven passengers.
Edge, Escape, and Explorer Power
Power and performance are also big dividers between the Edge, Escape, and Explorer. Each offers a range of powertrain options, letting you tailor performance toward responsive sportiness or smooth luxury. Size matters, so you can expect bigger engines and more horsepower as you go from compact Escape to mid-size Edge and Explorer.
You might be surprised to learn that the compact Escape and mid-size Edge can tow the same max loads: up to 3,500 pounds. If you don't need the extra cabin space, the compact Escape offers impressive capability with a lighter footprint. Though, if you do need the extra legroom and cargo space, the Edge is your crossover.
For the most in rugged crossover power and performance, get yourself the Ford Explorer. This big mid-size crossover can tow max loads of 5,000 pounds. That's equal to a gigantic boat or a decent-size family camper.
Edge, Escape, and Explorer Common Ground: Tech & Safety Gear
No matter their size and speed, these crossovers have a lot of Ford features in common-namely, tech and safety gear.
Ford makes sure you have all the infotainment features you need to stay connected-and to do so without ever picking up your phone. Here are some of the highlights:
Sync 3 is Ford's cutting-edge infotainment system. Sync3 is one of the best out there, serving up intuitive touch screen menus and a pain-free voice control experience. Part of the reason for that is Ford's integration of Apple CarPlay & Android Auto. Once you've experienced this smartphone integration technology, this connectivity becomes vital to your existence. Instead of picking up your phone to make a call or switch music options, these features are displayed on the Sync 3 central touchscreen. Better yet, you can call them up using the voice control button on the steering wheel. Sync Connect technology, included in the Sync 3 infotainment system, offers remote access to your crossover via smartphone app. It also means a Wi-Fi hotspot for your crossover cabin.
High-tech driver aids are also available for the Ford Edge, Escape, and Explorer. More than alerting you to danger-which, of course, is a vital function-these systems can act on your behalf, slamming on the brakes or correcting your steering to keep you out of harm's way. A few favorites include forward collision warning with auto braking, lane keeping assist, and blind-spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert.