Ford doesn't bill its Edge crossover vehicle as a luxury model, but when you get this vehicle all decked out in its nicest trim levels, it most certainly is luxurious.
The 2011 Edge has received a refreshed look on the outside, has an upscale look inside, offers superb technology and more power.
To top that off, when you get behind the wheel you'll experience wonderful driving performance.
The Edge has been well received by consumers since it first appeared on the market a few years ago. But Ford apparently did not want to rest on its laurels, choosing to give the crossover a more, well, edgier look for the 2011 model year.
That move has proven to be a success so far. The bolder, sharper look, along with the horizontal-bar grille that is being used on more and more Ford products, are winning rave reviews from critics who have seen the new Edge.
To wit, a motorist on Interstate 75 sped up to catch up with us to give us a big thumbs up as we rolled along in the Edge.
Ford says the new model also has a new sloping bumper and sleeker headlights, along with standard 17-inch aluminum wheels.
Ford also chose to bolster the Edge's power, bringing in three new engines.
The standard power plant is the 3.5-liter V-6 that makes 285 horsepower, a gain of 20 ponies over the predecessor.
There is also a 3.7-liter that makes 305 horsepower.
Both engines are tied to a six-speed automatic transmission.
Front-wheel drive is standard, with an option of all-wheel.
Ford has shown an impressive commitment to raising fuel economy in recent years, and as such is preparing to offer a four-cylinder engine that will have its EcoBoost fuel-saving technology, which also provides ample power.
The 3.5-liter is rated at 18 mpg city, 26 highway by EPA, and the 3.7-liter gets 17 and 23.
The Edge comes in four trim levels: SE, SEL, Limited and Sport.
The interior of the test model, which was a Sport, was gorgeous. The quality of the materials, the lighting and the modern look positioned this vehicle squarely in the luxury category.
Ford has installed its MyFord Touch information and entertainment system in the Edge. Ford says the user interface is modeled after today's smartphones, and you'll pick up on that.
However, don't be surprised if it takes you a little while to get used to how MyFord Touch works. It's not that you have to be a technical engineer, but it's a bit different from other systems you might encounter in other cars.
Also included is Ford's Sync system, which lets you connect with your Bluetooth and MP3 player.
Our only real nitpicky complaint about the Edge was the turn signal. It was one of those that you sometimes find in European models where you can never really tell if it's on or off.
Hopefully Ford can adjust this.
As far as convenience, which is what many crossover drivers want, fear not. This vehicle has nearly 69 cubic feet of cargo space, Ford says.
Plus you can fold down the rear seat very quickly, with the push of a button.
Convenience options include rain-sensing wipers and a power liftgate.
Other optional amenities include the 22-inch polished wheels and the panoramic sunroof.
For safety, the optional blind spot warning system, backup camera and collision warning system are good features to help prevent accidents.
The Edge ranges in price from just under $28,000 to around $40,000.
With this kind of style, performance and utility, the Edge is a most worthy competitor, indeed, in the crossover market.
No comments:
Post a Comment