Cartelligent clients love Ford SUVs for their cargo capacity and fuel efficiency. We’ve compiled the details for three of our most popular models the Escape, Edge, and Explorer SUVs.
Escape vs. Edge vs. Explorer?
In this article, we’ve configured a sample vehicle for each car and then examined some of the key differentiating factors. We’ve based our sample models on popular choices among Cartelligent clients.
- 2017 Ford Escape SE: Our sample Escape is an SE model with all-wheel drive. MSRP as configured is $27,745.
- 2017 Ford Edge SEL: We’ve chosen a 2017 Ford Edge SEL. Features include a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats amd polished aluminum wheels. MSRP as configured is $38,480.
- 2017 Ford Explorer XLT: We’ve equipped a sample Ford Explorer with all-wheel drive, touchscreen display, leather trim seats, and the trailer tow package. MSRP as configured is $45,350.
Vehicle Comparison
We’ll look at the features of each vehicle side-by-side.
| Escape | Edge | Explorer | |
| Model Type | 2016 Escape SE | 2016 Edge SEL | 2017 Explorer XLT |
| MSRP | $27,745 | $38,480 | $45,350 |
Engine and Fuel Economy
| Escape | Edge | Explorer | |
| Engine | 1.5L EcoBoost | 2.0L EcoBoost | 2.3L EcoBoost |
| Horsepower | 179 | 245 | 280 |
| City mpg | 20 | 20 | 18 |
| Highway mpg | 27 | 27 | 25 |
The Edge offers a more powerful engine than the Escape without compromising fuel economy.
Capacities
| Escape | Edge | Explorer | |
| Seating | 5 | 5 | 7 |
| Cargo volume (behind seats) | 34.0 ft3 | 39.2 ft3 | 21.0 ft3 |
| Cargo volume (rear seats folded) | 68.0 ft3 | 73.4 ft3 | 49.9 ft3 |
The Explorer offers 81.7 ft3 of cargo volume when both rows of seats are folded down. The Edge offers the most cargo capacity when all seats are upright.
Safety
| Escape | Edge | Explorer | |
| Rearview camera | Available | Available | Available |
| Crash prevention | Available | Available | Available |
All three models offer a variety of safety features.
Cost to purchase: Escape vs. Edge vs. Explorer
First, we’ll examine the cost of each when purchased. All payments represent pricing based on market conditions at the time of writing.
| Escape | Edge | Explorer | |
| MSRP | $27,745 | $38,480 | $45,350 |
| Down payment | $2,500 | $2,500 | $2,500 |
| Monthly payment (inc. tax) | $450 | $595 | $745 |
| Total of payments over five years | $29,050 | $37,605 | $46,455 |
The Escape is around $150/month less than the Edge and saves about $8,500 in payments over the course of five years. The Explorer is about $150 more per month than the Edge and costs about $8,900 more over the course of the loan.
Cost to lease: Escape vs. Edge vs. Explorer
Next, we’ll compare the three vehicles on a three-year, 12,000 mile/year lease.
| Escape | Edge | Explorer | |
| MSRP | $27,745 | $38,480 | $45,350 |
| Down payment | $2,500 | $2,500 | $2,500 |
| Monthly payment (inc. tax) | $310 | $395 | $485 |
| Lease disposition fee | $350 | $350 | $350 |
| Total of payments over three years | $29,050 | $16,675 | $19,825 |
The Escape is again the lowest cost option, saving about $85/month and $2,900 over the course of the lease. The Explorer is about $3,100 higher than the Edge and leases for $90 more per month.
Which to buy: Escape, Edge or Explorer?
All three vehicles can be fantastic options depending on your personal circumstances. Your Cartelligent agent can talk you through the pros and cons of each vehicle (as well as any other brands) to help you make an educated decision.
Whether you want a new Ford or any other new car, Cartelligent can help you get a great deal on exactly what you want. Call our team of car-buying experts at 888-427-4270 or get started today.