2009 Ford Edge

Introduction
The Edge crossover SUV has been a huge success for Ford, and it's easy to see why. Although the vehicle is overweight, the styling is terrific, the packaging is excellent, and it delivers decent gas mileage — 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for the two-wheel-drive models, according to the EPA. All-wheel-drive versions, which weigh in at 4288 pounds according to Ford, or 210 more pounds than the two-wheel-drive Edge, return 15 and 22 mpg.

The Edge comes in four flavors: the base SE, the more upscale SEL, the luxurious Limited, and — new for 2009 — the Sport. Although the base SE seems a good value at a starting price of just under $27,000, a fully loaded Sport can push the $40,000 mark when all the options are added. All-wheel drive is available as a $1850 option on all but SE models.

Verdict
In a recent comparison test of five-passenger crossovers, the Edge finished a solid third, or midpack. One of our chief criticisms of the Edge is that it's heavy, which blunts performance from the otherwise fine 265-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 engine that's mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission. Our other complaint is that the Edge can get very expensive when loaded with all the desirable options such as the full-length panoramic Vista Roof and a DVD-based navigation system.

The Edge drives pretty well, with good steering, brakes, and handling, although it isn't quite as carlike as Ford would have you believe. Inside, the Edge is nicely done, using good materials and delivering 32.2 cubic feet of space behind the second-row seats and 69 cubic feet with the seats folded. The vehicle has the full panoply of features that SUV buyers demand: a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, a full-length sunroof, a power liftgate, a power-folding rear seat, and a voice-activated navigation system. Maximum towing capacity is 3500 pounds.

What's New for 2009
The big news for 2009 is the Edge Sport, which adds a body kit, a sport-tuned suspension, and the availability of monster 22-inch polished aluminum wheels with 40-series tires. The stock Sport wheel is an impressively large 20-incher.

Also new for 2009 are a modified Sync system with 911 assist; Sirius Travel Link for the navigation system; an in-cabin ambient lighting system; available 20-inch wheels; and a cargo management system with four hooks, two tie-downs, and a cargo net.

Highlights and Recommendations
The base SE model starts under $27,000 and features a good level of standard equipment. Power windows, locks, and mirrors; air conditioning; 17-inch aluminum wheels; and remote keyless entry are included; but many of the most desirable options aren't available, including the full-length sunroof and all-wheel drive.

Perhaps the best value in the range is the SEL, which adds 18-inch wheels and tires, fog lamps, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with speed and audio controls, a six-way power driver's seat, a power-folding second-row seat, auto-on headlamps, an in-dash six-CD changer, and a reverse sensing system. The Sync system, which integrates your mobile phone into the car's audio, costs $395 and is well worth the expense. The base price is just under $30,000 for the two-wheel-drive version.

The Limited adds even more features, including an upscale nine-speaker audio system, dual-zone climate control, a six-way power passenger seat, the Sync system, leather upholstery, and heated front seats. The base price rises to roughly $32,500. The most desirable options are pricey: the full-length sunroof is $1595, rear-seat entertainment runs $1295, and the voice-activated navigation system is $1995. Twenty-inch wheels and tires add $895, and the power liftgate is another $490.

The Sport starts at $34,020, but we don't really see the point unless you fall in love with the more aggressive look. We think the idea of a sporty crossover SUV is oxymoronic, and the ride quality will likely fall off badly with the optional 22-inch wheels and tires.

Safety
The Edge achieved five-star ratings for its front- and side-impact crash performance from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and is a top safety pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. A stability-control system and anti-lock brakes are standard, and there are front, front side, and curtain airbags.

Content provided byCar and Driver.
For more reviews from Car and Driver, click here.
For automotive news from Car and Driver, click here.