Ford Edge

   Deciding on what size of crossover to buy can be tricky. Do you get a large crossover for maximum interior space and roomy third-row seating? Or do you get a small crossover for easier urban maneuverability and higher fuel economy? For most, the middle ground is the way to go, which is why the 2013 Ford Edge midsize crossover is a winner with many shoppers.
    It’s no wonder, considering the Edge’s relatively manageable size, its attractive interior and many available high-tech features, like items such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning and cross-traffic alert, a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system, the Sync voice command system and the MyFord Touch electronic interface.
    The Edge’s driving dynamics appear European in character, with a feeling of solidity and low road noise. A 285-horsepower V6 engine is standard, and a fuel-efficient, turbocharged four-cylinder engine is optional. Believe it or not, you have to pay extra to get the four-cylinder, but its strong power and impressive fuel economy (30 mpg highway) make it a smart choice.
    The 2013 Ford Edge is categorized as a midsize crossover SUV with seating for five passengers. It comes in SE, SEL, Limited and Sport trim levels.
    The base SE comes standard with a V6 engine,
17-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a trip computer, reclining rear seats, a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack. The Convenience Package adds rear parking sensors, sub-floor cargo organizer, exterior keypad entry, automatic headlights and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Also optional are satellite radio and the Sync voice-command interface
(including Bluetooth and USB/iPod connectivity) as part of the 101A Option Package.
    The Edge SEL includes all the SE’s equipment along with 18-inch wheels, exterior keypad entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, a USB port, an eight-way power driver seat (includes power lumbar), an “EasyFold” second-row seat and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. The Leather Comfort Package adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, a six-way power passenger seat with manual recline and fold-flat capability.
    Also available are a rearview camera and the MyFord Touch system, which is an electronics interface that includes a large central touchscreen, two secondary screens in the gauge cluster, enhanced steering wheel controls, enhanced Ford Sync features (turn-by-turn navigation and traffic reports) and a second USB port for audio devices. The SEL appearance package adds 20-inch wheels, specific head- and tail lamp treatments,
a body-colored grille and unique leather seating.
    From there, the Edge lineup forks into two directions. The Edge Limited comes with most of the above equipment plus 18-inch chrome wheels, heated mirrors, an eight-way power passenger seat and a twelve-speaker Sony sound system with HD radio. The Driver Entry
Package includes keyless ignition/entry, remote ignition and a power liftgate (available separately on the SEL). You can also choose from 20-inch wheels, xenon headlamps and an adaptive cruise control with a collision warning system.
    The Edge Sport, in contrast, comes with all of the SEL’s standard equipment along with a more powerful V6 engine, 22-inch wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, special exterior styling and the Sony sound system.
    To find out more about the brilliant Ford Edge, schedule a test drive at Tom Wood Ford in Carmel.