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Why did Ford discontinue the Edge?

The Edge was discontinued after the 2023 model year in North America as Ford shifts toward more profitable SUVs and electrified models, citing declining sales and an aging platform as primary reasons.

Context: The Edge's role in Ford's lineup

Introduced in 2006, the Edge was Ford's mid-size crossover designed to compete with popular family SUVs. It shared development with Lincoln's MKX and stood alongside Ford's expanding SUV family, including the Explorer and Escape. As consumer preferences shifted toward larger, more efficient crossovers—and Ford's portfolio grew with electrified options—the Edge gradually lost market ground.

Why Ford chose to discontinue

The following factors helped determine that the Edge no longer fit Ford's North American strategy. The list below explains the main drivers behind the decision.

Shifting consumer demand toward larger, more versatile crossovers and away from aging, non-electrified models like the Edge.

Aging underpinnings that would require costly updates to meet current safety, efficiency, and emissions standards.

Strategic reallocation of resources toward higher-margin vehicles and electrified models, including the Mustang Mach-E and future BEV crossovers.

Production and portfolio optimization to focus on models with stronger demand and better factory efficiency.

Intense competition in the midsize SUV segment from rivals offering newer designs, better fuel economy, and optional electrified powertrains.

Together, these factors signaled that continuing Edge production would yield diminishing returns for Ford, making a clean discontinuation more sensible than a costly refresh.

What comes next: Ford's focus after the Edge

With the Edge gone from the lineup, Ford has sharpened its focus on SUVs and electrified crossovers. The company continues to push the Mustang Mach-E as its flagship BEV, expands the Escape and Explorer lineups with improved efficiency and technology, and accelerates development of additional electric models built on dedicated BEV platforms. In short, Ford intends to channel resources into segments with higher demand and stronger profitability to support its broader electrification strategy.

Summary

Ford discontinued the Edge after the 2023 model year in North America as part of a broader shift toward profitable SUVs and electrified vehicles. The decision was driven by sagging sales, an aging platform, and a strategic reallocation of resources to high-demand models, especially EVs. The Edge's absence signals Ford's intention to strengthen its core SUV and electric-vehicle lineup in a market that increasingly prizes versatility and sustainability.

What is Ford going to replace the Edge with?

There is no single direct replacement for the Ford Edge, as Ford has discontinued it and is shifting focus to new and electric models. Instead, the Ford Mustang Mach-E electric SUV is marketed to former Edge enthusiasts, along with other models like the Explorer and Escape. A possible future model, the Ford Fusion Active, could also fill the gap.
Ford models to consider
This video discusses Ford's new models that may replace the Edge: 59sFaster CarsYouTube · Jul 16, 2025

Ford Mustang Mach-E: An all-electric option that is described as innovative, sustainable, and sporty. It is a strong option for those looking for a modern and high-tech experience.
Ford Explorer: Offers a larger, three-row option that can be configured for significant cargo space by folding the rear seats. It is a strong contender for those who want a versatile SUV and have been happy with Ford.
Ford Escape: A smaller SUV that is available as a hybrid. It provides a more compact footprint with a spacious interior.
Ford Fusion Active: Ford is reportedly working on a new model, the Fusion Active, which could be a capable replacement for some Edge owners, although it will have its own unique character.

This video explains the different trim levels of the Ford Explorer: 49sReMaxi CarYouTube · Feb 12, 2025
How to choose the right replacement

Consider your priorities: Decide whether you prefer a traditional gasoline/hybrid SUV or an electric vehicle.
Evaluate size: The Explorer is larger than the Edge, while the Escape is smaller. The Mach-E is lower to the ground than the Edge.
Think about technology: The Mustang Mach-E has advanced technology, but the Explorer also offers many new features.
Test drive: The best way to decide is to test drive the options and see which one fits your needs best.

Will the Ford Edge ever come back?

No, Ford will not bring back the Edge as it is currently known; it was discontinued after the 2024 model year. Ford is shifting its focus to electrification and other segments, and is repurposing the plant where the Edge was made to build new electric vehicles. The Ford Fusion Active is expected to replace the Edge, though this replacement will be a different vehicle altogether, potentially an EV crossover.
You can watch this video to see what the new Ford Edge models may look like: 37sNamCarYouTube · Jan 15, 2025
Reasons for discontinuation

Strategic shift: Ford is prioritizing electric vehicles (EVs) and has a larger strategy to develop new EV models.
Market trends: The market is leaning towards either more maneuverable, smaller options or larger, three-row SUVs, and the Edge was in a shrinking segment.
Production changes: The Oakville Assembly Plant in Canada, where the Edge was made, will be retooled for new EV production.
Competition: The Edge faced increasing competition from rivals like the Chevrolet Blazer and Hyundai Santa Fe.

What will replace it

Ford Fusion Active: Ford is expected to replace the Edge with the Fusion Active, a crossover that will likely have a different design, powertrain options (including a hybrid), and updated technology.
Potential EV replacement: Some speculate that a future EV could use the "Edge" nameplate, but it would be an entirely new vehicle and not a continuation of the old one.

This video explains why the 2026 Ford Edge will not be released in North America: 56sFaster CarsYouTube · Jul 16, 2025

Will there be a 2025 Ford Edge?

No, Ford officially discontinued the Edge in the United States after the 2024 model year, so there is no 2025 Ford Edge for the U.S. market. While some dealership websites may list a "2025 Ford Edge" due to marketing or misinformation, the vehicle has been retired, and the Ford Explorer and Escape are being promoted as its replacements.

Discontinuation: Ford officially discontinued the Edge in the U.S. after the 2024 model year to focus on other models and electrification.
Misinformation: Despite its discontinuation, some dealership websites may list a "2025 Ford Edge," but this is inaccurate for the U.S. market.
Successors: The 2025 Ford Explorer and 2025 Ford Escape are the official successors for the Edge in the U.S.
International Models: A "2025 Ford Edge L" is available in China, but it is not sold in the United States.

What is the biggest problem with the Ford Edge?

Transmission Issues
A number of Ford Edge models have struggled with a faulty transmission. Some drivers heard clunking sounds from a transmission failure, followed by error lights on the dashboard. In a number of cases, transmission problems occurred while the car was in motion, which is extremely dangerous.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.