21 MPG combined. That’s the bottom line for the 2023 Ford Edge AWD with its 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6. Before you dismiss it as underwhelming, understand what this Edge is: a comfortable, spacious, and surprisingly quick two-row SUV designed for suburban families who prioritize space and power over Prius-like efficiency. These buyers want the security of all-wheel drive and the punch to merge confidently onto highways, and they’re willing to accept the fuel economy trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Ford Edge AWD 2.7L EcoBoost at 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. These figures tell a story. The lower city MPG reflects the engine working harder in stop-and-go traffic, burdened by the vehicle’s weight and the inherent inefficiencies of frequent acceleration and braking. The highway MPG creeps up to a more respectable number, showcasing the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently once it settles into a steady speed. The eight-speed automatic transmission plays a critical role here, helping to keep the engine in its optimal rev range for fuel conservation at higher speeds. However, the aerodynamic limitations of an SUV shape mean it will never rival a sedan on the open road.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2023 Ford Edge AWD 2.7L EcoBoost is $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. The calculation provides a standardized benchmark for consumers to compare the fuel expenses of different vehicles. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local gas prices, which can fluctuate significantly.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a good starting point, but real-world MPG often differs. Expect to see figures slightly below the EPA estimates if your driving is primarily urban, or if you frequently use the EcoBoost engine’s power. Conversely, if you maintain a steady pace on the highway and avoid aggressive acceleration, you might achieve results closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the 25 MPG highway figure. Tire pressure also plays a role, making it all the more important to check occasionally. The 2.7L engine’s throttle response is eager, tempting drivers to use the boost more frequently and negatively impacting fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2023 Ford Edge’s fuel economy places it in the middle of the pack among its competitors. The Honda Passport, another V6-powered AWD SUV, averages 21 MPG combined. The Nissan Murano, also with a V6 and AWD, achieves nearly identical figures. A Mazda CX-50 with its base 2.5L engine and AWD manages around 27 MPG combined but lacks the Edge’s optional power. Comparing all Ford fuel economy data reveals that opting for the Edge ST, with its higher-output version of the 2.7L EcoBoost, will further decrease your MPG. The EDGE MPG across all years demonstrates that this generation’s fuel economy figures are consistent with earlier models. For buyers cross-shopping in this segment, the decision often comes down to balancing fuel economy with other factors like space, features, and performance, where the Edge strikes a reasonable compromise.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Ford Edge 2.7L EcoBoost responds well to a light foot. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking whenever possible to conserve fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed, especially during highway driving. The engine is eager to make power, but that extra boost comes at the expense of fuel economy.

Regular maintenance is key for optimal fuel efficiency. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to reduce rolling resistance, and follow the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule, including oil changes and air filter replacements. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently, leading to improved MPG. A simple tire pressure check before a long road trip can save you money.

Reduce unnecessary weight in your vehicle. Carrying heavy items in your trunk or cargo area increases the amount of energy required to move the vehicle, negatively impacting fuel economy. Remove any items that you don’t need to carry on a regular basis, such as sports equipment or tools.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and avoid unintended acceleration. Cruise control helps optimize fuel consumption by preventing fluctuations in speed, which can occur when driving manually. Pay attention to road conditions and adjust your speed accordingly, but let the cruise control manage the throttle.