2010 Chicago Auto Show: 2011 Ford Edge

Ford gives their mid-size CUV offering a comprehensive refresh inside and out with a new mug, a revised interior, new tech, and even a couple of new power plants.

Some may not like the new face, but I happen to think it’s just fine. The Edge has always had great presence on the road and this new grill just adds to refined, yet rugged, look of the crossover. Add that to the subtly flared wheel arches and the beefy proportions of the overall design and you’ve got yourself a pretty athletic-looking CUV.

On the inside, Ford upgrades the materials and they look great. However, the most convincing evidence of this newness is availability the MyFord Touch system, a touch screen that integrates all radio and HVAC controls into one display. That LCD gauge panel looks smooth as well. I’m a bit old school. I kind of like buttons and analogue gauges, but I get it. I think people are going to like this driveable iPhone stuff. Speaking of which, yes, you still get the beloved Sync with MyFord Touch.

Under the hood, the 3.5 liter V6 that’s been with the Edge since the beginning will remain as the base engine offering 285 hp and 253 lbs-ft of torque. This engine will likely be replaced by the coming 2.0 liter Ecoboost turbocharged engine. Ford hasn’t announced any power figures, but they have said it will have some 30% better fuel efficiency over the aging 3.5 V6. I would also safely assume it will make the same horsepower with peak torque coming in at a lower RPM, improving acceleration.

Not content to simply gussy up the Edge Sport with chrome trinkets, they will be offering the 3.7 liter V6 in this trim. This engine will be churning out 305 hp and 280 torques routed through the only transmission available: the 6 speed automatic. In Sport guise, you get paddle shifters, bespoke sport suspension tuning, bigger brakes, 22′ rims, and new subframe mounts to improve handling.

All in all, I’m liking this revision to the Edge. If nothing else, it’s really nice to see them put some grunt behind the Sport trim. This looks like it’s going to be one serious contender for the Toyota Venza, Chevy Equinox, GMC Terrain, and Honda CR-V. Can’t wait to see that shootout! Check out the pics and video below and let me know what you think.

-Triple_Deuce