Ford discontinued the Edge after 2024, replacing it with the Explorer and Mustang Mach-E
Ford stopped making the Edge sedan after the 2024 model year. The company is steering buyers toward two vehicles instead: the Explorer, a three-row SUV that fills the midsize family vehicle slot, and the Mustang Mach-E, an electric SUV for buyers interested in battery power. Neither is a direct copy of the Edge, so which one makes sense depends on what you actually used the Edge for.
The Edge was a crossover — something between a sedan and an SUV. It sat lower than a traditional SUV, had a car-like ride, and fit five people. Ford's replacement strategy splits that audience. If you need the practical space and seating of the Edge, the Explorer is the natural choice. If you're drawn to the Edge's fuel efficiency and want to go electric, the Mach-E is worth a look.
Key Takeaways
- The Explorer is Ford's main replacement for the Edge, offering three rows of seating and more cargo space than the Edge provided.
- The Mustang Mach-E is an all-electric option for Edge owners interested in battery-powered vehicles with lower fuel costs.
- The Explorer drives more like a traditional SUV than the Edge did, with a higher ride height and more body roll in corners.
- Used 2024 and earlier Edge models are still available through dealerships and private sellers if you prefer the original crossover design.
- Ford's decision reflects a shift toward electric vehicles and larger SUVs, moving away from the sedan-SUV hybrid category.
The Explorer: More space, three rows, traditional SUV handling
The Explorer is Ford's primary replacement for Edge buyers who need a family vehicle. It's larger than the Edge — it has three rows of seating instead of two, and the third row is genuinely usable for children or smaller adults on short trips. Cargo space behind the third row is limited, but fold those seats and you get significantly more room than an Edge offered.
The Explorer drives differently than the Edge did. The Edge felt like a tall sedan — it leaned less in corners and rode lower to the ground. The Explorer is a full-size SUV, so it sits higher, has more body roll when turning, and feels more truck-like overall. If you liked the Edge's car-like handling, the Explorer will feel less refined on winding roads. If you want the commanding view and practical space of a traditional SUV, the Explorer delivers that.
For 2025, the Explorer comes in multiple trim levels with different engine options. Ford offers a standard 3.0-liter EcoBoost engine and a hybrid version that improves fuel economy. Pricing starts lower than some competitors, and the Explorer qualifies for some federal tax incentives if you buy a hybrid model, depending on your income and the vehicle's final assembly location.
The Mustang Mach-E: Electric power for efficiency-focused drivers
The Mustang Mach-E is Ford's electric SUV, designed for buyers who want lower fuel costs and reduced emissions. It's smaller than the Explorer — it seats five people, similar to the Edge — but it's all-electric, so there's no gas engine at all. For drivers who charge at home or have regular access to charging, the Mach-E can cut fuel spending dramatically.
The Mach-E comes in multiple battery sizes. The standard range gets roughly 250 miles per charge; the extended range pushes closer to 300 miles. Real-world range depends on driving habits, weather, and how much highway driving you do. Charging at home on a Level 2 charger takes 8 to 10 hours for a full charge. Public fast chargers can add 150 miles in 30 to 45 minutes, though that slows as the battery fills.
The Mach-E qualifies for federal tax incentives up to $7,500 if you meet income limits and the vehicle meets domestic content requirements. Some states offer additional rebates. The Mach-E's running costs are lower than a gas vehicle — electricity is cheaper than gasoline per mile — but you need reliable charging access to make ownership practical. If you live in an apartment without a charger or drive long distances regularly without charging infrastructure nearby, the Mach-E becomes complicated.
How the Edge compares to its replacements
| Feature | Ford Edge (2024) | Ford Explorer (2025) | Mustang Mach-E (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seating | 5 passengers | 7 passengers (3 rows) | 5 passengers |
| Powertrain | Gas engine | Gas or hybrid | All-electric |
| Driving feel | Car-like, lower ride height | Traditional SUV, higher ride height | Smooth, quiet, responsive |
| Cargo space | 37 cubic feet behind rear seats | 47 cubic feet behind third row; 87 with rows folded | 34 cubic feet behind rear seats |
| Fuel type | Gasoline | Gasoline or hybrid | Electricity |
Why Ford discontinued the Edge
Ford stopped making the Edge because crossovers like it — vehicles that blur the line between sedan and SUV — have fallen out of favor with American buyers. Consumers increasingly want either a traditional SUV with three rows and more cargo space, or an electric vehicle with lower operating costs. The Edge occupied a middle ground that fewer people were buying.
The shift also reflects Ford's broader strategy to move toward electric vehicles and larger SUVs. The company is investing heavily in battery technology and wants to concentrate its lineup on vehicles with clearer market demand. The Explorer and Mach-E represent that direction: one for buyers who want traditional SUV practicality, one for buyers ready to go electric.
Finding a used Edge if you prefer the original design
If you specifically want an Edge, used models from 2024 and earlier are still available through Ford dealerships, used car lots, and private sellers. The Edge was in production for many years, so there's inventory at various price points and mileage levels. A used Edge will cost less than a new Explorer or Mach-E, and you get the exact vehicle design you're looking for.
When shopping for a used Edge, check the service history and have a mechanic inspect it before buying. Look for any recalls Ford has issued — the company's website lists them by vehicle year and model. Fuel economy on a used Edge will be similar to what it was when new, so factor that into your long-term cost calculation compared to a hybrid Explorer or electric Mach-E.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Explorer bigger than the Edge?
Yes. The Explorer is longer, wider, and taller than the Edge was. It has three rows of seating instead of two, and significantly more cargo space when you fold the rear seats. The Explorer is a full-size SUV; the Edge was a midsize crossover.
Can I get the Mach-E with a gas engine?
No. The Mustang Mach-E is all-electric only. There is no gas option. If you want a gas or hybrid vehicle, the Explorer is your choice from Ford's current lineup in this size category.
Does the Explorer drive like the Edge?
Not exactly. The Edge felt more like a tall sedan — it had a lower ride height and car-like handling. The Explorer is a traditional SUV with a higher ride height, more body roll in corners, and a truck-like feel. If you valued the Edge's refined, car-like driving experience, the Explorer will feel different.
What if I want an electric vehicle but need three rows of seating?
Ford doesn't currently offer a three-row electric SUV. The Mach-E seats five people. If you need three rows and want electric power, you'd need to look at other manufacturers like Volkswagen (ID.Buzz) or Tesla (Model X), though those vehicles are priced higher than the Mach-E.
Are there any tax incentives for buying an Explorer or Mach-E?
The Mach-E qualifies for federal tax incentives up to $7,500 if you meet income limits and the vehicle meets domestic content rules. The Explorer hybrid may may have access to for smaller incentives depending on its assembly location and your income. Check the IRS website or Ford's site for current details, as these rules change.