[dropcap]T[/dropcap]he Ford Edge 2015 is finally rolling into South Florida auto dealer showrooms and expectations for this new version of the crossover sport utility vehicle are high. Auto analysts rate the Edge a better vehicle by every measure.
The 2015 Edge is all-new from wheels to roof with a stronger, more athletic shape. It has been re-tooled to meet higher consumer expectations for quality and re-engineered to add more features and technologies for a better driving experience. In essence, it is a perfect blend of sedan comfort and efficiency with SUV functionality.
The new Edge is based on the same global midsize vehicle platform found in the Ford Fusion that debuted in 2012. Central to its improved driving dynamics is an entirely new body structure and redesigned suspension — front and rear — developed specifically to better isolate rough roads and absorb noise. The front-wheel-drive Edge continues with a MacPherson-type front suspension but has a sophisticated new integral-link independent rear with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. The use of more high-strength steel gives the Edge a solid body structure and a better platform, which means less noise, vibration and road harshness.
Models
Four Edge trim levels are available — SE, SEL, Sport and Titanium. The Titanium is the top-of-the-line series and was developed to meet market demand for luxury equipment and new technology. The Titanium trim level was a success for Ford in the Fusion, Escape and Flex models.
Under the hood
The new Edge has three engine options, two of them new power plants — a standard twin-scroll 2.0-liter 245 hp EcoBoost four-cylinder and a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6. A normally aspirated 3.5-liter V-6 engine continues available. All have dual exhaust and a six-speed automatic transmission, and with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost you can get all-wheel drive and a towing package capable of hauling a 3,500-pound trailer.
For the more sports-minded driver, the twin-turbocharged 2.7-liter 300 hp V-6 EcoBoost engine delivers a superb combination of power and efficiency, making the Sport the highest-performance Edge ever produced.
Key new technology on the Edge includes:
• Active Grille Shutters — Available option to counter air resistance;
• Air Curtain — Smart design and duct work create curtain of air alongside the vehicle to improve aerodynamics at high speed;
• Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support — Radar detects vehicles directly ahead and changes cruising speed if necessary;
• Auto Start-Stop Technology — Turns off engine to save fuel when the vehicle stops, then restarts engine in milliseconds when brake is released;
• Blind Spot Information System — BLIS uses radar to trigger a warning when another motorist is in the driver’s blind spot.
Pricing
The MSRP on the 2015 Ford Edge ranges from $ $28,100 to $40,095.
[author image=”http://www.samaonline.org/Ron.jpg” ]Ron Beasley is the automotive editor for Miami’s Community Newspapers. He may be contacted by calling 305-662-2277, ext. 261, or by addressing email correspondence to LetsTalkCars@aol.com.[/author]
