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WINDYCITYMEDIAGROUP

VEHICLES Updated 2019 Edge helps move Ford away from cars
by Casey Williams, Gaywheels.com
2019-01-01


Ford recently announced it is planning to discontinue virtually all of its cars, save the iconic Mustang. And, a reason it is planning that move are excellent car-based crossovers like the Escape, Explorer, and Edge—vehicles that sell far better than their sedan siblings. Given the Edge's strong position in Ford's future line-up, it made sense to conjure some updates for 2019. We sampled the high-luxe Titanium edition.

You'll have to look close to see updates from the exterior, but a trained eye will spot a revised grille outline and updated facia with standard LED front lighting. Titanium editions get chrome grille slats and satin silver bumper accents. Go full in on the 20" alloys. There was no reason to alter the Edge's overall shape with raked rear window and muscular bodylines, so nobody did. Around back, a revised lower bumper with diffuser look and twin exhaust outlets completes the package.

There's plenty to like inside, where nothing feels cheap. Heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a dual-pane moonroof keep everybody temperate. They'll also appreciate thumping B&O audio, wireless phone charging, Wi-Fi and navigation. It's all controlled via touchscreen with easy-to-understand icons or voice. Apple CarPlay and Alexa compatibility add convenience—as does a new rotary gear selector.

Moving into the new year, there's plenty of standard safety tech: Forward collision warning with pedestrian detection and brake intervention, blind spot warning, and rear cross path detection. Adaptive cruise with lane-centering steering and stop-and-go capability challenges top luxury cars. Automated parallel parking keeps those bumpers shiny.

One can put the F-150's 2.7-liter 335 horsepower turbocharged V6 engine under the Edge's hood, but that's totally unnecessary as the base engine is now a 2.0-liter turbo-four kicking out 250 horsepower and 275 lb.-ft. of torque. That's plenty to move a mid-size crossover, whether front-drive or optionally propelled by all four corners. A new eight-speed automatic transmission and auto stop/start enable fuel economy ratings of 19/26-MPG city/highway.

Either engine produces plenty of power, but it would be great if the Edge offered better fuel economy. It's all a balance of power vs. economy, but an optional four-cylinder with about 170 horsepower would put MPGs over 30. That would be nice for those with softer wallets. As it is, the throttle can be a bit touchy with the base engine, but you get used to it quickly. Beyond the powertrain, the Edge is a pretty nice drive. The suspension provides a comfortable ride, but maintains composure when roads bound and weave.

Time will tell if dropping cars is a smart idea, but nobody will reject the wisdom of putting money into the 2019 Edge to make it even better. A comfy interior, spirited powertrain, and advanced safety tech keep it top of class. A base price of $29,995, or $44,800 all-in, puts it against the Subaru Outback, Hyundai Santa Fe, Jeep Cherokee, GMC Acadia, Nissan Murano, and upcoming Chevy Blazer.

Storm forward!

2019 Ford Edge Titanium

—Five-passenger, FWD Crossover

—Powertrain: 2.0-liter T4, 8-speed auto trans

—Output: 250hp/275 lb.-ft. torque

—Suspension f/r: Ind/Ind

—Wheels f/r: 20"/20" alloy

—Brakes f/r: disc/disc

—Must-have features: Safety, Performance

—Fuel economy: 19/26 mpg city/hwy

—Assembly: Oakville, Ontario

—Base/As-tested price: $29,995/$44,890

For more, visit Gaywheels.com. Send comments to Casey at AutoCasey@aol.com ; follow him on YouTube @AutoCasey.


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