The first utility from Ford Performance, the Edge ST, entered the market in 2019. Though the midsize crossover segment is packed with tough competition such as the solid Toyota Highlander, Nissan Murano and Chevy Equinox, the appealing five-passenger Edge has always stood its ground. The ST trim reinforced its established roots.
Under the hood sits a 2.7-liter V-6 EcoBoost engine cranking out 335 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 380 pounds-feet of torque at 3,000 rpm. That’s zero to 60 mph in just under six seconds for an SUV weighing 4,525 pounds. EcoBoost is essentially twin turbochargers and a smaller-displacement engine working in tandem with gasoline direct injection to produce a powerful but fuel-efficient engine. Coupled to the power train is an eight-speed automatic gear box with steering-wheel paddle shifters. All-wheel drive is standard in the ST trim. Guiding the sprightly SUV is an electric power-assist steering while the specially tuned suspension is handled up front by a MacPherson strut and an integral-link with coil springs in the rear.
Conveying a revamped, brawny appearance — and understandably so — is a black wide-mesh grille with LED signature headlights, body-color door handles and dual exhaust tips. Take a seat behind the firm steering wheel and you find yourself staring at a speedometer flanked by two LCD screens. ST badging on the steering wheel and seat backs (as well as on the exterior) is an instant giveaway that this is a performance-oriented ride. Sync3, which accesses audio, telephone, navigation controls via a voice command, eight-inch touchscreen tap or button click, is simple to use. The center console features a practical rotary gear shift dial. Other comforts include dual auto A/C, 10-way power front seats, aluminum sport pedals, 60/40 easy-fold rear bench, overhead sun glass holder and push-button start.
The standard Ford CoPilot360 bundles together driver-assist safety features such as blind spot monitor, cross-traffic alert, pre-collision and lane-keep aid with auto emergency brake, auto high beams and rearview camera. Also included are dual front and side airbags, front knee airbags, side curtain airbag, four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic stability and traction control, front and rear three-point seatbelts, tire pressure monitor and daytime running lights.
As noted, the midsize crossovers are battling hard in a crowded field. But this Ford with its vigor, thanks to a forceful engine, sharp appearance, fun-to-drive character and spaciousness, has an ‘Edge’ over its competition — with performance, to boot!
EDGE ST
Tires: P265/40R21
Wheelbase: 112.2 inches
Length: 188.8 inches
Tow capacity: 3,500 pounds
Fuel capacity: 18.5 gallons
City: 19 mpg
Highway: 26 mpg
Base price: $43,265
Price as tested: $51,195
Web site: www.ford.com
Nitish S. Rele operates motoringtampabay.com and Khaas Baat, and was an automotive editor/columnist for the Tampa Tribune. Email him at motoringtampabay@gmail.com.