The Ford SUV That’s Better Than You Remember

7 minutes reading
Tuesday, 25 Aug 2026 21:00 0 5 autotech

The midsize SUV segment is packed with familiar names that have become default choices for families. Some stand out for reliability, while others are known for comfort, technology, or practicality. One Ford SUV left the North American market after the 2024 model year despite ending its run with modern technology, a refined interior, standard all-wheel drive, and turbocharged engines. With used prices now well below their original MSRPs, it may be worth another look.

Why Ford’s Most Overlooked SUV Is Now One Of The Best Used Buys In The Segment

Rear 3/4 shot of 2025 Toyota Highlander Limited in green being driven on road
Toyota

The Toyota Highlander, Hyundai Santa Fe, and Kia Sorento have long been popular choices for buyers wanting practicality and space. Their strong reputations have made them some of the most recognizable names in the midsize SUV market. By comparison, Ford’s overlooked two-row SUV struggled to stand out.

While its larger sibling, the Explorer, offered three rows, this model focused on a five-seat layout. It also could not match some segment leaders for resale value or fuel efficiency. The Honda Passport was another two-row alternative, although it occupied a slightly different position in the market. Ford’s SUV was practical for families but lacked the sales strength and reputation of the segment’s biggest names.

2024 Ford Edge front shot driving on winding road
Ford

Ford continued updating the model, but those improvements were often overshadowed by changes to the Highlander, Santa Fe, and Sorento. Ford sold 106,098 Edge models in the U.S. in 2023, yet production in North America ended after the 2024 model year. That has created an opportunity for used buyers. The final examples remain relatively modern and well-equipped, while lower demand can make them more affordable than better-known midsize SUVs.

The 2021–2024 Ford Edge Was Better Than Buyers Remember

Ford Turned Its Midsize SUV Into A Stronger Package

Burgundy 2021 Ford Edge Front 3/4
Ford

The 2021–2024 Ford Edge is worth considering for used SUV shoppers. The standard model uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 250 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The 2024 four-cylinder Edge is EPA-rated at 21 mpg city, 28 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined.

For buyers wanting more performance, the Edge ST uses a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 producing 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque, along with a sport-tuned suspension. The 2024 ST is EPA-rated at 19 mpg city, 25 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined. The Edge’s driving character is more comfort-focused than sporty in standard form. Car and Driver describes the 2024 Edge as having a smooth ride, while its ST version adds more athleticism. Its testing found the ST reasonably enjoyable to drive, with well-weighted steering, good stability in corners and a comfortable ride.

2024 Ford Edge Green driving on racetrack
Ford

Consumer Reports similarly praised the Edge for its handling agility, controlled body movements, responsive steering and ability to absorb rough surfaces without sacrificing comfort. That gives the Edge a useful split: the 2.0-liter model is the better fit for relaxed daily driving, while the ST adds performance without giving up the five-seat practicality that makes the Edge useful in the first place.

A Roomy Two-Row Cabin, Generous Cargo Space, And One Honest Trade-Off

Room For Five And Then Some: Edge Cargo And Cabin Space

2024 Ford Edge, rear seats
Ford

Cargo space is another strong suit for the Edge. The 2024 model provides 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 73.4 cubic feet with the seats folded, delivering practical storage without requiring a step-up to a larger three-row SUV. This makes it a smart choice for anyone needing extra room for luggage, gear, or shopping runs.

Inside, the two-row cabin offers generous passenger space, making the Edge comfortable for commuting, family trips, and long highway journeys. Passengers in both rows benefit from ample legroom and supportive seats, which is great for extended drives.

Clean And Purposeful: How The Edge Aged Better Than Expected

3/4 front view of dark gray 2024 Ford Edge on the road
Ford

The Edge has also aged well visually. The later 2021–2024 models sport a clean, upright design with a wide grille, slim headlights, and a squared-off profile. While not as daring as some newer rivals, the Edge’s design remains purposeful—especially in the ST trim, which adds darker exterior accents, larger wheels, and more aggressive styling cues for extra visual appeal.

A 12-Inch Touchscreen And Full Driver-Assist Suite Came Standard — At Every Trim Level

2024 Ford Edge interior shot showing front cabin
Ford

Later models continued to offer strong features. Every 2024 Edge came standard with a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, which includes automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assistance. Although the infotainment layout and some interior controls now reveal the vehicle’s age, the overall package is still competitive for today’s used buyers.

Thick Pillars, A Sluggish Transmission, And Dated Controls: The Edge’s Real Compromises

Front 3/4 action shot of 2024 Ford Edge
Ford

There are some drawbacks to consider. As noted by Edmunds, the Edge’s interior design and control layout can feel dated, and thick roof pillars affect visibility. The transmission may be slow to respond, and the ride can become uncomfortable over uneven pavement or smaller bumps. Car and Driver also pointed out that, while the cabin materials are generally good, fit and finish can be inconsistent. Finally, the Edge’s two-row layout may not suit buyers who require the flexibility and added seating of a third row.

Its Depreciation Makes It More Interesting

A Used Edge Can Offer More For Less

Side view of blue 2024 Ford Edge on ramp
Ford

The Edge’s lower profile works in favor of used buyers. According to KBB, a 2021 Ford Edge currently ranges from about $16,350 for an SE to $22,500 for an ST at its national average Fair Purchase Price, depending on trim. KBB also estimates that the 2021 Edge has depreciated 29 percent over the past three years. That puts a relatively modern midsize SUV within reach for considerably less than its original MSRP. The Edge ST costs more, but its 335-hp twin-turbo V6 makes it an option for buyers wanting stronger performance without stepping into the premium SUV market.

J.D. Power gives the 2024 Ford Edge an overall consumer rating of 77 out of 100, including 82 out of 100 for Quality & Reliability. As the 2024 Edge was largely a carry-over model, the rating draws on previous-year data and reviews, but it still supports the case that the final Edge was a reasonably dependable choice. The key is to shop based on condition. Mileage, service history, accident history, and outstanding recalls should matter more than simply finding the cheapest example.

The Ford Edge Deserves A Second Look

One Of Ford’s Most Underrated SUVs

The Edge never became one of the segment’s default choices, and its production run ended after the 2024 model year. But that is part of what makes it more interesting as a used SUV today. A 2021 model can start at around $16,350, according to KBB, while still offering standard AWD, a spacious two-row cabin, useful cargo capacity, and modern technology.

The ST adds a 335-horsepower twin-turbocharged V6 for buyers who want more performance. It will not suit buyers who need a third row or want a hybrid powertrain. But for someone who needs five seats, the Edge offers a strong package.

Front view of red 2024 Ford Edge
Ford

The 2021–2024 Ford Edge remains a solid used SUV. It lacks a third row and hybrid options, but those compromises may matter less to buyers who do not need them. With used prices well below its original MSRP, the Edge offers comfort, equipment, and practicality without the cost of a newer SUV. For buyers willing to look beyond the usual midsize SUV choices, the Edge is worth a second look.


Base Trim Engine

2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas

Base Trim Transmission

8-Speed Automatic

Base Trim Drivetrain

All-Wheel Drive

Base Trim Horsepower

250 hp

Base Trim Torque

275 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm

Fuel Economy

21/28 MPG

Make

Ford

Model

Edge

Segment

Compact SUV

Infotainment & Features

9 /10



Sources: Ford USA, EPA, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, J.D. Power

No Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *