Understanding the Differences in Performance
Both the Edge and Explorer deliver tremendous power to help you safely merge onto the highway and take on inclement weather.
With the Ford Edge, the top-tier engine is a 2.7L EcoBoost® V6, which generates a robust 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. Its available Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system helps you achieve a stable and controlled drive in all kinds of driving conditions.Â
As for the Ford Explorer, its top-of-the-line 3.0L EcoBoost® V6 generates a whopping 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. To achieve its superb power, you'll have to choose the Explorer ST trim level.
If you prefer an extremely athletic drive, then go with the ST trim of the Ford Explorer or the Ford Edge. Available with both models, this performance-focused model delivers a truly energizing drive.
Is the Ford Edge Bigger Than the Ford Explorer?
If your top priority is passenger space, you'll be pleased with the cabins of both Ford SUVs. However, the Ford Explorer provides a larger cabin, while the Ford Edge is the more compact model.

The headroom in the Explorer measures 40.7 inches in the front row, 40.5 inches in the middle row, and 38.9 inches in the rear row. In the Ford Edge, headroom checks in at 40.2 inches in front row and 40.3 inches in the rear row-no third row here! Therefore, it comes down to your personal needs as a driver: do you require a third row for extra passengers or a more compact SUV for easier parallel parking?
As for legroom, the Ford Edge provides 42.6 inches of space up front and 40.6 inches in the rear. The Explorer legroom comes to: Â
- 43 inches of first-row legroom
- 39 inches of second-row legroom
- 32.2 inches of third-row legroom
Ford Explorer vs Edge Cargo Space
Both the Ford Edge and Ford Explorer have cabins that you can arrange to better accommodate your driving needs. For example, they both provide ample cargo space to easily pack up your grocery bags, camping gear, the kids' backpacks, and much more. Â
For the Explorer, its cargo space comes to:
- 18.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row
- 47.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row
- 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row
With the Edge, your larger items can be stored behind the second row, which has 39.2 cubic feet of capacity. If you're driving solo and are moving big items across town, then fold down the second row to have up to 73.4 cubic feet of cargo space!
Ford Edge vs Ford Explorer
Both the Ford Edge and Ford Explorer are state-of-the-art SUVs that can further improve your drives around Glen Allen, Ashland, and Rockville. In the end, your choice comes down to your personal driving preferences: do you need a large SUV to accommodate your growing family or a crossover SUV to safely commute to work?
To test drive both Ford SUVs, come to Richmond Ford West! Our team looks forward to helping you during your car-buying journey.
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