Change is in the air for Ford dealers around the country. Current rumors are that the last Ford Edge SUV ever will be produced on April 26, 2024. While Ford has not yet confirmed this information, the brand certainly hasn’t attempted to squelch the gossip either, which is somewhat unusual in the automotive industry. Frequently, when a model is ready to be replaced, the automaker is eagerly suggesting a replacement model for disappointed drivers.
But the lack of… anything from Ford has left some drivers wondering what vehicle is supposed to fill the void left behind. Without a 2025 Ford Edge to consider, the Ford Mustang Mach-E may find a new place to stand in the Ford SUV lineup, being one of the first electrified vehicles to openly take the place of a gasoline model. While we wait to see what happens next, let’s take a look at how the Edge and Mach-E compare.
What Happened to the Ford Edge?
The information we have regarding the discontinuation of the Ford Edge is simultaneously oddly specific and incredibly vague. The information reached the public via members of Canada’s Unifor Local 707, who received an update that stated, “As communicated by the Plant Manager, the last Edge is scheduled to be built on April 26.” Since then, the information has hit the mainstream, but without any solid statement behind it to clarify or address concerns.
Still, most experts agree that it’s not a bad time for the Edge to exit the market. Currently, the Ford lineup includes a significant array of SUVs, including the Bronco, the Bronco Sport, the Escape, the Explorer, the Expedition, the Mustang Mach-E, and the Edge. As a two-row SUV with no particular specialty, such as off-roading, the Edge has strong competition within its own stable. The Explorer and Expedition offer more room, and the four-door Bronco provides a similarly-sized vehicle with a more unique aesthetic.
Many experts also agree that the Edge is in dire need of a facelift if it is to continue production. The current generation debuted in 2015, which makes it nearly a decade old. Sure, there have been updates along the way to give us the features we have today, like a 12-inch touchscreen that operates the infotainment system and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, all of which are more recent additions to standard auto gear. In the gentlest words possible, the current Edge is in the early stages of obsolescence. It may just be time for Ford to step back from the Edge and reconsider things.
The Legacy of the Edge
If this is where we and the Edge part ways, it will be in a blaze of glory. Despite any cosmetic concerns anyone might have about the current Edge, Ford has put in the work for its overall performance. The standard engine for the SE, SEL, ST-Line, and Titanium trims is a 2.0L turbocharged inline-four EcoBoost that gives drivers a highly enjoyable 250 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Those who opt for the ST trim are in for a real treat in the form of a 2.7L twin-turbocharged V6. This particular offering is tuned for 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque.
All 2024 Edge models are offered exclusively with all-wheel drive, which includes torque vectoring control, traction control, and an independent front and rear suspension to keep the power and the wheels right where they should be. Another highly appreciated feature of the Ford Edge is the amount of interior room. With all seats occupied, Edge drivers still have 39.2 cu.ft. of space for their stuff, and rear passengers will appreciate the 40.6 inches of legroom. Folding the rear seats opens up 73.4 cu.ft. of cargo room for whatever you need to travel with you.
Standard equipment across the lineup includes the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver assistance technologies such as BLIS (Blind Spot Information System) with Cross-Traffic Alert and Auto High-Beam Headlamps. Those who select the top Titanium trim can unlock goodies like a wireless charging pad, a hands-free foot-activated tailgate, and optional features like an Enhanced Active Park Assist System with Parallel Parking, Park Out Assist, Reverse Perpendicular Parking, and Forward and Reverse and Side Sensing Systems.
In addition to the increased performance numbers, the Edge ST includes performance-oriented goodies, like a cluster of configurable LCD driver displays, bolstered captain’s chairs with the ST logo, and a 12-speaker premium Bang & Olufsen audio system. So sure, while it might be a candidate for a thorough makeover, the Ford Edge is still a very capable vehicle and a sound investment for drivers looking for a practical SUV with plenty of room and capability.
How Does the Mustang Mach-E Compare?
It has not escaped our attention that the Mustang Mach-E is an all-electric SUV, while the Edge drinks gasoline. However, as we approach what automakers promise will be an all-electric future, it’s a good idea to start comparing some of our favorite SUVs to their electric equivalents––at least until Ford releases more details about its upcoming e-SUV lineup.
The Mach-E is smaller in stature than the Edge. Maximum cargo space is 59.7 cu.ft., which shrinks to 29.7 cu.ft. of space when the seats are filled. However, the Mach-E offers an exclusive 4.7 cu.ft. drainable “frunk” that turns the former engine compartment into extra space that can be used as a cooler or storage for damp and muddy gear. The Mach-E also offers many of the features the Edge does, such as the Ford Co-Pilot360 package. Tech features considered upscale on the Edge, like the wireless charging pad, are standard across the Mach-E lineup.
While the Ford Mustang Mach-E is not as voluminous as the Edge, it makes up for it with its impressive performance. There is no one-size-fits-all powertrain situation with the Mach-E. Instead, it has two battery pack options, with the choice of rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Standard-range models have an estimated range of up to 250 miles on a full charge, while extended-range versions can take you up to an estimated 320 miles.
But what’s more exciting than that is how quickly they can get you there. The base powertrain can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds. This is a tenth of a second faster than the time it takes the V6 Ford Edge ST to make the same trip. The extended-range models step up the pace to make 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds, while the GT Performance Upgrade only requires 3.3 seconds to do the same thing.
It’s Not the Same, But It’s Very Good
Ultimately, it’s impossible to pretend that the Mustang Mach-E is an exact replacement for the Ford Edge. Having an entirely different powertrain makes it difficult to do an exact apples-to-apples comparison. Still, most of us choose our SUV based on more than just the power source. When it comes to spaciousness, the Mach-E is similar but admittedly a bit smaller. However, the Mach-E is also much faster and comes with a much longer list of standard equipment. Ultimately, drivers will have to decide for themselves which model best replaces the Edge––if the Edge is, in fact, gone for good. But, with Ford’s new electric focus, it shouldn’t be long before we get a more perfect replacement.
