2010 Ford Edge Reviews & Ratings

Acceleration

With front-drive or AWD, Edge has good power from a stop. Ford claims AWD versions do 0-60 mph in 8.4 seconds, which feels about right to us. The transmission is generally responsive, though one test example was hesitant to downshift without a deep stab of the gas pedal.

Fuel Economy

In Consumer Guide testing, AWD Edge models averaged just 12.4 mpg in mostly city driving, 15.4-18.0 in city/highway work, and 20.8 with more highway use. We've not had an opportunity to measure a 2WD Edge. All use regular-grade gas.

Ride Quality

Even with our test examples' 18-inch wheels, Edge smothers bumps better than many competitive crossovers. Some testers say slight float over highway swells taints otherwise fine ride control. We attribute some minor structural shudder over a few bumps to the panoramic sunroof on our test vehicles. The Sport's optional 22-inch wheels result in a noticeably rougher ride, but it is still fairly composed over cracked highway pavement. No Edge models with the 17- or 20-inch wheels have been made available for evaluation.

Steering/Handling/Braking

A softly sprung suspension leads to body lean and tire squeal while taking turns at even moderate speeds. This is countered by good steering feel both in the city and on the highway. The brakes have long pedal travel but deliver drama-free stops.

Quietness

The engine sounds gruff in full-throttle acceleration, but it settles down while cruising and at idle. Some tire noise is evident on coarse surfaces, but it's not enough to be a bother. The panoramic sunroof causes a lot of wind ruckus at highway speeds if it's left in its tilted position. With it fully open, an integrated wind blocker does a decent job of filtering noise to the point where no shouting is necessary in order to carry on a conversation at speeds up to about 70 mph.

Controls

The climate controls are handy and simple to use. The gauges and available navigation screen are easy to read for the most part, but they can lack contrast in certain lighting conditions. As for the navigation system itself, it's easy to program. It absorbs most audio functions but doesn't complicate them.

Details

Hard plastic trim dominates Edge's cabin, but most pieces don't look cheap. Assembly quality is fine. Sport's suede-like seat inserts, contrast stitching, and etched metal trim give the interior added sporty flair.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (Front)

Legroom is ample. Even with the panoramic sunroof, 6-footers will have sufficient headroom. The seats are all-day comfortable. A low dashboard and chair-height seats provide good overall visibility, though the rear headrests partially block the view astern. Sport's seats provide more support with added bolstering.

Room/Comfort (Rear)

The rear bench is supportive and offers generous legroom, knee clearance, and foot space. Only the very tall may find headroom lacking, even with the panoramic sunroof. A reclining seat back is standard and adds to passenger comfort. Entry and exit are no-hassle affairs.

Cargo Room

Edge has generous cargo space, even with the rear seat backs raised. The deck is low, but loading bulky items is complicated by a step-down from the rear sill. The rear seat backs don't fold completely flat, but they conveniently drop forward with the available push-button release located near the tailgate. The seat backs have to be manually raised, however. Cabin storage is very good, highlighted by a large glovebox and cavernous center console that can hold a notebook computer.

Value Within Class

Edge impresses for its car-like ride and generous passenger and cargo room. Base prices are competitive but quickly escalate with options. Edge Sport is a credible alternative to sporty SUVs such as the Mazda CX-7, but it lacks the Nissan Murano's overall sophistication. Give Edge a look, but favor an SE model or a judiciously equipped SEL for the best value for your money.