Are you torn between the 2021 Ford Escape and Ford Edge? Or do you simply find it impossible to tell them apart? Our short comparison guide is here to help.
Price
As the smaller, less powerful model, the 2021 Ford Escape comes with a thriftier price tag. Ford’s compact crossover starts at $24,885, but if you choose the swifter, roomier Ford Edge, you’ll be spending at least $31,250.
Size
Both the 2021 Ford Escape and Ford Edge offer roomy seating for up to five passengers. However, the Escape is technically a compact crossover, while the Edge is a midsize crossover SUV. The Edge provides more interior space, especially in the back seats and cargo hold.
Behind the rear seats, the compact Escape offers up to 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold down those rear seats to create up to 65.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, more than enough to haul bigger items, like moving boxes or home improvement supplies.
The midsize Edge provides 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind its rear seats, or fold down the rear seats to create 73.4 cubic feet of maximum cargo space.
Performance
These Ford crossovers deliver ample speed and a smooth, comfortable ride but the Edge, as the bigger model, also offers more powerful engine options.
It stands to reason, then, that the smaller Escape is the more efficient of the pair. With its hybrid powertrain — standard for the top-trim Titanium and optional for the mid-range SE and SEL models — the Escape earns up to 41 mpg combined (44 city/37 highway mpg).
The most efficient version of the Edge uses the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive to earn up to 24 mpg combined (21/29 mpg).
However, you can equip both crossovers to tow the same max tow rating: 3,500 pounds.
Choose from three Ford Escape powertrains:
- Turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine (181 horsepower, 190 pound-feet of torque) + eight-spotted automatic transmission
- 2.5L hybrid powertrain (200 hp)
- Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 280 lb-ft)
The Edge offers two engine options:
- Turbo 2.0L four-cylinder engine (250 hp, 275 lb-ft)
- Twin-turbo 2.7L V6 (335 hp, 380 lb-ft)
Trim Models and Features
Choose from four trim 2021 Ford Escape models: S, SE, SEL, and Titanium. The base model is nicely equipped with tech and safety features, including a Wi-Fi hotspot and Forward Collision Mitigation. The SE adds the Sync 3 infotainment system, with its 8-inch touch screen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. The SEL piles on the comfort features, including heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate controls and the top-trim Titanium is loaded with upscale goodies, like ambient lighting and an automated parking system.
The Edge has an extra trim level, for a total of five options: SE, SEL, ST-Line, Titanium, and ST. The base SE gives you a lot for your money, including the aforementioned Sync 3 infotainment system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of safety aids. The SEL adds to the SE features with faux leather upholstery and power-adjustable, heated front seats. For extra-sporty style, check out the ST-Line, which features unique exterior design, 20-inch gloss black wheels, and red interior accent stitching. Finally, the Edge Titanium is loaded with premium features, including a 12-speaker sound system, leather upholstery, and a hands-free liftgate.
High-Tech Safety
These days, crossover SUVs can help you spot danger and even actively help you avoid it. The Escape and Edge both include high-tech safety aids that can hit the brakes in the face of an oncoming crash or warn you of a vehicle in your blind-spot.
Both Ford crossovers come standard with an impressive list of driver safety aids:
- Blind-Spot Monitoring
- Lane Departure Mitigation
- Forward Collision Mitigation
The Edge adds automatic high beams to its list of standard safety aids.
Both crossovers offer the optional Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Evasive Steering Assist
- Navigation
Which Crossover Should You Choose?
Choosing between the 2021 Ford Escape and Edge comes down to what you need in a crossover and, ultimately, how much you want to spend. The Edge is roomier and more powerful, and it also comes standard with a longer list of modern features.
The Escape’s more compact size comes in handy for downtown drives, and you’ll appreciate its family-friendly cabin. This crossover also helps you spend less, both on the cost of a new crossover and at the pump.