Alex D.

Motormouth mentioned in their CX-5 reveal video that only 10% of buyers purchased the turbo CX-5, so it made sense to drop it as an option due to lack of demand.

Ioniq 5 and 6 also have a column shifter for the same reason - to free up console space. This design takes some getting used to initially, but becomes intuitive. Glad to see Ford going this way as well.

Not to mention the difference in quality between Explorer and Edge...

Atlas Blue! It bears some resemblance to Velocity and Lightning Blue. Agree with jod on that color on the Everest. We saw several Everests in that color on a recent trip to NZ.

https://www.wdrb.com/news/business/ford-idles-louisville-assembly-plant-amid-rocky-launch-of-new-escape/article_807dd358-abcc-11ed-94c3-53b32c6a3045.html

This does appear to be an improvement from a cosmetic standpoint -- both inside and out. I do wonder if the materials quality will improve.

I can't recall another Ford vehicle who's order guide was released before an official unveiling. We haven't even seen the full interior yet!

I agree about the size. Coming from an Escape (which was generally too small for me) and having driven an Explorer for work (too big for me), the Edge is just right. There have been a total of 3 in my family, including my current one. My Dad still drives a 2014.

I found this surprising as I had no idea the Edge enjoyed so many repeat buyers. https://fordauthority.com/2022/08/ford-edge-top-ranked-vehicle-in-u-s-for-brand-loyalty-in-may-2022/

Maybe there will be a towing package? Haha. Was wondering the same.

https://fordauthority.com/2022/01/2023-ford-fusion-mondeo-sedan-caught-undisguised-in-michigan/

This is true. And the space utilization comment regarding the sliding seats is a good point. Either way, the Edge cargo area is a good deal larger than either Escape model -- by ~5 cu. ft when comparing a non-hybrid with the seats slid all the way forward.

Having owned both, the Edge certainly has a larger feel. The biggest size increase is in the cargo area. I was able to fit an entire replacement screen sliding door in the Edge cargo area. No dice in the Escape. Much more room for luggage for vacations in the Edge as well. Having said all that, the sweet spot for me at least would be a vehicle in between the Edge and Escape in terms of size.

I can see Maverick vibes in the front end styling, so it may not be completely out to lunch assuming Ford's going with a consistent design theme.

You got it! ON Semiconductor is located just down the road from me.