The Ford Edge has ridden a wave of popularity in the crossover segment, and with good reason. Handsomely styled, spacious, and offering plenty of features and equipment, this mid-sized two-row is a solid choice for small and growing families which aren't yet in need of a vehicle with three rows of seats.
For 2017, the Edge is essentially carried over, but there are a couple of new conveniences to take note of. The Sync3 infotainment system, successor to the oft-criticized MyFord Touch, gains Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for enhanced smartphone interactivity. Buyers who frequently encounter snowfall in winter months will also be happy to learn that the Edge also gains an integrated wiper de-icer when equipped with the Cold Weather Package. There are also a couple of new colours added to the range.
While most crossovers offer a choice of one or two engines, the Edge has three available. The standard engine is a 2.0-litre turbocharged and direct-injected four-cylinder which develops 245 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque. It's available with front- or all-wheel drive; FWD models also receive an engine idle-stop system to save fuel.
The Edge's upgrade option is a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, which produces 280 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard with this upgrade engine; all-wheel drive is an extra-cost option. When equipped with the optional towing package, the Edge V6 can tow up to 3,500 lbs.
Unlike most Sport trim levels, the Edge Sport packs - pardon the pun - an edge over the competition with its twin-turbocharged 2.7-litre V6 engine. This EcoBoost motor puts out 315 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the quickest models in the segment. Standard active steering and all-wheel drive make this a sharper, more engaging drive than most of its competitors.
All Edges feature a six-speed automatic with manual shift mode.
Inside, the Edge features a modern cabin design finished with plenty of soft-touch materials. Most Edges feature the Sync3 infotainment screen with its large 8.0-inch touchscreen display, which lends the cabin a modern appearance, and adds a pair of reconfigurable displays on the instrument cluster. Models with the more basic Sync system receive a smaller 4.2-inch touchscreen display with USB and Bluetooth, plus a standard reverse camera.
While the Edge may not offer three rows of seating, its wide frame makes it perfectly capable of transporting five adults in comfort. There's plenty of rear-seat legroom, and the rear bench reclines for added comfort. Cargo room wth the rear seats up is near if not at the top of its class.
The Edge is available in four trim levels: SE, SEL, Titanium, and Sport.
The SE includes 18-inch wheels, automatic headlamps, keyless entry, climate control, a height-adjustable driver's seat, 4.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system with reverse camera, and a six-speaker sound system.
The SEL adds rear parking sensors, a keyless entry pad, dual-zone climate control, power front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and satellite radio.
The Titanium receives 19-inch wheels, leather upholstery, a hands-free power tailgate, LED tail lights, acoustic side windows, ambient interior lighting, driver memory, and a 12-speaker audio system.
In addition to its more powerful engine and sport-tuned suspension, the Sport trim receives different exterior styling, a power tilt and telescoping steering column, and leather and suede upholstery.
As with many Fords, the Edge is available with plenty of goodies and gadgets, depending on trim level. These range from a full-length power panoramic sunroof and rear seatbelts with inflatable airbags to lane departure warning, radar cruise control with emergency autonomous braking, lane-keeping assist, and a self-parking function.
Pricing for the Edge starts at $33,199 for the base SE FWD, and tops out at $46,499 for the Edge Sport.
