2009 Ford Edge Sport Review

They're big, brash and in your face. At 22-inches, the gleaming 10-spoke chrome wheels on the Edge Sport are the largest wheels ever offered on a crossover, and may very well be the largest wheels available on any stock production SUV regardless of manufacturer.

At 22-inches, the gleaming optional 10-spoke chrome wheels on the Edge Sport are the largest wheels ever offered on a crossover.

The optional oversized wheels along with body-coloured ground effects and large chrome exhaust tips transform the distinct-looking Edge into a real eye-popping showpiece. Along with my tester's Sport Blue Metallic paint, its factory customization had a way of pulling at the eyes like an electromagnet pulling at steel.

Edge Sport - in search of a hip market
Broadening a product's target market makes good business sense but it's not always easy; there have been many failed attempts in the auto industry. Features that appeal to blue-rinse crowd don't generally find much acceptance in the iPod crowd and vise versa.

Despite the grim reality of generation gaps, it appears that Ford has taken a stab at expanding the market for their mid-size Edge crossover into the generation X and Y subsets, and frankly, they may find plenty of success.

The Edge Sport is more upscale, larger and less counter-culture than some other youth-oriented offerings such as Nissan's Cube, Kia's Soul and Honda's Element, yet it seeks to satisfy many of the same "I'm hipper than you" desires found in those less expensive, unconventional rides.

It's not all about being hip
Raising the "hip-ness quotient" requires a solid foundation on which to build, and that's where Ford has the edge. In its root form, the Edge projects an enticing design that sets it apart from many a commoner in the SUV/crossover field.

The spacious cabin is imbued with its own Sport uniqueness, which includes leather-trimmed seats with contrasting Alcantara inserts.

The Edge seats five and is available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD). It offers plenty of versatility due to its mid-size rating and fold flat seats but it is not available with third row seating.

The Edge seats five and is available in front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD).