Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre

As for the features of the all-new CUV, the Edge possesses a complete collection of safety devices including six air bags, Ford's AdvanceTrac roll stability control, ABS brakes and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). Moving along, the only powertrain choice is a combination of Ford's new Duratec DOHC 3.5L V6 and a 6-speed automatic transmission. The engine develops a pleasing 265 hp and 250 lb/ft of torque. This energy can either motivate the front or all four wheels. Basic SE models receive 17" wheels covered in P235/65R17 rubber while the better appointed SEL gets P245/60R18 tires wrapped around 18" wheels. The SEL is also endowed with leather seating surfaces, a power passenger seat to go along with the standard power driver seat, a reverse sensing system and an Audiophile Sound System with SIRIUS radio and nine speakers.

Behind the wheel
The roads north of San Francisco provided the p

Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre

erfect venue to demonstrate the Edge abilities and shortcomings. Although the drive route was short, certain elements of the new Ford's makeup were evident: it feels solidly built, almost overbuilt and handles twisty mountain roads better than I would have expected. The brakes held up beautifully with a firm pedal. My personal favourite was the steering; it is direct, precise with good weight and sufficient feedback. The suspension is very compliant and comfortable.

Those are the strong points. The weaker, and they will seriously need to be revised by myself when I properly get to test the Edge are the engine and particularly the transmission. The driving situations that we were guided through required many kickdowns, downshifts, much engine braking and some good power. On all of these points, the Edge left me asking for more. I found the transmission to be lazy, slow to react and

Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre

seriously lacking a manual mode to benefit from better acceleration and compression braking. As I have said, I will have to try the Edge in normal circumstances before I really pass judgement on the powertrain.

Will it work?
It has to and I think it will. With a starting price of $32,999 ($34,999 for AWD) for an SE, it seriously undercuts many of its competitors all the while offering more standard equipment, more power and more character. The SEL's pricing is of $35,999 (FWD) and $37,999 (AWD).  If all the work done through the Way Forward plan, the re-tooled Oakville Assembly Complex and the strides that have been taken to improve overall quality, the Edge should not only find many owners but also attract many new potential customers into Ford dealerships.

Good stuff:

Photo: Mathieu St-Pierre

Handling
Distinct styling
Steering

No so good stuff:
Lazy transmission

Competitors:
Nissan Murano
Subaru B9 Tribeca
Mazda CX-7
Toyota Highlander