The Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) market is blazing hot these days- and that's good for consumers. Ford realized that it had to up the ante to compete, and they did so with the introduction of the
Edge . This vehicle has exceeded my expectations in two specific ways, the first of which is refinement.
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| The new Ford Edge is a perfect example of refinement. |
The Edge is powered by Ford's new 3.5 litre Duratec V6, producing 265 horsepower. This unit is not the lump that former Duratecs were. It's a modern 24-valve DOHC aluminum powerplant that exhibits far more polish than previous Duratec executions. The engine is mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed autobox. Together this pair delivers smart performance and excellent operational refinement- surprise number one.Surprise number two comes in the form of safety. Regardless of trim level, Ford has equipped all Edges with their AdvanceTrac electronic vehicle stability program complemented with their Roll Stability Control (RSC) system, which uses two gyroscopic sensors to monitor both yaw and roll motions. Should such cutting-edge technology fail to keep the Edge safe and secure, a comprehensive arrangement of standard equipment airbags, including side-curtain airbags for all outboard positions, will protect occupants in the event of a crash. So what didn't meet my expectations? Not much, except for too much hard plastic comprising the dashboard and door panels. The Edge isn't an entry-level CUV, it deserves higher quality materials, which leads to my second concern- price. With Hyundai redefining value in the SUV/CUV segment, Ford may find its Edge on the wrong edge of the price range.
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| Handsome interior should have higher-quality materials. |
Despite my concerns, the Edge is a remarkably pleasing vehicle. It's a well-executed example of why the crossover segment is on fire- metaphorically speaking.
photo: Rob Rothwell