2018 Ford Edge – Albany, NY

• Overview

  

  With so many choices within crossover and SUV segment, it’s always worth noting when one offering stands out among its in-class competitors. The 2018 Ford Edge is a perfect example of such an offering, being one of the few midsize two-row crossovers available. This also empowers the Edge to stand out among its fellow Ford stablemates, a unique configuration that transitions the lineup from the accessibility of the Escape to the more inspired design of the Flex.

  Positioned against the likes of the Nissan Murano or Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Edge emerges as a more economical option, even at higher trim levels. Without any sacrifices in terms of technology or amenities, it should be at the top of anyone’s short list for a midsize crossover.

  The 2018 Ford Edge is priced to start around $29,220 MSRP. Available in four trim levels (SE, SEL, Titanium, and Sport) it arrives front-wheel drive in all but the Sport trim (whose AWD configuration is optional in the other levels). Seating five passengers, the Edge is also well-equipped in terms of cargo space, making it a versatile choice no matter what the haul.

  245-315

  Horsepower (HP)

  280-350

  Torque (lb-ft)

  73.4

  Max Cargo Space (cu.ft.)

  Starting at

  $29,220

• Performance

  

  The S, SEL, and Titanium trims come equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine mated a six-speed automatic transmission. Rated for 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, this configuration sprints to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds and earns an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined (21 city, 29 highway).

  Optional on the SEL and Titanium trims is a 3.5-liter V6, rated for 280 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque; while the Sport’s twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6 upgrades the output to 315 hp and 350 lb-ft. With a 6.3 second jump to 60 mph, it’s certainly enough to wet palate of speed enthusiasts.

• Safety

  

  In terms of standard equipment, the 2018 Ford Edge boasts a variety of safety features including, but not limited to: antilock brakes, traction and stability control, hill-hold assist, rear camera, 180-degree front camera and a full array of airbags. The full list of features differs depending on the trim level selected, but each is well worth exploring.

  Having earned a top Five-Star rating for overall protection in government crash testing, the Edge fared well in terms of both front and side-impact protection. With similar results determined by the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), the Edge serves up a perfect foundation for safety features to be built upon.

  Additional features include emergency crash notification courtesy of the Ford Sync System, and secondary driver configurations courtesy of Ford’s MyKey which are ideal for families with teen drivers.

  Finally, Ford offers up optional features such as forward collision warning, as well as lane departure warning and mitigation. With blind spot monitoring and automated parking, the Edge offers up countless features designed with assurance in mind.

• Interior

  

  Technology

  In the SE trim level, the Bluetooth-enabled Edge boasts an infotainment system built around a 4.2-inch display screen (with rearview camera) and a six-speaker sound system with CD and USB inputs. The Sync 3 infotainment system is one of the most responsive available and offers smartphone integration through either Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

  Moving up to the SEL trim the sound system is upgraded to include satellite radio and introduces the built-in navigations system that comes standard on the Titanium and Sport trims.

  The Titanium trim reconfigures the Sync 3 infotainment system around an 8-inch touchscreen and 12-speaker Sony sound system, with HD radio. In addition, the hands-free power liftgate makes the Edge far more user-friendly, for loading cargo or groceries. These features carry through to the Sport trim, as well.

  Interior Space

  The design of the 2018 Ford Edge allows for a comfortable, well-designed cabin that speaks to comfort. Offering some of the best-in-class leg and hip room, the Edge feels effortlessly spacious, making it a favorite among drivers and passengers alike.

  From the driver’s seat, the dashboard, controls, and display are framed within sleek contours, giving everything a sleek, modern feel. Refinement is evident throughout every inch, and the cabin experience is enhanced further by optional features like the panoramic Vista sunroof and the ambient lighting option on the Titanium and Sport trims. Personal storage is ample, ranging from small item cubbies to deep storage compartments.

  The Edge also sets itself apart by offering more cargo space than most every one of its rivals. With the seats folded down, it boasts 73.4 cubic feet of space, reduced to 39.2 cubic feet with the seats upright. The rear hatch is wide-enough to provide ease of access, loading and unloading making the Edge well-designed for nearly any kind of cargo.

• Exterior

  

  Taken head-on, the Edge is impeccably on-brand and distinctively Ford. With its badging perfectly accepting its hexagonal shield-like grille, the Edge’s front-end is further accented by its LED running lights and front-end diffuser,

  A walk around the Edge reveals a striking profile, accented by the flow of contoured body panels and a sloped roofline that flows into the rear spoiler. Whether sitting upon 19 or 20-wheels, the Edge presents a sporty wagon-styling, designed to reflect its suitability for daily commute or (properly equipped) off-road adventure.

Is the 2018 Ford Edge Right for You?