Is the Explorer ST Significantly Larger Than the Edge ST? Quick Answer and Size Comparison The direct bottom-line answer is yes: the Ford Explorer ST is noticeably and substantially larger than the Ford Edge ST in nearly every key dimension. Engineered on a rear-wheel-drive-biased midsize 3-row platform, the Explorer ST measures 198.8 inches in overall bumper-to-bumper length. By comparison, the two-row Ford Edge ST comes in at 189.7 inches. That 9.1-inch difference in exterior body length creates two distinctly different driving and ownership experiences. Height and cargo availability tell a similar story. Standing 70.2 inches tall, the Explorer ST towers 4.2 inches over the 66.0-inch height of the Edge ST. For families and drivers around Junction City, Kansas who require maximal cargo carrying capability, the Explorer ST offers up to 88 cubic feet of maximum volume with both rear seating rows folded flat. The Edge ST provides a still-generous 73 cubic feet behind its front row. Below is a quick overview of how these two performance-engineered Ford SUVs compare at a glance. Dimension / Feature Ford Edge ST (2-Row) Ford Explorer ST (3-Row) Difference Overall Length 189.7 in 198.8 in Explorer +9.1 in Overall Height 66.0 in 70.2 in Explorer +4.2 in Overall Width (no mirrors) 75.9 in 78.9 in Explorer +3.0 in Wheelbase 112.2 in 119.1 in Explorer +6.9 in Max Cargo Volume 73.4 cu ft 87.8 cu ft Explorer +14.4 cu ft Seating Capacity 5 Passengers 6 to 7 Passengers Explorer +1 to +2 seats Exterior Size Breakdown: Bumper-to-Bumper Dimensions and Wheelbase Compared When evaluating how an SUV fits into daily life—from standard residential garages in Junction City to tight street parking downtown—the exterior footprint plays a major role. The Ford Edge ST sits on a front-wheel-drive-based architecture with transverse engine positioning. This layout allows for a compact nose and an efficient overall length of 189.7 inches with a 112.2-inch wheelbase. In contrast, the Ford Explorer ST features a longitudinal engine placement on a rear-wheel-drive-biased platform. This architecture demands a longer hood line and stretches the wheelbase out to 119.1 inches—nearly 7 inches wider between axle centers than the Edge ST. This extra wheelbase provides exceptional high-speed tracking along I-70 between Fort Riley and Salina, while giving the Explorer ST a commanding, athletic presence on the road. Width is another consideration. At 78.9 inches wide (excluding mirrors), the Explorer ST is 3.0 inches broader than the 75.9-inch Edge ST. Standard garage doors measure 96 inches wide, meaning the Edge ST leaves slightly more breathing room when pulling inside during severe Kansas winter weather. Ground clearance is closely matched between both performance SUVs. The Explorer ST offers approximately 8.2 inches of clearance compared to 8.0 inches on the Edge ST. Both models comfortably navigate unpaved gravel country roads across Dickinson County or snow-covered parking spots during local winter storms. Passenger Comfort and Cargo Volume: 3-Row Versatility vs. 2-Row Agility Step inside the cabin, and the practical impact of the Explorer ST's larger overall footprint becomes instantly clear. As a standard three-row SUV, the Explorer ST accommodates up to 7 passengers with the 2nd-row bench seat or 6 passengers when equipped with optional 2nd-row captain's chairs. First-row legroom reaches 43.0 inches, second-row legroom measures 39.0 inches, and third-row legroom offers 32.2 inches for kids or adults on shorter trips. The Ford Edge ST focuses exclusively on 5-passenger seating across two spacious rows. Because it does not accommodate a third row, rear passengers enjoy an impressive 40.6 inches of second-row legroom—out-legrooming the Explorer ST's second row by more than an inch. For couples or smaller families who prioritize maximum rear passenger stretch-out room without managing a third row, the Edge ST presents an exceptionally comfortable cabin environment. Cargo management reflects another major point of comparison. With all three seating rows active, the Explorer ST holds 18 cubic feet of cargo behind the third row—ideal for groceries or sporting gear. Fold the third row flat, and capacity opens up to 48 cubic feet. Fold both the second and third rows down, and total volume climbs to 88 cubic feet. The Edge ST supplies 39 cubic feet of dedicated cargo space directly behind its second-row seats—more than double the space of the Explorer ST when all seating rows are upright. Folding the Edge ST's 60/40 split-fold rear seats yields a maximum of 73 cubic feet of flat load floor space. If you're looking to upgrade your current vehicle to match your space needs, check out our easy Trade In Evaluation tool at Valor Ford. Value Your Current Trade-In What Engine and Horsepower Specs Does the Ford Edge ST Feature Compared to the Explorer ST? Ford Edge ST Powertrain The Ford Edge ST is powered by a specifically tuned 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine. It produces an impressive 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque when running on 93-octane premium fuel. Mated to a 7-speed quick-shifting automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, it routes power to all four wheels through an intelligent All-Wheel Drive system with disconnect capability. Ford Explorer ST Powertrain The larger Explorer ST ups the ante with a high-output 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine tuned by Ford Performance. Delivering a blistering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, this engine pairs with a responsive 10-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. Its longitudinal RWD-based architecture provides dynamic power delivery to all four wheels with a distinct rear-biased performance feel. Drivetrain Comparison While both models bear the Ford Performance ST badge, their underlying architectures create different driving personalities. The Edge ST's transverse engine layout feels punchy and nimble on curvy two-lane Kansas roads, whereas the Explorer ST's 400-hp longitudinal powertrain offers relentless top-end pull and impressive high-speed passing acceleration. Ford Edge ST 0-60 Performance Specs and Straight-Line Acceleration A central question enthusiast drivers ask is: What is the 0-60 mph time for the Ford Edge ST? In independent instrumented testing under ideal weather and track conditions, the Ford Edge ST accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 5.7 seconds, completing the quarter-mile in roughly 14.3 seconds at 98 mph. For a two-row crossover weighing roughly 4,500 pounds, a sub-6-second 0-60 time delivers thrilling launch force off the line. The 2.7L EcoBoost V6 generates maximum torque early in the RPM band (at 3,250 RPM), pushing drivers back into their bolster-supported sport seats with zero hesitation. Despite its larger overall physical size and heavier curb weight of around 4,700 pounds, the Ford Explorer ST is actually faster in a straight-line sprint. Thanks to its 400-hp 3.0L V6 twin-turbo powerplant and launch-optimized 10-speed transmission, the Explorer ST launches from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds, finishing the quarter-mile in 13.8 seconds. The Explorer ST's superior power-to-weight ratio (11.75 lbs/hp vs Edge ST's 13.5 lbs/hp) accounts for this half-second performance edge. However, both vehicles stand out as true performance utility vehicles capable of out-accelerating many traditional sport sedans on the highway. What Mode Optimizes 0-60 Launch Performance in the Edge ST and Explorer ST? To extract the absolute fastest acceleration times from either vehicle, drivers should engage Sport Mode. In both the Edge ST and Explorer ST, activating Sport Mode via the rotary gear shift dial or drive mode selector immediately reconfigures multiple vehicle control modules simultaneously. Specifically, Sport Mode sharpens throttle pedal response for instant engine mapping, holds gears longer into higher RPM bands, speeds up transmission shift execution, sharpens electronic power steering feedback, and enhances the cabin sound generator to amplify the EcoBoost V6 exhaust note. To explore more about Ford's performance lineage, take a moment to Research Ford Explorer model features. Explore Ford Explorer Performance Models How Much Faster Is the Edge ST Compared to the Edge ST-Line in 0-60 mph Tests? Authentic Ford Edge ST The authentic Ford Edge ST packs a 2.7L Twin-Turbo EcoBoost V6 producing 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. It shoots from 0 to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. It includes Ford Performance suspension tuning, available performance brake packages with red calipers, and true track-focused cooling hardware. Edge ST-Line (Style Focus) The Edge ST-Line provides the aggressive blacked-out exterior styling of the ST but retains the standard 2.0-liter EcoBoost Inline-4 engine (250 hp / 280 lb-ft of torque). The Edge ST-Line accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.8 seconds. 1.1-Second Performance Gap The true Edge ST is a full 1.1 seconds faster to 60 mph than the ST-Line. Drivers seeking real twin-turbo muscle and track-capable handling will want the full ST model, while those focused primarily on sporty design and fuel savings often prefer the ST-Line trim. How Much More Expensive Is the ST Compared to the SEL or Titanium Trims? Upgrading to a Ford Performance ST model represents a meaningful step up in engineering, equipment, and price compared to mid-level SEL or luxury-leaning Titanium trims. For the Ford Edge lineup, baseline SEL models typically start around $38,000 to $40,000, while the high-line Titanium trim lands near $43,000 to $45,000. The performance-flagship Ford Edge ST carries a starting MSRP of roughly $47,000 to $49,000 depending on optional packages—making it approximately $7,000 to $9,000 more expensive than an SEL and $3,000 to $5,000 above a Titanium. However, that price differential buys the 335-hp Twin-Turbo V6, tuned AWD system, leather/Miko suede sport seats, and upgraded suspension architecture. Similarly, in the Explorer lineup, the 400-hp Explorer ST commands a price premium over Explorer XLT or Limited trims. To review options, local buyers can quickly Get Pre-Approved for Financing online with Valor Ford. Towing Capacity and Utility for Junction City and Fort Riley Drivers For active drivers in Junction City, Fort Riley personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts taking weekend trips to nearby Milford Lake, trailering performance is often a critical factor. Here, the physical size and powertrain orientation of the Explorer ST provide a dramatic capability advantage. When equipped with the standard Class IV Trailer Tow Package, the 3.0L EcoBoost Ford Explorer ST boasts a maximum towing rating of 5,600 pounds. This allows owners to easily haul heavy ski boats, camper trailers, or double-axle utility trailers loaded with off-road equipment. The two-row Ford Edge ST comes standard with a Class II Trailer Tow Package capable of pulling up to 3,500 pounds. While 3,500 lbs easily handles small pop-up campers, jet skis, or lightweight utility gear, drivers needing serious weekend trailering power will appreciate the extra 2,100 lbs of towing capacity engineered into the Explorer ST. Military families at Fort Riley moving gear across state lines or taking advantage of outdoor recreational areas throughout central Kansas will find both vehicles versatile, but the Explorer ST remains the clear heavy-duty leader. Apply for Pre-Approved Financing Maneuverability and Parking: Navigating Junction City and Dickinson County Roads Turning Radius & Parking Thanks to its shorter 112.2-inch wheelbase and overall length, the Edge ST boasts a curb-to-curb turning radius of 39.3 feet. This makes parallel parking on Washington Street in Junction City or making U-turns in tight school drop-off lanes significantly easier. Explorer ST Dynamics The Explorer ST requires a turning circle of 40.8 feet due to its extended 119.1-inch wheelbase. While standard 360-degree camera systems make parking manageable, the extra 9 inches of body length requires extra care in compact parking lots. Highway Stability On open stretches of Kansas highway and cross-country road trips, the Explorer ST's longer wheelbase translates into outstanding high-speed directional stability and less susceptibility to crosswind buffeting during breezy midwestern afternoons. Fuel Efficiency and Long-Term Ownership Costs Compared When comparing operating costs over years of ownership, fuel consumption and routine maintenance play important roles. EPA ratings for the 2.7L V6 Ford Edge ST earn an estimated 19 MPG City / 25 MPG Highway / 21 MPG Combined. The larger, 400-hp 3.0L V6 Ford Explorer ST carries an EPA estimate of 18 MPG City / 24 MPG Highway / 20 MPG Combined in All-Wheel Drive configuration. Considering the Explorer ST provides 65 additional horsepower and 3-row capacity, the 1 MPG difference highlights the efficiency of Ford's 10-speed transmission. Both high-performance EcoBoost engines run optimally on 93-octane premium unleaded fuel to achieve advertised horsepower and torque figures. Synthetic motor oil changes, tire rotations, and brake system care keep both ST models operating at peak performance. Our certified technicians at Valor Ford specialize in maintaining EcoBoost twin-turbo powertrains and ST performance components. You can easily Schedule Ford Service Today or request convenient Schedule Pickup and Delivery Service for your maintenance appointments. Test Drive Ford ST Performance SUVs at Valor Ford in Junction City Choosing between the Ford Edge ST and Ford Explorer ST ultimately comes down to your priorities for seating, cargo volume, overall vehicle footprint, and towing power. If you desire agile two-row seating with 335 twin-turbo horsepower and easy garage fitment, the Edge ST is a superb sport crossover. If you need 3-row versatility, 5,600 lbs of towing capacity, and 400 horses under the hood, the larger Explorer ST is the ultimate family performance SUV. Valor Ford warmly invites drivers from Junction City, Fort Riley, Manhattan, and across Dickinson County to explore our full selection of pre-owned and new Ford ST models. Ready to feel the acceleration for yourself? Get Directions to Valor Ford at 1825 Goldenbelt Blvd, Junction City, KS 66441, or Call us at (785) 238-5114 to speak with our Ford sales experts. Browse Pre-Owned Performance Inventory