About.com Rating

The Bottom Line

Essentially unchanged since its introduction in 2007, the 2008 Ford Edge represents the blue oval company's take on the midsize crossover. Slotting in a very crowded Ford SUV/crossover lineup, the Edge is a five-passenger uni-body crossover based on the same architecture as Ford's Fusion sedan. The Edge competes with: Nissan Murano; Chrysler Pacifica; Honda Pilot; Toyota Venza; Saturn Vue; Mazda CX-7.




Pros

• Intelligent use of space.
• Quiet ride.
• Stylish design.

Cons

• Fuel economy is just okay at 17 city/24 highway.
• Interior materials not the best.
• Luxury add-ons an afterthought.

Description

• Base prices from $25,735 to $32,845
• Engine: 3.5 liter DOHC 24-valve V6
• Horsepower: 265 @ 6,250 rpm
• Torque: 250 lb-ft @ 4,500 rpm
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic Front Wheel Drive or All Wheel Drive
• Curb Weight: 4,078 FWD; 4,288 AWD
• Fuel Economy: 18/25 FWD; 17/24 AWD
• Wheelbase: 112.2" Vehicle Length: 185.7" Width: 75.8" Height: 67.0"
• Cargo: 69.0 cubic feet Luggage: 32.2 cubic feet
• Warranty: 3-year/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper; 5-year/60,000 miles powertrain

Guide Review - 2008 Ford Edge

Aaron Gold, About.com's Guide to Cars, reviewed the 2007 Ford Edge upon its debut last year. He awarded the new crossover three stars at that time, concluding that "The Edge may be the only radically styled SUV in Ford's stable, but it's not the only one on the market. Were the driving feel as radical as the rest of the car, I'm sure I'd like it a lot better."

A year hasn't changed much for the Edge, which appears for 2008 essentially identical to the 2007 model. My impressions of the Edge were slightly more positive than Aaron's, however. During my week behind the wheel, I began to really appreciate the sprightly performance provided by the 3.5 liter V6 engine, and the smoothness of the six-speed automatic transmission. Edge is not as athletic as the heavy-hitter in the category (in my opinion), the Nissan Murano, but it does feel like it is up on its toes when pushed assertively through the curves. For a two-ton-plus crossover, Edge delivers more fun than expected.

I was less impressed by the Edge's interior. Too many different textures and surfaces, meeting awkwardly at the seams. Unlike the classy Flex, Edge looks like it is trying too hard. At least the use of space is smart, with a big greenhouse amplifying the sense of space. Edge would be a great crossover for claustrophobics.

A small raspberry salute to the wart that masquerades as the control housing for the power rear liftgate. It looks like the afterthought that it is, and doesn't convey luxury in any sense.

Pricing is right in line with the competition, which makes the decision to buy an Edge one of taste. My personal taste would lead me toward the sleeker Murano or Mazda CX-7; you might prefer the Edge's more bulbous styling.