The Ford Edge was introduced in 2006 as an attractive alternative to the “soccer-mom” stereotype that is applied to crossovers like the Toyota Highlander, and hasn’t looked back since. The 2012 Edge offers the 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine available on the SE, SEL and Limited editions. A mid-size crossover SUV seating five people comfortably, the 2012 Ford Edge combines technology with an enjoyable driving experience. However, most of the style offered by Ford is going to be found on the options roster and that equals a lighter wallet.
Choices are king on the Edge and it all starts under the hood with three different engine choices. Ford offers a 3.5-liter V-6, 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 and a 3.7-liter V-6, offered in the Sport edition. After an engine is selected there are four trims to pick from, the SE, SEL, Limited and Sport, each offering different features. The exterior remains the same as the 2011 model with a slight tweaking here and there.
The Range
Body: 5-door SUV
Engine: 3.5-liter V-6, 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4, 3.7-liter V-6 (Sport)
Transmission: Six-speed SelectShift Automatic
Models: SE, SEL, Limited, Sport
What's New
The biggest addition to the 2012 Edge is the EcoBoost engine, which is expected to be the powerplant of choice in the future as the EPA’s emission regulations continue to get tighter. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost alternative engine makes up for its size where it counts with a turbocharger and advanced fuel injection combining for 240 horsepower. The 2012 Edge with the 3.5-liter V-6 has 285 hp and 253 lb-ft of torque.
Exterior
The Edge got a makeover last year, which included a new front grille, wheels and a redesigned bumper. Other tweaks are diminutive but still grab your attention. The headlights are slimmer and a chin spoiler gives the Edge a more pronounced look. The front lip acts as an undershield and also reduces cabin noise by limiting air passing through. From behind the taillights accentuate two 4-inch chrome exhaust pipes that sit closer to the ground and parallel to the lights. Many features on the 2011 model will be shared with the new model year. There is a choice between four different trim levels to dress the Edge in, the SE, SEL, Limited and Sport.
Interior
The interior has been improved with materials that vary depending on which trim is selected. Touch controls have been inserted in place of conventional buttons and switches. The SE comes standard with cloth-trimmed seats, single-zone manual air-conditioning, and MyFord Touch. A 4.2-inch color LCD screen sits at the top of the center stack and a 5-way steering controls system is packed into the SE. Some highlights on the SEL are a power driver’s seat, automatic temperature controls, secondary audio controls and a reverse sensing system. The Limited has leather-trimmed seats, heated power driver’s seat and a Sony audio system with High Definition radio with 12 speakers placed all over. Of course the MyFord Touch is on-board with two 4.2-inch color LCD screens that can be configured by the driver and an 8-inch color LCD sits on top of the center stack. The Ford Sync is included with two USB ports, an SD card reader and video jack inputs. The Limited is topped off with a rear-view camera, seats that fold flat for cargo and rides on 20-inch chrome-clad aluminum wheels. The fourth and final trim selection is the Sport and it includes a 3.7-liter V-6 engine paired with a six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. Leather seats and body-color side lower cladding and rocker molding all come standard.
Performance & Handling
The three new engines are offered for the 2012 model; a 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4, a 3.5-liter Duratec, and a 3.7-liter Duratec engine that will be found in the Sport model (the same one found in the Mustang). The Edge Sport handles the ride-vs.-handling trade-off with the use of high-flow shock absorbers that handle at high-speeds differently than at low speeds. Using high-flow shock absorbers keep the ride quality and an acceptable level. The rear suspension is also in use on the Sport from the large Flex crossover. The SE rides on 17-inch aluminum panted rims while the Sport will ride on 22-inch chrome clad aluminum rims.
Safety
The 2012 model will imitate the one it just replaced and will have a lot of the same safety features. The airbag system uses dual-stage front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags. AdvanceTrac and Roll Stability Control lead the way for safety options offered by Ford. SOS Post-Crash Alert System, blind spot mirrors, four-wheel anti-lock brakes and MyKey, a key that is programmable to set a maximum speed and audio volume, all add a second layer of safety.
The Edge also has the option of adding a rearview camera, adaptive cruise control and Blind Spot Information System. Side air curtain technology known as Safety Canopy System is offered for first and second rows of seating. Hill start assist, a tire pressure monitoring system, and blind spot mirrors all come standard on the 2012 Edge.
EPA Fuel Economy
17-21/23-30 mpg city/highway
You'll Like
You Won't Like
- Early bugs with MyFord Touch
Sum Up
Determined and Sleek SUV
If You Like This Vehicle
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