2008 Ford Edge: Road Test
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2008 Ford Edge ▼
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- MSRP: $25,735 -$32,475
- Invoice: $24,276 -$30,477
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Our road test for the 2008 Ford Edge includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Ford Edge from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Ford Edge, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Ford Edge help you decide if a 2008 Ford Edge is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2WD SEL | AWD SEL w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
With front-drive or AWD, Edge has good power from a stop. Ford claims AWD versions do 8.4 sec 0-60 mph, 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
| 2WD SEL | AWD SEL w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 3.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, AWD Edges 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 gas.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2WD SEL | AWD SEL w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.4 |
Even with our test examples' optional 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 Vista Roof on our test vehicles. We've not had an opportunity to test an Edge with 17- or 20-inch tires.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2WD SEL | AWD SEL w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 4.4 |
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 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5.5 |
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 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
| 2WD SEL | AWD SEL w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6.3 |
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
| 2WD SEL | AWD SEL w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.4 |
Hard plastic trim dominates Edge's cabin, but most pieces don't look cheap. Assembly quality has been fine.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2WD SEL | AWD SEL w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7.1 |
Legroom is ample. Even with the Vista Roof, six-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.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2WD SEL | AWD SEL w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 6.1 |
The rear bench is supportive and offers generous legroom, knee clearance, and foot space. The Vista Roof extends over the rear seat, but only the very tall may find headroom lacking. A reclining seatback is standard and adds to passenger comfort. Entry and exit are no-hassle affairs.
CARGO ROOM
| 2WD SEL | AWD SEL w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 8 | 8.6 |
Edge has generous cargo space, even with the 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 the 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 w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5.7 |
Ford has a lot riding on the success of this crossover, and Edge impresses for its car-like 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 the best value for your money.
Total Score
| 2WD SEL | AWD SEL w/navigation | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 65 | 65 | 63.6 |
Total Score: 65
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