2016 Ford Edge

absolutely! AUTO REVIEW |  By Steve Kursar

The 2016 Ford Edge is back at the top of the mid-size crossover category. Last year’s model emerged with an all-new design that went one step further and is even better this year. This updated design demonstrates greatly improved handling, more interior room and significant technology upgrades. This new Edge will make buyers think twice about downgrading in size to a compact crossover.

When the first generation Ford Edge hit the American highway back in the fall of 2006, it was a fresh take on the crossover. It was one of the first crossovers designed with a raised height to look like an SUV, although it was built on a car platform to give it improved handling and better fuel economy. The roomy interior was an instant hit with car buyers, and sales took off. Soon, other car makers saw the light, and mid-size crossovers quickly became the rage. The once revolutionary Edge was looking dated, and even after Ford gave it a major makeover about five years ago, sales still lagged. But the all-new Edge, redesigned from the bottom up, is bringing excited buyers back to the Ford showroom.

The new Edge shares a platform with the new Fusion, a European design that gives this crossover decisive road handling. The exterior design gives it a more athletic stance with an interior that features fit and finish rivaling luxury competitors. Technology such as Active Grille Shutters and Auto Start-Stop helps with fuel economy, while inflatable rear safety belts enhance safety for rear passengers.

The base front-wheel drive Edge, with an MSRP of $28,100, gets the significantly improved 2.0 liter, four-cylinder, twin-turbocharged Ecoboost engine that now delivers 245 hp and fuel economy numbers of 20 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.  More expensive trims allow the buyer to opt for the 280 hp, 3.5 liter V6 engine that will get 18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. The Edge Sport, with a performance tuned suspension and 20 inch tires, gets the 315 hp, 2.7 liter twin-turbo Ecoboost V6 that transforms this crossover into a sports car. All-wheel drive versions are available that offer slightly lower overall fuel economy.

Check out the new Ford Edge if you’re looking at buying a crossover. While compact crossovers are the flavor of the moment, the Edge drives smaller than it looks but with an added bonus of a roomier interior that always comes in handy.

Follow Steve Kursar at KursarOnCars.
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