Ford Killed The Edge, But What Was Meant To Come Next Still Doesn’t Exist
Ford Killed The Edge, But What Was Meant To Come Next Still Doesn’t Exist – Full Breakdown
Image: Ford Killed The Edge, But What Was Meant To Come Next Still Doesn’t Exist – Full Breakdown – Performance Comparison and Specifications
If you’re hunting for a replacement for your beloved Ford Edge SUV, the short answer is: don’t count on one anytime soon. Ford has quietly shifted its development plans away from a direct Edge successor, leaving fans to wonder what will fill the gap in the midsize crossover market. This article dives into why the Edge’s original replacement was shelved, what Ford currently offers, and how the vacuum might affect your next purchase. For more background, see the original report on Cars.com.
Why the Original Edge Replacement Was Shelved
Back in 2021, Ford teased a next‑gen Edge that would feature a sleeker silhouette, a turbo‑petrol engine, and an upgraded suite of ADAS (advanced driver‑assistance systems). By early 2023, however, the project vanished from the public roadmap. The most plausible reasons are twofold: a strategic pivot toward electrification and internal resource constraints.
Shifting Priorities at Ford
Ford’s Electrified Vehicle Strategy has placed the Mustang Mach‑E, F‑150 Lightning, and a host of plug‑in hybrids at the top of the priority list. Development dollars that might have powered a new Edge are now funneled into battery‑electric platforms, which promise higher profit margins and compliance with tightening emissions standards. In short, the Edge’s niche—comfortable, gasoline‑powered midsize SUV—no longer aligns with the company’s long‑term vision.
What Ford Currently Offers in the Mid‑Size SUV Segment
While the Edge is on hold, Ford still sells several midsize crossovers that can serve as practical alternatives. The lineup includes the Ford Explorer, the newly refreshed Ford Escape, and the more rugged Ford Bronco Sport. Each brings its own blend of space, tech, and powertrain options.
Feature Comparison
| Model | Key ADAS Features | Standard Powertrain |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Edge (2022) | BlueCruise, Pre‑Collision Assist, Lane‑Keeping | 2.0L EcoBoost (250 hp) |
| Ford Explorer (2024) | BlueCruise, Adaptive Cruise, Evasive Steering Assist | 2.3L EcoBoost (300 hp) |
| Ford Escape (2024) | Active Park Assist, Blind Spot Information | 1.5L EcoBoost (181 hp) |
| Ford Bronco Sport (2024) | Terrain Management System, Hill‑Descent Control | 1.5L EcoBoost (170 hp) |
Design & Dimensions: Edge vs. Potential Successor
Even without an official successor, industry analysts have compiled speculative dimensions based on leaked renderings. Below is a side‑by‑side look at the outgoing Edge and what the next model might have measured.
| Dimension | 2022 Ford Edge | Speculated Next‑Gen Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Length | 188.8 in | 190.5 in |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 in | 113.0 in |
| Width (mirrors folded) | 75.9 in | 76.5 in |
| Ground Clearance | 7.9 in | 8.3 in |
| Cargo Volume (behind 2nd row) | 39.2 cu ft | 41.0 cu ft |
Engine Options and Future‑Proofing
The Edge’s current powertrain is a 2.0‑liter EcoBoost that delivers smooth acceleration but falls short of the performance buzz that younger buyers crave. The rumored replacement would have introduced a smaller, turbo‑charged 1.5‑liter unit paired with a mild‑hybrid system, promising better fuel economy without sacrificing power.
| Engine | Power | Torque | Fuel Economy (combined) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 Edge 2.0L EcoBoost | 250 hp | 280 lb‑ft | 23 mpg |
| Speculated 1.5L Turbo‑Hybrid | 230 hp | 260 lb‑ft | 27 mpg |
| Explorer 2.3L EcoBoost | 300 hp | 310 lb‑ft | 21 mpg |
| Escape 1.5L EcoBoost | 181 hp | 190 lb‑ft | 29 mpg |
Pricing Landscape: Edge Legacy vs. Alternatives
Even without a new model, pricing pressure is real. The Edge’s base MSRP hovered around $32,000, while its closest competitors have begun to undercut that figure with aggressive incentives.
| Model | Base MSRP (USD) | Typical Incentive | Effective Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 Ford Edge | $32,250 | $2,000 cash | $30,250 |
| 2024 Ford Explorer | $34,500 | $3,000 rebate | $31,500 |
| 2024 Ford Escape | $27,000 | $1,500 cash | $25,500 |
| 2024 Ford Bronco Sport | $28,500 | $1,800 rebate | $26,700 |
What Could Have Been: Speculating on the Next‑Gen Edge
Imagine a crossover that marries the Edge’s comfortable cabin with the sleek roofline of a European wagon, all while offering a plug‑in hybrid powertrain that delivers 30 miles of electric‑only range. That vision aligns with the trends shaping the market: electrification, connectivity, and a premium feel at a mainstream price point. Unfortunately, as of early 2024, Ford has not announced any concrete plans to bring that concept to life.
What Ford’s Strategy Means for Buyers
For current Edge owners, the news is a mixed bag. On the plus side, the model will likely continue to receive software updates and occasional trim refreshes, preserving resale value. On the downside, the absence of a fresh competitor could mean slower innovation in safety tech and interior quality. If you’re in the market for a midsize SUV right now, consider the Explorer for space and power, or the Escape for efficiency and a lower price tag.
Conclusion
Ford’s decision to cancel the Edge’s direct successor underscores the brand’s larger pivot toward electric vehicles and higher‑margin segments. While the Edge remains a solid choice today, the lack of a forthcoming replacement leaves a noticeable void in Ford’s midsize lineup. Buyers should weigh the existing alternatives, keep an eye on upcoming EV crossovers, and remember that today’s market dynamics can change faster than a turbo‑charged engine revs.
FAQ
- 1. Will Ford ever revive the Edge nameplate?
- At this time, Ford has no public plans to bring back the Edge as a standalone model, but the name could be repurposed for an electric variant.
- 2. What ADAS features are standard on the current Edge?
- The 2022 Edge includes BlueCruise (hands‑free driving on approved highways), Pre‑Collision Assist, and Lane‑Keeping System.
- 3. How does the Edge’s fuel economy compare to the Escape?
- The Edge’s 2.0L EcoBoost gets about 23 mpg combined, while the Escape’s 1.5L EcoBoost reaches roughly 29 mpg.
- 4. Is a hybrid version of the Edge coming?
- Ford hinted at a hybrid powertrain for a future Edge, but no official launch date has been confirmed.
- 5. Which Ford SUV offers the most cargo space?
- The Explorer tops the list with up to 87.8 cu ft of cargo space when the rear seats are folded.
- 6. Can I get a plug‑in hybrid midsize SUV from Ford now?
- Ford currently offers the Escape Plug‑In Hybrid, but it sits in the compact segment rather than midsize.
- 7. How does the price of a new Edge compare to a used one?
- Certified pre‑owned Edge models often start around $25,000, offering a cost‑effective entry point.
- 8. What is the warranty coverage for a new Edge?
- Ford provides a 3‑year/36,000‑mile bumper‑to‑bumper warranty plus a 5‑year/60,000‑mile powertrain warranty.
- 9. Does the Edge support over‑the‑air updates?
- Yes, newer Edge trims receive OTA software updates for infotainment and certain driver‑assist features.
- 10. Should I wait for a future electric SUV instead of buying an Edge now?
- If you prioritize zero‑emissions and have the budget, waiting for Ford’s upcoming EV crossovers could be worthwhile. Otherwise, the current Edge still offers a balanced mix of comfort, tech, and performance.
