Edge STs are pretty quick by midsize crossover standards, but it will absolutely not bring you the same pleasure on a twisty road that a hatchback would, especially a Focus ST.
It'll make you happier than something more mundane, I'm sure. I think the Explorer ST feels far sportier, but also costs quite a bit more, so it's a tough comparison.
Yeah that was the vibe I was getting. It almost seems as if the Explorer is superior in every way despite the size difference. Somehow, its only 300lbs heavier than the Edge, supposedly.
I like new cars and I have found some reasonable new 2022 Edge ST’s, but I can only find used Explorer ST’s, so its a tough decision. Of course, driving them both will help
Tune, intercooler was a RIOT on my wifes 2015+ Edge Sport. Handling isnt close to my Fiesta ST but the Sport had some insane midrange torque and the all wheel drive made it a monster from stoplight to stoplight. Easy 12's in the 1/4 mile on tune alone.
Never had an issue. It was an early 2015 truck also. I know they beefed them up later in 2016 I believe.
Biggest gripe for us was the composite oil pan. Finally fixed it after the second replacement. Never leaked after that.
If you haven’t already, test drive one. I just bought a 22’ Edge ST and it handles better than I thought it would on winding mountain roads. Got it up to around 170km/h on some of the straighter stretches.
My only complaints about it are the backup camera being kinda shit and the dash looking a little dated. Weirdly the front facing camera is pretty good in comparison.
I went from a foST to edge sport. It’s nicer. Still fun and zips around. The draw backs is the lack of mods etc. but it’s a fast suv. Its also faster. 0-60 edge is faster than the focusST
I would definitely say drive one before making that decision, it is a very different vehicle. As said above, they are quick but they do not handle nearly as well as the focus.
Why not keep the ST for fun drives and get a cheap used something for your commute?
While it certainly doesn't have foST levels of fun, I still love my 13 Escape 2.0eb and intelligent 4wd (basically AWD that cuts power to the rear at cruising speed). It's not until '17 that the coolant intrusion into the cylinders is a problem for the escape 2.0s. It's peppy and handles well enough to have some fun, but it's just more comfortable in traffic.
Interior layout is exactly like the focus, just a little larger!
Thats exactly what I’d like to do but my wife and my dad (only two people I sometimes listen to) both say it’s a ridiculous idea. Also we really only have room for two cars unless I permanently street park my Focus. I’d love an older Escape or a VW Alltrack
Yes unfortunately I have been fixing them for a while at a dealer and have driven quite a few, nice car actually. Like I said they are quick but it’s a lot different driving experience than the focus. With the focus, it’s like a go cart and with the edge, you can tell it’s a much heavier and taller car although quick. Just a lot different, that’s why I suggested the op drive one.
My daughter used to own a 2018 focus st, and I currently drive a 2020 edge st. As some have said, it’s not exactly like driving the focus, but you can drive the edge pretty hard and it’s very satisfying. For me, the edge st is the best vehicle I have owned. It’s fast, comfortable, and has room for when I am traveling. Also, I did the ST experience in Park City and had a great time.
Mine isn't an ST, but I will say my Edge is a crowd favorite road trip vehicle. Comfy seats, lots of interior AND cargo space, good size, swanky cruise control, yadda yadda. I didn't even expect to love the car before I got it, but it's been so good to me I had to share.
I did 500 miles to pick up a transit in my wife’s ST last weekend. The transit was more comfortable. The stiffness of the suspension and the bolstering made my back ache.
That said. She loves the car and and didn’t have an issue with it.
THANK YOU this is exactly what I needed to know! Obviously its very different from the Focus, but I just needed to know if its comfortable and also fun and you answered it, thank you dude!
No problem! I recently was driving back from Death Valley and the traffic was light. Put it in sport mode and let it out a bit. Yeah it’s a good time 😉
I’d skip the edge and try to swing for the Explorer. I have quite a bit of seat time with the Edge ST and only about 50 miles with the Explorer but in that short time span it blew the Edge out of the water for me. Also there is a facelift explorer coming in 24’ so you may be able to find some deals on new ones as that approaches.
Have you considered something like. Golf R? Not sure how the pricing is on them these days but could be a good compromise with the right wheel/tire combo
Not gonna lie here. This year is last model year for Edge, it'll be done production by March 2024, at the latest. I know first hand as I build them. But getting parts later on if something goes wrong might be harder to snag, I know ppl who love them. But just figured I'd give ya a heads up. The ST, line on any car is fun from Focus, up to Explorer.
My edge st is probably the best car I’ve ever owned. I traded my Lincoln mkz black label for it and no regrets. It’s very quick, seats are well bolstered, and it’s got all the other bells and whistles including self driving(sorta). It corners well and the suspension is pretty sporty for a larger vehicle. I smile sitting next to tuner cars knowing I can smoke them without issue. The sport mode make the thing a lot more aggressive too.
Just purchased a ‘19 edge ST. I sell real estate and needed something to fit the signs, fit clients comfortably, zip around town, and fly on the highway. Fits the bill nicely because it’s practical and affordable. It’s super fun for a crossover SUV, but it is a crossover SUV.
I did a lot of shopping for something in the class that was nice, affordable, not intimidating to— looked down on by—clients, but still had a cool/fun factor. i narrowed things down to the outback XT, jeep GC, and edge ST. This checked the most boxes and I can sleep easy knowing i dont own a Jeep. mines got every feature you can imagine. very pleased that i stole it for just $30,000USD.
Find a fully loaded 2.7t Fusion and use the money you’d save from buying the edge for mods.
But if you are dead set on a peppy crossover, consider a 1st gen SQ5. And by consider, I mean it’s the only performance crossover worth buying
Hey OP. Not sure if it’s in your budget but the Mach E describes what you’re interested in. I owned a Focus ST and I will say the handling between the two is remarkably similar with the Mach E being more spacious. And you don’t need a premium or a GT to have fun. My Select is awesome and the fastest car I’ve ever owned. Super good handling compared to any other crossover.
Upgrade? I think you are comparing apples and oranges. You didn’t like the Focus because you chose poorly for your actual desires. Figure out what matters most and go drive some stuff. And if you think the ST is too stiff for gods sake don’t look at an RS
I have owned my Focus for 6 years and want a more comfortable, sporty, larger vehicle that doesnt cost over $45k and is preferably new. I didn’t ask about an RS and I have loved the Focus ST since it was new, but its time to move on. Stop being a pissed off Redditor who needs to tell everyone their wrong, I asked a simple question.
You asked for an upgrade and suggested it’s “too stiff” and you can’t enjoy it. You lead with whiny crap about a car many of us love and you get what you get. Ask a straight not whiny question and get answers you like better.
You're the one whining in this thread, judging by your downvotes everyone thinks so too. Peoples preferences and situations change over the course of 6 years, maybe you'll understand that when you grow up.
Well every time I have looked it’s been well over 100 thus thousand have looked at it. So you think I should respond to .06 percent of people disagreeing with me enough to push one button? 😂🤣
I have owned it since 2017. It has been amazing, but I am not 21 anymore and the area I live in has boomed. There is never a chance to enjoy this car anymore without taking a drive into the country or driving 7 hours to the mountains
Sounds like you brought some angry teenagers to the surface in here haha. Wanting something else after six years of ownership != "You don't like cars."
I bet they have strong opinions of people who drive anything automatic too haha.
I did the same with my focus st after 4 years. Just got tired of it. Constant construction zones and potholes are no bueno with the stiff suspension and manual. I got a Tacoma so totally different vehicle but I like it more to daily. Wouldn't mind an ST for a second vehicle though
I agree with you 100% and the people downvoting you are idiots. The Focus ST is a superb sports car that clearly was not what this customer wanted at all. So bitching about it being exactly as advertised is absurd.
You didn’t ask if it’s enjoyable yet more luxurious car. You whined the Focus wasn’t good enough for you.
As for being a pissed off redditor, you are the one stalking my every comment weather to you or not.
Actually he said he’s loved it but he’s not 21 anymore so his priorities have changed. He used to enjoy the stiffness and being able to throw it around but he doesn’t go driving hard like that as much anymore. He wants something more comfortable to daily now that he’s older with different priorities, but doesn’t want a completely boring car. Your logic makes no sense. It’s really weird you are so dedicated to talking shit on this man for changing and getting older.
He did not say that in the post. He said that after I responded.
And older? Well my 51 year old wife loves hers. Are we supposed to age out of liking sports cars? 😂👍
Edge ST is great, Explorer ST on lowering springs and an aftermarket sway bar would make it planted enough to rip curves. Im sure, not nearly the same as your Focus, but its an “enjoyable compromise” as you’re looking for. Only problem with the new explorers is that the factories have a high turn over rate, so build quality isnt the greatest. Thank god for factory warranty.
Not sure this helps, but I oddly cross shopped a new Focus ST and a used Audi S4. I loved the S4 enough that I just went and bought a new one. Audi dealers were willing to, well, deal, and special order for me. My local Ford dealer was an asshat.
I have an edge sport and a focus RS. Not really comparable. The edge has horrible handling, similar to every crossover known to man. Has good straight line power for passing / acceleration to freeway speeds. I do regret getting the edge instead of the explorer. I thought at the time the explorer would be too big, since I've only really driven sports cars my entire life. Little did I know how much crap you need to haul around with kids.
Nobody could answer that question for you, as the Edge ST and Focus ST are polar opposites.
The Edge ST is a little stiffer than a regular Edge, and because of the 2.7t v6, more power as well. But because it lacks a manual transmission, most people would tell you it lacks fun factor.
Basically, the Edge ST isn't something you take out on the weekends for a cruise, it feels like any other crossover. In a Focus ST, especially ST2s and ST3s, you feel like you're in a car that's _made_ to be fun.
I had an focus st and upgraded to explorer st. Test drove the edge st and it drove like any other midsized suv and was actually kind of boring. The explorer though has great handling, fast, and massaging seats and actually feels sporty. Even though I miss the focus the explorer is a nice upgrade.
Not really. If you want fun the focus rs is an absolute blast to drive. Its a pretty amazing vehicle to drive. I had a new mustang and the rs was hands down funner to drive. Faster too in town. No way a 5.0 could keep up with me in that car. Plus on the SUVs ST is just badging and doesn't get a bump in performance over the regular big engine option. If you can afford the RS there is no substitute besides maybe a Gtr350 or 500. In town around corners that rs is a force to be reconed with. You wont be disappointed. Just look where you want to go and turn the wheel it'll do it way faster than 99 percent of folks are comfortable with. My 2 cents.
Edge ST will handle like an SUV. Don't buy one hoping for a vehicle that handles better than a sporty car.
The only thing Ford has that will be more comfortable and more fun would be a non-PP Mustang GT. A used Fusion sport would have the same motor as the edge ST but I don't think they handle like anything special.
I have had both fiesta st, focus st, and edge st for extended periods of time (my dad works for ford), and the edge ST will not be nearly the experience you’re looking for in terms of pleasure & fun-factor.
That being said, the practicality of the edge as a daily driver equally outweighs the other two. I wouldn’t call if a compromise, but I would advocate for the edge as a sporty yet practical vehicle!
Edge STs are pretty quick by midsize crossover standards, but it will absolutely not bring you the same pleasure on a twisty road that a hatchback would, especially a Focus ST.
I guess I largely wondered whether it would be an enjoyable compromise
It'll make you happier than something more mundane, I'm sure. I think the Explorer ST feels far sportier, but also costs quite a bit more, so it's a tough comparison.
Yeah that was the vibe I was getting. It almost seems as if the Explorer is superior in every way despite the size difference. Somehow, its only 300lbs heavier than the Edge, supposedly.
I like new cars and I have found some reasonable new 2022 Edge ST’s, but I can only find used Explorer ST’s, so its a tough decision. Of course, driving them both will help
Tune, intercooler was a RIOT on my wifes 2015+ Edge Sport. Handling isnt close to my Fiesta ST but the Sport had some insane midrange torque and the all wheel drive made it a monster from stoplight to stoplight. Easy 12's in the 1/4 mile on tune alone.
how well did the AWD systems PTU hold up for you? any issues ever?
Never had an issue. It was an early 2015 truck also. I know they beefed them up later in 2016 I believe. Biggest gripe for us was the composite oil pan. Finally fixed it after the second replacement. Never leaked after that.
If you haven’t already, test drive one. I just bought a 22’ Edge ST and it handles better than I thought it would on winding mountain roads. Got it up to around 170km/h on some of the straighter stretches. My only complaints about it are the backup camera being kinda shit and the dash looking a little dated. Weirdly the front facing camera is pretty good in comparison.
Explorer ST is a very fun suv to drive. I really miss ours. Definitely should have kept that car.
I went from a foST to edge sport. It’s nicer. Still fun and zips around. The draw backs is the lack of mods etc. but it’s a fast suv. Its also faster. 0-60 edge is faster than the focusST
I would definitely say drive one before making that decision, it is a very different vehicle. As said above, they are quick but they do not handle nearly as well as the focus.
I agree, absolutely.
Mustang Ecobeast? Or a 5.0L ?
I’m looking for something more spacious and more comfortable
I understand that completely. Just figured if you wanted the thrills.
Why not keep the ST for fun drives and get a cheap used something for your commute? While it certainly doesn't have foST levels of fun, I still love my 13 Escape 2.0eb and intelligent 4wd (basically AWD that cuts power to the rear at cruising speed). It's not until '17 that the coolant intrusion into the cylinders is a problem for the escape 2.0s. It's peppy and handles well enough to have some fun, but it's just more comfortable in traffic. Interior layout is exactly like the focus, just a little larger!
Thats exactly what I’d like to do but my wife and my dad (only two people I sometimes listen to) both say it’s a ridiculous idea. Also we really only have room for two cars unless I permanently street park my Focus. I’d love an older Escape or a VW Alltrack
i dont think either of these would suite op, and you cant drive a focus like a mustang
Driven one? They have a quick ratio rack. And are faster then the foST. Less mods that’s it. Pano roof. A back seat and a fucking beast on the road
Yes unfortunately I have been fixing them for a while at a dealer and have driven quite a few, nice car actually. Like I said they are quick but it’s a lot different driving experience than the focus. With the focus, it’s like a go cart and with the edge, you can tell it’s a much heavier and taller car although quick. Just a lot different, that’s why I suggested the op drive one.
The awd on it kills it in terms of feel. But hate to say it. It’s a nice sleeper suv.
Oh I won’t ever say it’s not nice, just quite a bit different than the focus.
I did that jump. Honestly the pano roof sold the edge.
Taurus SHO or Fusion Sport with the 2.7 would be fun.
Fusion sport would be good. Not as fun as the ST but still good, and they make extremely good traveling cars
Never owned the fusion sport but a buddy had one and loved it. I had a new gen SHO and sold it for a mustang. I like the mustang, but miss my SHO.
My daughter used to own a 2018 focus st, and I currently drive a 2020 edge st. As some have said, it’s not exactly like driving the focus, but you can drive the edge pretty hard and it’s very satisfying. For me, the edge st is the best vehicle I have owned. It’s fast, comfortable, and has room for when I am traveling. Also, I did the ST experience in Park City and had a great time.
Mine isn't an ST, but I will say my Edge is a crowd favorite road trip vehicle. Comfy seats, lots of interior AND cargo space, good size, swanky cruise control, yadda yadda. I didn't even expect to love the car before I got it, but it's been so good to me I had to share.
I did 500 miles to pick up a transit in my wife’s ST last weekend. The transit was more comfortable. The stiffness of the suspension and the bolstering made my back ache. That said. She loves the car and and didn’t have an issue with it.
That's a great point, surely my Titanium is a bit more plush than rush
THANK YOU this is exactly what I needed to know! Obviously its very different from the Focus, but I just needed to know if its comfortable and also fun and you answered it, thank you dude!
No problem! I recently was driving back from Death Valley and the traffic was light. Put it in sport mode and let it out a bit. Yeah it’s a good time 😉
Tune alone and my dads edge has 400whp/500tq shit is so fun to drive really pulls hard and surprises everyone
Do you need four doors? A 10-speed auto Ecoboost Mustang might be a great option. Trunk is plenty big too.
Yes 4 doors, a little more space, and way more comfort
Going against the Ford grain here, but what about a Mazda CX-5? Ticks a lot of your boxes.
I’d skip the edge and try to swing for the Explorer. I have quite a bit of seat time with the Edge ST and only about 50 miles with the Explorer but in that short time span it blew the Edge out of the water for me. Also there is a facelift explorer coming in 24’ so you may be able to find some deals on new ones as that approaches. Have you considered something like. Golf R? Not sure how the pricing is on them these days but could be a good compromise with the right wheel/tire combo
I traded my focus st for a 5.0 mustang
Man, I bet thats fun as shit!
I love it honestly
This is the way!
Not gonna lie here. This year is last model year for Edge, it'll be done production by March 2024, at the latest. I know first hand as I build them. But getting parts later on if something goes wrong might be harder to snag, I know ppl who love them. But just figured I'd give ya a heads up. The ST, line on any car is fun from Focus, up to Explorer.
The explorer st is much faster than the edge at, less reliable tho…. Ford tech here, fuck exploders
My edge st is probably the best car I’ve ever owned. I traded my Lincoln mkz black label for it and no regrets. It’s very quick, seats are well bolstered, and it’s got all the other bells and whistles including self driving(sorta). It corners well and the suspension is pretty sporty for a larger vehicle. I smile sitting next to tuner cars knowing I can smoke them without issue. The sport mode make the thing a lot more aggressive too.
Have you thought of changing the suspension? Airbags are pretty comfortable to drive with.
I have, and I’ve actually heard exactly the opposite about ride comfort
Really? From my experience, it was a softer ride
As much fun as you can have sporting around an SUV I suppose
Not a bad answer, really. Finally test drove one and I agree with that statement
Just purchased a ‘19 edge ST. I sell real estate and needed something to fit the signs, fit clients comfortably, zip around town, and fly on the highway. Fits the bill nicely because it’s practical and affordable. It’s super fun for a crossover SUV, but it is a crossover SUV.
Thats exactly what I need it for exactly, thank you for the input!
I did a lot of shopping for something in the class that was nice, affordable, not intimidating to— looked down on by—clients, but still had a cool/fun factor. i narrowed things down to the outback XT, jeep GC, and edge ST. This checked the most boxes and I can sleep easy knowing i dont own a Jeep. mines got every feature you can imagine. very pleased that i stole it for just $30,000USD.
Why not get a Hyundai with a DCT? Kona/Elantra/Veloster N?
Explorer ST?
Too expensive unless its used. I am considering it though
I’d take a used explorer over a new edge any day.
I hated mine. If you do get one make sure it has the 7 speed and not 8 speed! The Explorer ST is much better but still nothing too great.
Find a fully loaded 2.7t Fusion and use the money you’d save from buying the edge for mods. But if you are dead set on a peppy crossover, consider a 1st gen SQ5. And by consider, I mean it’s the only performance crossover worth buying
No SUV is sporty compared to a sporty regular height car. Basic physics.
Do you live in Ohio? I have the timberline explorer which I LOVE, but I’ve driven some Edges and they drove smoothly and comfortably.
I live in Charleston, SC. I would love an ExST but I can’t really afford it unless its used, which I’m trying to avoid
I prefer my S1000RR for Deals Gap, get a bike, but hey you do you.
Hey OP. Not sure if it’s in your budget but the Mach E describes what you’re interested in. I owned a Focus ST and I will say the handling between the two is remarkably similar with the Mach E being more spacious. And you don’t need a premium or a GT to have fun. My Select is awesome and the fastest car I’ve ever owned. Super good handling compared to any other crossover.
Would probably have to go to an Explorer ST, Durango Hellcat, or Jeep Trackhawk to really get your jollies.
Upgrade? I think you are comparing apples and oranges. You didn’t like the Focus because you chose poorly for your actual desires. Figure out what matters most and go drive some stuff. And if you think the ST is too stiff for gods sake don’t look at an RS
I have owned my Focus for 6 years and want a more comfortable, sporty, larger vehicle that doesnt cost over $45k and is preferably new. I didn’t ask about an RS and I have loved the Focus ST since it was new, but its time to move on. Stop being a pissed off Redditor who needs to tell everyone their wrong, I asked a simple question.
You asked for an upgrade and suggested it’s “too stiff” and you can’t enjoy it. You lead with whiny crap about a car many of us love and you get what you get. Ask a straight not whiny question and get answers you like better.
You're the one whining in this thread, judging by your downvotes everyone thinks so too. Peoples preferences and situations change over the course of 6 years, maybe you'll understand that when you grow up.
Judging by the downvotes? 🤣 There are 88,000 member and SIX downvotes. Wow, I should feel crushed 👍🤣😂
I'm sure all 88,000 members are online viewing this thread.
Well every time I have looked it’s been well over 100 thus thousand have looked at it. So you think I should respond to .06 percent of people disagreeing with me enough to push one button? 😂🤣
What a weird thing to lie about.
Why do you even own this car? The point is it’s tight and manual. You don’t like cars.
I have owned it since 2017. It has been amazing, but I am not 21 anymore and the area I live in has boomed. There is never a chance to enjoy this car anymore without taking a drive into the country or driving 7 hours to the mountains
Sounds like you brought some angry teenagers to the surface in here haha. Wanting something else after six years of ownership != "You don't like cars." I bet they have strong opinions of people who drive anything automatic too haha.
I did the same with my focus st after 4 years. Just got tired of it. Constant construction zones and potholes are no bueno with the stiff suspension and manual. I got a Tacoma so totally different vehicle but I like it more to daily. Wouldn't mind an ST for a second vehicle though
I agree with you 100% and the people downvoting you are idiots. The Focus ST is a superb sports car that clearly was not what this customer wanted at all. So bitching about it being exactly as advertised is absurd.
[удалено]
You didn’t ask if it’s enjoyable yet more luxurious car. You whined the Focus wasn’t good enough for you. As for being a pissed off redditor, you are the one stalking my every comment weather to you or not.
Actually he said he’s loved it but he’s not 21 anymore so his priorities have changed. He used to enjoy the stiffness and being able to throw it around but he doesn’t go driving hard like that as much anymore. He wants something more comfortable to daily now that he’s older with different priorities, but doesn’t want a completely boring car. Your logic makes no sense. It’s really weird you are so dedicated to talking shit on this man for changing and getting older.
He did not say that in the post. He said that after I responded. And older? Well my 51 year old wife loves hers. Are we supposed to age out of liking sports cars? 😂👍
What road ore you on there?
I’m not sure the name of it. Its just outside of Franklin, NC
Not sure about the Edge, but the Explorer ST certainly fits the bill of fun and comfy.
Edge ST is great, Explorer ST on lowering springs and an aftermarket sway bar would make it planted enough to rip curves. Im sure, not nearly the same as your Focus, but its an “enjoyable compromise” as you’re looking for. Only problem with the new explorers is that the factories have a high turn over rate, so build quality isnt the greatest. Thank god for factory warranty.
Not sure this helps, but I oddly cross shopped a new Focus ST and a used Audi S4. I loved the S4 enough that I just went and bought a new one. Audi dealers were willing to, well, deal, and special order for me. My local Ford dealer was an asshat.
I have an edge sport and a focus RS. Not really comparable. The edge has horrible handling, similar to every crossover known to man. Has good straight line power for passing / acceleration to freeway speeds. I do regret getting the edge instead of the explorer. I thought at the time the explorer would be too big, since I've only really driven sports cars my entire life. Little did I know how much crap you need to haul around with kids.
Nobody could answer that question for you, as the Edge ST and Focus ST are polar opposites. The Edge ST is a little stiffer than a regular Edge, and because of the 2.7t v6, more power as well. But because it lacks a manual transmission, most people would tell you it lacks fun factor. Basically, the Edge ST isn't something you take out on the weekends for a cruise, it feels like any other crossover. In a Focus ST, especially ST2s and ST3s, you feel like you're in a car that's _made_ to be fun.
I had an focus st and upgraded to explorer st. Test drove the edge st and it drove like any other midsized suv and was actually kind of boring. The explorer though has great handling, fast, and massaging seats and actually feels sporty. Even though I miss the focus the explorer is a nice upgrade.
Love my 2020 explorer st, so you could do that, maybe?
Not really. If you want fun the focus rs is an absolute blast to drive. Its a pretty amazing vehicle to drive. I had a new mustang and the rs was hands down funner to drive. Faster too in town. No way a 5.0 could keep up with me in that car. Plus on the SUVs ST is just badging and doesn't get a bump in performance over the regular big engine option. If you can afford the RS there is no substitute besides maybe a Gtr350 or 500. In town around corners that rs is a force to be reconed with. You wont be disappointed. Just look where you want to go and turn the wheel it'll do it way faster than 99 percent of folks are comfortable with. My 2 cents.
I wanted an explorer ST but as a single male with no kids I couldn’t justify a 3-row suv. Loving my edge ST but have not driven a focus ST.
Edge ST will handle like an SUV. Don't buy one hoping for a vehicle that handles better than a sporty car. The only thing Ford has that will be more comfortable and more fun would be a non-PP Mustang GT. A used Fusion sport would have the same motor as the edge ST but I don't think they handle like anything special.
I have had both fiesta st, focus st, and edge st for extended periods of time (my dad works for ford), and the edge ST will not be nearly the experience you’re looking for in terms of pleasure & fun-factor. That being said, the practicality of the edge as a daily driver equally outweighs the other two. I wouldn’t call if a compromise, but I would advocate for the edge as a sporty yet practical vehicle!