Acceleration

2WD SEL	AWD SEL Plus	Class Average
5	5	5.2

With front-wheel drive or AWD, Edges have decent power from a stop. Ford claims AWD model does 8.4 sec 0-60 mph, which feels about right. The transmission is generally responsive, though one test example was hesitant to downshift without a deep stab of the gas pedal.

Fuel Economy

2WD SEL	AWD SEL Plus	Class Average
5	5	4

Test AWD 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 with a 2WD Edge. All models use regular-grade fuel.

Ride Quality

2WD SEL	AWD SEL Plus	Class Average
6	6	5.5

Even with our test examples' optional 18-inch tires, 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 Vista Roof on our test vehicles. We've not had an opportunity to test an Edge with 17-inch tires.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2WD SEL	AWD SEL Plus	Class Average
5	5	4.5

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 longish pedal travel but deliver drama-free stops.

Quietness

2WD SEL	AWD SEL Plus	Class Average
6	6	5.6

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 Vista Roof causes a lot of wind ruckus at highway speeds if 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.

Controls

2WD SEL	AWD SEL Plus	Class Average
6	6	6.6

The climate controls are handy and simple to use. The gauges and available navigation system 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. Hard plastic trim dominates the cabin, but most pieces don't look cheap.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2WD SEL	AWD SEL Plus	Class Average
7	7	7

Leg room is ample. Even with the Vista Roof, six-footers will have sufficient head room. The seats are all-day comfortable. A low dashboard and chair-height seats provide good overall visibility, though rear headrests partially block the view astern.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2WD SEL	AWD SEL Plus	Class Average
7	7	6.1

The rear bench is supportive and offers generous leg, knee, and toe space. The Vista Roof extends over the rear seat, but only the very tall may find head room lacking. A reclining seatback is standard and adds to passenger comfort. Entry and exit is a no-hassle affair.

Cargo Room

2WD SEL	AWD SEL Plus	Class Average
8	8	8

Edge has generous cargo space, even with rear seatbacks raised. The deck is low, but loading bulky items is complicated by a step-down from the rear sill. The rear seatbacks don't fold completely flat, but they conveniently drop forward with the available pushbutton release located near tailgate. The seatbacks 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

2WD SEL	AWD SEL Plus	Class Average
6	6	5.9

Ford has a lot riding on the success of its newest crossover, and Edge impresses for its carlike ride, and generous passenger and cargo room. Base prices are competitive but quickly escalate with options. Give Edge a look, but favor an SE model or a judiciously equipped SEL for best dollar value.

Total Score

2WD SEL	AWD SEL Plus	Class Average
61	61	58.4

Scores for all Midsize Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score		48
Average Score		58
High Score		69