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2007 Ford Edge: Sharp, Simple, & Stylish
Like an alien invasion, the increasingly popular Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) market is taking over. With consumer sales climaxing by the day, it’s a realm that automakers cannot afford to ignore. From one dynamic to the next, Ford has been successful --Mustang to F-150 that is. But in between, the Detroit native needed a long awaited boost. So now, the Blue Oval has situated itself rightfully with their CUV rendition dubbed the Edge.
 With sales of the minivan segment down from this time last year, consumers are jumping ship for CUVs. Why? Because they provide the same type of utility, ride on car based platforms, usually offer all-wheel drive platforms, have economical engines, and come in a stylish array of options. The Edge, with its loft-inspired design cues, definitely is one that garners attention. While cruising through the San Francisco Bay area during a recent test drive with a “Blazing Copper Metallic” Edge, almost every city dweller took notice of our vehicle. Some even stopped for pictures. The “Urban Loft” theme, according to Edge Chief Designer Doyle Letson, was considered for lifestyle reasons. Said Doyle, “consumers that live in an urban loft want a real city feel. They might shop at Ikea. We gave the Edge an ultra modern look that attracts a lot of light.”
 To evaluate the Ford newborn, we took it up and down the steep hills of San Fran streets and traversed the winding rural roads past the Golden Gate. Engine power is sufficient and passing ability is reasonable. The Edge utilizes a 3.5-liter V6 with 265-horsepower and a 6-speed automatic transmission. You can purchase the vehicle with either FWD or AWD. The all-wheel drive system operates as a front-wheel drive first while applying torque from front-to-rear and side-to-side when needed. Standard “AdvanceTrac” with roll stability control provides an added safety measure. Braking is good but the steering is numb. Yet, most buyers won’t be looking to drive this vehicle like a Porsche or BMW SUV.
 Physically, the Edge looks like it has been working out a little. Its sleek, pod-like shape features the distinctive Ford three-bar chrome grille, fog lights (standard on SEL trim), dual chrome exhausts (SEL), rear spoiler, optional chrome 18” spins, and optional ultra-extended “Vista Roof.” The two-piece glass top fully opens for that convertible like feel.
Take a tour inside and you feel like Ford was listening to your call for driver friendly features, one of which is the standard auxiliary jack located in the center console, which allowed me to bring my Creative Zen MP3 player along for the ride. What a world of difference personal choices lend to the total driving experience! SIRIUS Satellite Radio and a DVD-based navigation system with touchscreen are among additional options. Although I had no problems figuring out the Nav, the screen is a bit small as are the display functions. Additionally, the standard sound system didn’t do much for my listening enjoyment, as the overall sound was tinny and lacked bass. In the back, the kids can watch separate DVDs by way of a dealer-installed headrest entertainment package, which is controlled by functions directly on the 7” screens opposed to those confusing remote controls. A single, 8” flip down unit is available directly from Ford.
 Utility is available via the optional “Seating Flexibility Package,” which allows various seat configurations. The driver seat lays back for those times at the station when your train’s arrival is late. The second row seats also lean back while the front passenger seat folds forward, stretching interior cargo space to accommodate items up to eight feet in length.
Available late November and starting at $25,995 for the SE model and $27,990 for the SEL (FWD), expect the Edge to “edge” out a few of the current CUV offerings on the market.
For Additional Automotive Rhythms CUV/SUV Reviews See:
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