2016 Ford Edge

Last year’s launch of the Edge midsize crossover put Ford back in the spotlight. The third-generation model, now a global product sold around the world, impressed critics with its car-like ride and handling, nicely appointed cabin, and cutting-edge (pardon the pun) technology. In the months since its launch, Ford has addressed several key complaints making this year’s version even better.

If there’s one area of the Edge’s interior that needed improving, it wasn’t the space or the quality of the materials – both are well up to snuff. Instead, it’s all in the technology interface, specifically the MyFord Touch infotainment system with its small buttons and finicky capacitive touch controls. The good news is that Ford has dropped MyFord Touch in favour of a new setup called Sync3. Improved graphics and tablet-style gestures like swiping and pinching make it easier to interact with the bright 8.0-inch display, while normal buttons are featured on the console. The system also features dual USB ports and Siri Eyes-Free, but stops short of full Apple Car Play and Android Auto integration. This setup is standard on the Edge Titanium and Sport, and an option on the SEL trim.

Standard on the Edge Sport and optional on the Titanium is a new variable steering system, which uses an electric motor to adjust the crossover’s steering ratio. The nifty feature, once a hallmark of BMW and Lexus sport sedans, cuts back on steering wheel twirling when maneuvering at lower speeds. In conjunction with standard torque vectoring, the Edge feels more agile than its two-ton curb weight suggests.

More equipment is also included in the Edge this year; all models now get standard proximity key with push-button start, as well as a laminated acoustic windshield for a quieter ride. Edges are generally well equipped though, with added niceties including a leather-wrapped shift knob, paddles for manual shifting, reclining 60/40 rear split folding seats, under-floor cargo storage, reverse camera, display audio system, and 18-inch wheels. Active safety features including emergency autonomous braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree parking camera can all be had.

The colour pallet also shifts – Too Good to Be Blue, Kona Blue, and Shadow Black join the range. Wheel sizes range from 18-inches all the way up to 21 inches on the Sport, with different available finishes.

The Edge is available with one of three different engines. The base engine is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder that’s turbocharged and direct injected. It develops 245 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque and can be had with an available idle-stop system which shaves 0.2 L/100 km off the in-city fuel consumption. Fuel economy for front-drive models is 11.5 L/100 km city and 7.8 L/100 km highway, while AWD sees the figures rise to 11.8 and 8.4 respectively.

Those wanting a bit of extra oomph can select between a pair of V6s. A naturally aspirated 3.5-litre makes 280 hp, while a 315-hp 2.7-litre twin-turbo V6 is also available, though it’s limited to the Edge Sport. The Edge V6 FWD is rated at 13.4 L/100 km city and 9.0 L/100 km highway, while the AWD version ranks in at 13.7 L/100 km city and 9.6 L/100 km highway. Despite its higher outputs, the Edge Sport is just as frugal with a city rating of 13.6 L/100 km city and 9.8 L/100 km highway. Both the four-cylinder and the 3.5 V6 can be had with front-wheel or all-wheel drive, while the more potent Edge Sport gets standard all-wheel drive.

The Edge has much to offer practical-minded buyers – it offers a more dialed-in driving experience than rivals such as the Murano, but its styling isn’t as distinctive. The Edge also boasts a much more commodious cargo bay compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee, but lacks its off-road chops, towing capacity, or efficient diesel powertrain. Meanwhile, the Kia Sorento offers plenty of value and European road manners but trumps the Edge with an available third row of seats. For most, though, the Edge hits the mark which is why it’s one of Canada’s most sought after crossovers.

Pricing for the Edge starts at $33,099 for the front-drive Edge SE with EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, and climbs to $46,399 for the twin-turbo’d Edge Sport.