First Look: 2011 Ford Edge

Ford's Edge possesses proven to be rather successful for the corporate, less than though deputy editor Joe DeMatio wrote upon its launch, the model did "little to advance the art up of the segment during which it competes." Which can be afflicted by been "business as usual" for the Ford Motor Corporate of yesteryear, but it looks no longer the case currently. Ford thoroughly re-worked the sting for the 2011 model year, plus the final technology, powertrain, and handling enhancements packed back to the hot model can gain be enough to move the Edge to the apex of its category. Technology Perhaps the the majority of appealing enhancement to the 2011 Ford Edge could be the optional MyFord Touch infotainment package. Allowing for MyFord Touch, drivers tend to be provided with a couple of four.2-inch LCD screens that flank the speedometer (just simply favor the Ford Fusion Hybrid) and display pertinent knowledge. The left screen necessarily displays vehicle information, which included fuel economy, tire pressures, and the prestige of a couple of alternative subsystems. The privilege screen, nevertheless, would definitely be added well liked by today's drivers -- it displays information pertaining to the audio system, phone, climate management, and navigation system. Both screen features a dedicated five-way controller mounted during the direction wheel to toggle between displays. Displaying each one that information in the gauge cluster does small to wow your passengers, but they can take note of the massive Eight.0-inch touch-screen display in the center stack, which controls the audio system, phone, climate control, and navigation.
Each of these functions receives a corner of the screen, together together with a distinctive background colour, constructing it simple to establish which screen is active. After all, if touching the screen proves too distracting, the driving force can trigger commands through Ford's Sync voice-activated system. Powertrains The technology isn't always confined to the cabin alone -- the mechanicals under the hood all receive a handful of new features engineered to increase both power and fuel economy. Base Edge models receive a revised 3.5-liter V-6, which now produces 285 hp and 253 lb-ft of torque whereas delivering 27 mpg on the highway. The utilization of dual independent variable camshaft timing grants the 20 hp and three lb-ft spice up over the 2010 Edge's 3.5-liter mill, and also is helping boost fuel economy by approximately 2 mpg. A six-speed automatic channels power primarily to the front wheels, additionally though all-wheel-drive is an decision. More attention-grabbing, however, is the debut of Ford's new 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine. The turbocharged I-4 with direct fuel injection is supposed to offer class-leading fuel economy while not sacrificing power. Ford has however to supply either fuel economy or output figures for the two.0 EcoBoost, but we've got been awfully galvanized with the performance of Ford's different EcoBoost engine, the three.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-6 found in the likes of the Taurus SHO, Flex, and Lincoln MKS and MKT. One potential draw keep, however, is the inability of an all-wheel-drive option. Handling As enthusiasts, we have a tendency to were disappointed in the original Ford Edge's behavior on twisting roads. Crossovers are not intended to be tossed around like sports automobiles, but we continue to expected more composure compared to Ford dialed inch For 2011, Ford created the 18-inch and 20-inch wheels half an inch wider, which explains supposed to counterpoint steering feel. To additional improve handling (to say nada of handling the bigger rolling stock), Ford also adjusted the dampers, is derived, and stabilizer bars across the line. An upgraded brake system comprises bigger rear rotors, different friction materials, different brake booster gain, and a revised pedal ratio. Ford says these revisions ought to provide a stiffer pedal feel, which is the a good amount of welcome improvement. Edge Sport The ones that wish to have the sportiest crossover Ford builds is sufficient to after once more appear to the Edge Sport. For 2011, the model receives a three.7-liter V-6, a bit like the engine utilized in the 2011 Mustang. The slight increase in displacement yields 305 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, but does not requirement premium fuel. The Edge Sport shares its six-speed automatic with the customary Edge models, but receives steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters, and programming that will not force a shift in manual mode -- even if the motive force hits the V-6's redline. Sport models also feature distinctive 22-inch alloys wheels with tuxedo black accents, smoked headlights and taillights, unique body color back and front diminish fascias, body color side skirts, and oval chrome exhaust pointers. Inside, the Edge Sport gains numerous
liquid silver smoke accents, aluminum pedals, and paddle
shifters.