Gadgets to the rescue
It's always interesting to see brand new technologies being incorporated into new models. The 2008 Ford Edge certainly offers and eyeful -- and earful. Co-developed by Ford and Microsoft, SYNC allows infinite possibilities by offering hands-free operation and wireless connection between the car and your PDA, cell phone, MP3 player or other similar device.

Other useful gadgets include steering wheel-integrated audio controls and available navigation.

The only thing missing here is probably direct Internet access. But let's give SYNC a chance; after all, this technology is making its very first steps. I'm sure we'll be able to browse the Web while driving the Edge in the near future.

Other useful gadgets include steering wheel-integrated audio controls (which could be bigger) and available navigation.

Comfort is decent. The front seats are high for good visibility; however, the cushions are flat. You can adjust your driving position thanks to a small control on the left side, which did a fair job. Power controls for the seats only allow you to slide them fore and aft; that's simply unacceptable for such a vehicle.

Overall, the seats are nonetheless well set up and access is made much easier as a result. On the other hand, the middle head restraint on the rear bench seat impedes rearward visibility.

The suspension is soft and very comfortable, which provides great ride quality. Unfortunately, the noise level inside is fairly higher than one could expect. The cabin lacks sound-deadening materials... or was it the panoramic sunroof of my tester that let wind noise filter through?

A lot of gusto!
The powertrain chosen by Ford is a good fit for the Edge. With 265 horsepower on tap, the 3.5L V6 delivers satisfying performances. It's powerful enough to allow safe, confidence-inspiring passing maneuvers. Also, the available torque makes for accelerations that are slightly above average. Greater fuel economy would have made my road test more enjoyable, though -- my tester achieved 12.6 L/100 km.

With 265 horsepower on tap, the 3.5L V6 delivers satisfying performances.