See Our Used 2007 Ford Edge Manchester, NH
The Edge has a modern look we find appealing and its bold chrome grille adds to its presence. We're certain most will view the Edge as an edgy SUV more than a car. That's no doubt intentional, designed to be appealing for drivers moving from a traditional SUV who want a rugged look with room for the family and assorted stuff. Meanwhile, those who are moving across from a sedan will find they have not given up too much in the way of comfort and convenience and driving dynamics.
The Edge handles better than the truck-based Explorer while offering almost as much cargo space. Benefiting from all-wheel drive and a fully independent suspension, it's easier to control than a truck-based SUV in the snow or on wet, slippery roads. Also, getting in and out of both the front and back seats is easier. In fact, the back seats in the Edge are roomier than those in the Explorer, a benefit of its design.
The four-wheel disc brakes worked well, although we did not get the chance to try them with a fully loaded vehicle. Ford's AdvanceTrac electronic stability control is standard on all models. It operates via the ABS to control wheel slippage when the driver pushes the vehicle beyond the limit in slippery conditions or in emergency avoidance situation on a dry highway.
Ford's all-new 3.5-liter V6 engine has variable valve timing and is much smoother and more refined than its previous V6s. The new engine is mated to a new six-speed automatic transmission developed with General Motors. We found the engine produced a good range of power at all speeds and the transmission shifted smoothly. We would rate the performance as middle of the pack: it's neither a barnburner nor a slug.
The SEL Plus adds a Premium Package with leather trimmed seats with memory, dual electronic climate control system, exterior puddle lamps, heated seats and exterior mirrors, a particulate air filter, and audio controls on the steering wheel. The Seating Flexibility Package is also included which adds the remote release rear seat back and folding front passenger seat. The SEL Plus is also available with AWD.
The SEL and SEL AWD come with upgraded seat materials, an aluminum surround on the instrument panel, automatic headlights, an auto dimming rearview mirror, fog lamps, dual chrome exhaust tips, and a body colored rear spoiler, mirrors and door handles.
Front-seat occupants find a generous amount of room, again largely due to the vehicle's generous width. There is a large center console with a storage box big enough for a laptop computer. There are two decent cupholders alongside the substantial looking transmission shifter. The center stack is angled outwards to make the large knobs for the climate and entertainment controls easy to reach.
The rear seats offer a decent amount of leg room; in fact there's two inches more here than you'll find in the larger Explorer. Headroom is also reasonable in the rear, even with the optional Sky Vista roof. The rear-center passenger even gets more room than normal in a vehicle of this size, thanks to the wide track. Getting in and out is easier due to the rear wheels being placed well back allowing for less intrusion from the wheel well.
There's no denying that the Ford Edge is a striking vehicle. Some might criticize it for not having three rows of seats but that fact makes for a much more practical and pleasant five-seater. The Edge is a far more efficient all-round vehicle than traditional SUVs. Opt for all-wheel drive and you've got a great all-year-round car as well.
Some information for this review was obtained from NewCarTestDrive.com