These days, consumers just can't get enough crossovers and SUVs in their lives. Ford Motor Company has been happy to oblige over the last few years, axing its sedan lineup in the U.S. and replacing those models with a whole host of utility vehicles in all sorts of configurations and trims. One thing The Blue Oval does not currently offer, however, is a two-row Explorer, and we think that's something it should definitely consider for a number of reasons.
For starters, as we reported last June, the Ford Edge will reportedly be discontinued at the end of its current lifecycle. This seems even more likely now that the Ford Oakville Assembly Plant, where the Edge is produced, will be retooled to build five electric vehicles in 2024.
The Edge's departure leaves a large hole in FoMoCo's lineup, as the automaker will no longer have a two-row, mid-size CUV to slot between the compact Ford Escape and the nearly full-size Ford Explorer. The Ford Bronco doesn't fill that void either, as it's a specialty body-on-frame SUV - not a crossover.
Ford could fill this gap quite easily with a two-row Explorer, much in the same way it did with the recently-launched two-row Ford Expedition XL STX. It might have to come up with a different name to distinguish the two-row Explorer from the rest of the lineup, however, as buyers could get a little confused between the Explorer ST and an STX model.
Regardless, this seems like a quick, easy, and inexpensive way to fill a rather large gap in Ford's lineup. It would also result in a more affordable version of the popular crossover for those that don't need the extra seating, a market that obviously exists given the presence of the Expedition XL STX. Now the question is - will Ford actually do it, or will it come up with an entirely new vehicle to replace the Edge?
We'll have more on the Explorer soon, so be sure and subscribe to Ford Authority for more Ford Explorer news and non-stop Ford news coverage.
The cause of the blaze is related to mechanical failure.
Ford now offers a sectioning option for the rear frame rails.
It's one of just 75 built in total.
IIHS hasn't seen an uptick in accidents as a result.
There are reportedly national security concerns regarding some equipment.
It won't be using 'Bronco' in any way, shape, or form anymore.
View Comments
Can’t say I agree! I don’t care for this gen explorer, as the exterior is bland and the interior is cheap and poorly designed. I think they should’ve built a new generation of edge on the Cd6 platform that explorer uses. This is a very big segment just think of all of the new comers in recent years like the Chevrolet Blazer, VW Atlas Cross, and Toyota Venza. The Edge despite its age is still the second best seller behind GC, so to just abandon the segment seems quite dumb to me.
Agreed, the interior is cheap and poorly designed. Just look at the competition... Ford could really bring something different with a PHEV to the North American market instead.
I thought the Fusion Active was supposed to fill that slot. Anyway the Edge is still very popular and should be redesigned to compete squarely with the Chevy Blazer where sales are through the roof.
We have owned a 2015, 2018, and a 2020 Ford Edge. Almost went with the 2020 Ford Escape this past year instead of the 2020 Edge, but the interior cargo was to small and interior felt cheap and to much hard plastic, plus the base engine vibrates. I don't need a larger SUV like the Explorer and trying to fit it in the garage. If they get rid of the Edge I don't know what I would buy from Ford, I use to own cars, but out of luck there again.
The ford explorer sells very well and the few people I know that bought a 2020 explorer seem to like them a our experience in the back seat was comfortable. But I personally wished ford would have been a little more aggressive in the new design...😕
How about a long wheelbase version of the Bronco Sport.
Ford could easily do this. The police interceptor does not have a third row. Just a flat cargo floor behind the second row.
The 3 cylinder is so depressing. Most of the Escapes and Broncos on the lot now are 3's! Why? My beef with the Escape is the whimpy front end. The Edge really has nice aggressive looks. The blacked out rims look good on the ST plus a 6 cylinder engine!
Yes, Ford desperately needs to fix the Escape front end. Is there an emergency MCE planned to fix it?
Being a former 3-row Explorer owner, I would love a 2-row Explorer. I never used that 3rd row. Well.... once in 3 years. But honesty I’m in an F-150 now and my next vehicle will either be another F-150 or a Bronco. I think it’s more important Ford redesign the dash.
Ford. Discontinuing Ford Edge is misguided. You cannot give an inch of space to Chevrolet Blazer,which is currently the king .
I would come back to Ford for a two row Explorer. Perfect size for retired wanderers. Has to be nice inside!