2017 Ford Edge: New Car Review

The 2017 Ford Edge midsize crossover has all the quality, space, equipment, ability and crash test scores to make it a top choice. It's based on the same platform as the excellent Fusion midsize sedan, which means it can blend a smooth ride with a sizable chunk of athleticism. And the whole vehicle is so well executed that it might even sway buyers who were considering the Edge-based Lincoln MKX.

What's New for 2017?

No changes from Ford. The EPA has revised down a few fuel consumption estimates, but only by a mile per gallon.

What We Like

Confident styling; fuel-efficient turbocharged 4-cylinder engine; luxury ride and isolation; premium interior trim; high-tech features; Sport model's strong turbo V6

What We Don't

Transmission could be smoother and quicker; no third-row seat despite substantial size; seat cushions not as well-shaped as they should be

How Much?

$29,845-$41,795

Fuel Economy

All Edge models come standard with a 6-speed automatic transmission (including paddle shifters) and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is an option.

The SE, SEL and Titanium trims start with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, this engine with front-wheel drive achieves 20 mpg in the city, 29 mpg on the highway and 24 mpg combined. With all-wheel drive, consumption is 20 mpg city/27 mpg hwy/23 mpg combined.

SEL and Titanium versions also offer the option of a 3.5-liter V6 developing 280 hp and 250 lb-ft. Fuel economy checks in at 17 mpg city/26 mpg hwy/20 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 17 mpg city/24 mpg hwy/19 mpg combined with all-wheel drive.

The Sport has its own turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 making 315 hp and 350 lb-ft, which is linked to an all-wheel drive system. Fuel consumption is 17 mpg city/24 mpg hwy/20 mpg combined.

Standard Features & Options

The 2017 Ford Edge comes in SE, SEL, Titanium and Sport trim levels.

SE ($29,845) comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, hill-start assist, automatic headlights, rear spoiler, LED taillights, four 12-volt outlets, active grille shutters, rearview camera, push-button start, cruise control, Bluetooth, Sync voice controls, and a 6-speaker audio system with a 4.2-in display, USB port and an auxiliary input.

SEL ($32,685) adds a keypad entry system, auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated side mirrors with puddle lamps, dual-zone automatic climate control, 8-way power-adjustable driver's seat, 6-way power-adjustable front passenger seat, rear parking sensors, satellite radio and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Titanium ($36,495) comes with 19-inch wheels, heated front seats, hands-free power liftgate, keyless entry/start, ambient cabin lighting, 12-speaker Sony audio system, leather upholstery, driver's seat memory settings, and the Sync 3 infotainment system with an 8-in central screen and twin adaptive displays in the gauge cluster.

Sport ($41,795) provides the exclusive turbocharged V6, 20-in wheels, sport-tuned suspension, dark grille and rear diffuser, leather sport seats with suede inserts, aluminum pedals and most of the Titanium's equipment.

Some of the standard items on the upper trims can be added to lower trims via options packages. Other extras, depending on trim, include 21-in wheels, panoramic sunroof, cooled front seats, heated rear seats, navigation, remote ignition, roof rails, adaptive cruise control with a collision mitigation system, perpendicular parking function, xenon headlights, towing package and a rear entertainment system with dual screens.

Cargo space is generous, starting at 39.2 cu ft and expanding to 73.4 cu ft with the second row of seats folded down.

Safety

The Edge comes standard with traction control (including torque vectoring for improved cornering precision), stability control, anti-lock disc brakes, automatic crash notification and eight airbags (front, front-side, front-knee and full-length side curtain). The Ford MyKey system is also standard, allowing owners to set electronic limits for other drivers.

Optional electronic aids include a blind spot monitoring system, forward collision warning (bundled with adaptive cruise control), rear cross-traffic alert, and a 180-degree corner-view camera system.

The Edge was awarded the full five stars overall in government crash tests, including five for front impacts and the same for side impacts. In tests carried out by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Edge scored the highest rating of Good in all categories except for the small-overlap frontal-offset, where it took the second-best score of Acceptable.

Behind the Wheel

This is one of the nicest midsize crossover cabins for the price, with attractive surfaces and high-quality materials almost everywhere. There's plenty of room for four adults (or five at a pinch) to enjoy the exceptionally smooth and quiet ride. For a tall, heavy vehicle, the Edge displays excellent body control, retaining its composure even through quick corners.

The base turbo 4-cylinder is more than adequate for most situations and its fuel economy is a big plus, but the Sport's spirited acceleration could tempt enthusiastic drivers. The standard paddle shifters are a nice touch, although the automatic transmission's downshifts are sometimes slow and unrefined.

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