For 2016, Ford stocks its Edge SUV with more technology, including an adaptive steering feature and park assist that can handle even perpendicular spaces.
The five-passenger Edge also gets a Sync 3 touchscreen infotainment system that's easier to use, responds faster than its predecessor and has two slick, customizable dashboard displays.
The Edge's dimensions and three engine choices haven't changed, retaining its comfort and a range of power. It's a recommended buy of Consumer Reports, which projects the vehicle's reliability will be “good,” and it earned an overall five out of five stars in the federal government's frontal and side crash tests for occupant crash protection.
The Edge is not as big and unwieldy as a full-size SUV, though it is larger than many mid-size SUVs. In fact, the 40.6 inches of back-seat legroom are as much as some cars provide for front-seat passengers. Up front, there's 42.6 inches of legroom.
All 2016 Edge SUVs come with a six-speed automatic transmission.
The starting manufacturer's suggested retail price, including destination charge, is $29,595 for a front-wheel drive, 2016 Edge SE with the base, 245-horsepower, turbocharged, four-cylinder EcoBoost engine.
The lowest starting retail price, including destination charge, for a 2016 Edge SE with the same engine and all-wheel drive is $31,090.
Ford also offers one non-turbo engine — a 280-horsepower V-6. And the 315-horsepower, twin-turbo EcoBoost V-6 is available only on the top-of-the-line Edge Sport. The good news is the top-end engine doesn't require premium gasoline.
The six-speed automatic shifted smoothly much of the time. The adaptive steering is Ford's next-generation variable ratio power steering and lets drivers select between normal and sport steering modes for both the regular “Drive” gear and the “Sport” gear on the transmission.
