The 2018 Ford Edge AWD with the 3.5L V6 gets 19 MPG combined. It’s a comfortable, spacious, and capable midsize crossover that prioritizes smooth power delivery and confident all-weather traction instead of maximum fuel efficiency. This number won’t win any awards, but it’s what buyers who value the Edge’s features pay for it and aren’t overly concerned with maximizing every last drop of gasoline.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Ford Edge AWD 3.5L at 17 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure reflects the engine working harder during stop-and-go driving and the inherent inefficiencies of an all-wheel-drive system constantly engaging and disengaging. On the open road, the Edge’s fuel economy increases as the engine settles into a more efficient cruising speed. While 23 MPG isn’t great for a modern crossover, remember that this Edge configuration prioritizes power from its naturally aspirated V6. The 2.0L EcoBoost 4-cylinder offers better MPG but a less reliable driving experience for some buyers.

Annual fuel cost

Based on the EPA’s estimates, the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Ford Edge AWD 3.5L is approximately $2,300. This figure presumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with a mix of city and highway conditions, using the national average fuel price.

Factors like local gas prices, driving habits, and the percentage of city versus highway miles can all influence the actual amount spent on fuel each year. For example, aggressive driving will almost certainly push fuel costs higher.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates offer a standardized baseline, but real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Drivers who frequently encounter heavy traffic, drive aggressively, or live in hilly areas may see figures closer to the city estimate. On the other hand, those who primarily drive on the highway at moderate speeds could achieve MPG numbers closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA’s 23 MPG highway rating.

Regular maintenance, such as keeping tires properly inflated and using the recommended oil, also contributes to maximizing fuel efficiency. Factors such as carrying heavy cargo regularly or using roof racks will also negatively affect fuel economy. Consulting owner forums and fuel tracking apps dedicated to the EDGE MPG across all years will give you a better insight into what you can expect from your Edge.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2018 Ford Edge AWD 3.5L is in the middle of the pack in terms of fuel economy. For example, the 2018 Toyota RAV4 AWD boasts a combined EPA rating of 25 MPG, making it a more fuel-efficient choice for those prioritizing gas mileage. The Honda CR-V AWD achieves 27 MPG combined. On the other hand, the six-cylinder Nissan Murano AWD from the same year manages around 20 MPG combined. The Jeep Grand Cherokee with its V6 engine often achieves similar or slightly lower fuel economy depending on the specific configuration and engine option.

The relevance of these comparisons depends on priorities. Someone looking for maximum MPG will cross-shop the RAV4 and CR-V. The Edge buyer is usually willing to trade some fuel savings for the smooth power of the 3.5L V6 and the Edge’s overall driving dynamics.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The 3.5L V6 delivers ample power, but using it sparingly will significantly improve fuel economy. Smooth, consistent driving is key to efficiency, especially in city environments where frequent stops and starts can severely impact MPG. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Properly inflate your tires. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. This simple step can contribute to a noticeable improvement in fuel economy. The correct tire pressure is listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Regularly maintain your vehicle. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance. These seemingly small tasks can collectively contribute to better fuel economy and extend the life of your vehicle. Consult all Ford fuel economy data to compare the efficiency savings afforded by certain maintenance.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling wastes fuel and increases emissions. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Restarting the engine consumes less fuel than letting it idle for an extended period, particularly with modern engine technology.

Lighten your load. Remove unnecessary items from your vehicle to reduce weight and improve fuel efficiency. The heavier the vehicle, the more fuel it consumes. Removing extra cargo can make a small but measurable difference, especially on longer trips.