By Shari Prymak
2016 Ford Edge - I remember when Ford first introduced the Edge back in 2006. As demanded by our SUV-crazed society, the Edge served as a new substitute for the gloomy Freestar minivan. Consumers have embraced the trendy, family-friendly crossover to the point where it is now a global vehicle. In fact, it is one of the few globally sold vehicles that is solely manufactured in Ontario, Canada.
As far as crossovers go, the Edge has a safe design perfect for mass-appeal. My test car was an attractive Titanium model loaded up with options. Among my favorite features were the fast, user-friendly Sync3 infotainment system, back seats which fold at the touch of a button, and the airy panoramic sunroof which covers most of the headliner. The only real shortfall for me was the lack of third row seating, even as an option. The benefit of that omission though is a huge trunk and a roomy second row fine for three adults.
Ford has been building the Edge for a long time, and the constant tweaks and refinements have resulted in a solidly built product. The ride quality, regardless of the condition of the road, is buttery smooth. The cabin is nearly silent when cruising, and totally free of rattles, creaks, and quivers, a testament to the excellent build quality. And although I found the handling to be a bit wallowy in the corners, the level of driving comfort granted by the solid chassis is an acceptable trade-off.
My tester came equipped with the popular 3.5L V6 engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. The engine is very quiet and refined, and pulls the Edge with ease. The transmission too is a smooth operating unit. I found it refreshing that the Edge doesn't come with those pointless paddle shifters to manually select gears. I don't know anyone who uses those in their automatic sports cars, never mind family SUVs. The Edge also offers two turbocharged engines, a 2.0L 4-cylinder unit and a 2.7L V6. It's nice to see the choice, but I'd personally stick with the well-proven 3.5.
To be perfectly honest, I didn't think coming into this test that I would like the Edge. I thought that there was no way it could be worth around 8 grand more than a comparable Escape, or roughly the same money as the equally impressive 7-passenger Explorer. As it turns out, the Edge is a fine vehicle in its own right. It's well built, comfortable, very SUVish, and yet, somehow doesn't look too vulgar or too brash. If you're in the market for a mid-sized crossover and are content with five seats, the Edge is certainly worth a look.