"2011 Ford Edge blends technology, design and
class-leading powertrains in revamped package."- Ford Motor Company of Canada
The newly re-designed 2011 Ford Edge has been catapulted into The Now. This vehicle is loaded with the latest popular technology: Touch screen In-Dash Navigational System, Sirius® Satellite Radio, and USB, AUX, and 12V power supplies; but Ford didn't stop there. In the Limited model, there are available features such as ambient lighting (which was also available in the Ford Fiesta I test drove late last year) and MyFord Touch™ technology which allows the driver to speak over 10, 000 voice commands without ever having to take their hands off the steering wheel.
MyFord Touch™ driver connect technology gives the driver full control at their fingertips. With two configurable LCD screens within the instrument panel, and an 8-inch touch screen in the centre console, the Edge has easy-to-navigate menus, which provide prompts and tips on how to make phone calls, sets navigational controls, and choose audio settings, allow you to navigate within seconds without taking your hands off the wheel. By pressing one button and saying a simple command like, "Radio, 1-0-2-1", the radi will be tuned to the frequency 102.1.
I have long been a fan of the look of the Edge. I drive past the Ford plant on my daily trek to the office and always look longingly over the fence at the rows upon rows of Edges waiting to be whisked away. I say I've been a fan of the look because, until now, I never had a chance to try one out. Needless to say, despite my rather high expectations (since I have loved it from afar for so long) I was quite impressed. Immediately, I found this vehicle comfortable, easy to navigate and it took no time for me to feel at home.
Ford has safety in mind with a number of class-exclusive standard and available features such as:
Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support, which allows the driver to set the vehicle speed and maintain it without using the brakes or accelerator and also warns the driver of possible collision. But the latest and greatest thing about this cruise control? Using radar, the cruise control reduces the vehicle's speed and engages an electronic brake assist system should a collision be imminent.
Blind Spot Information System, which illuminates within the rearview side mirrors alerting the driver to traffic approaching in blind spots;
and, the crème de la crème?
MyKey technology allows for parents to designate keys, which can limit the top speeds and volume control, encouraging teenagers to drive safer.
Some additional available features include: remote keyless entry, push button start, automatic lift gate and rear view camera, making the Edge one very well-equipped ride.
It's not as big as it seems.
Despite the fact that it is a crossover, I didn't find it overly large or intimidating. The interior is spacious enough that everyone has a comfortable amount of personal space (which is all too important with young boys who feel the need to constantly touch each other), yet we didn't feel like we were miles apart.
The backseats are relatively accessible for the driver for the always-required passing of drinks (yes, I mean drinking boxes) and toys, but leave some to be desired with the placement of the seatbelt buckles and their housing.
My 5-year-old in his booster seat was unable to buckle himself simply because of the location where the buckles fall: they're too narrow and close to the seat for him to maneuver in his seat.
The optional panoramic Vista Roof ® brings more of the outdoors, indoors; encompassing nearly 40 per cent of the car roof, more natural light is available throughout the cabin, which personally, I love. I always have the sunroof cover pulled back to allow light in.
It is hard not to be skeptical about the fuel consumption of these larger vehicles, but I was pleasantly surprised with the 11.2L / 100 km city, which has the Edge achieving best-in-class fuel economy, and bragging rights for the 7.4L / 100km highway. I drove back and forth on a little more than half a tank of gas for the week I had this vehicle, which is far better than what either of my mid-sized crossover vehicles can do.
In the end, I was sad when my test drive was over. I really
enjoyed this comfortable, quiet ride. The Ford Edge is a great vehicle for any
couple or family.
nice vehicle but the price tag indicates it is a luxury vehicle i hope?