Europe’s Ford Edge Premium SUV Hits The Market

Ford has shared some fresh details about its biggest and most premium SUV offering in Europe, the new Edge.

The new Edge promises to offer class-leading driving dynamics along with high levels of comfort and technology as part of Ford’s plan to expand its SUV range.

Unlike its US sibling, the Ford Edge in Europe will be available with a choice of two diesel 2.0-litre TDCi engines, a single-turbo 180PS (177hp) and the range-topping biturbo 210PS (207hp). Entry-level models are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox and are capable of a 0-62mph (0-100km/h) in 9.9 seconds with a top speed of 124mph (200km/h) while the auto-only and more powerful 207hp versions offer a 0-62mph in 9.4 seconds and a top speed of 131mph (211km/h). Ford claims that both models return a combined 5.8lt/100km (48.7mpg UK) and 149g/km of CO2 emissions.

All versions feature Ford’s Intelligent All-Wheel Drive system which can adjust the torque split between the axles up to 50-50 in less than 20 milliseconds. “Our Intelligent All Wheel Drive technology means we can take the Edge through territory many customers would be surprised to learn it can handle,” said Derek Ward, technical specialist, Ford Global Advanced Vehicle Dynamics. “All-wheel drive technology is one of the most effective ways to enhance safety and confidence for our customers.”

Ford’s flagship SUV model also takes pride at its offered refinement and low NVH levels with highlights including underbody shielding and special treatment to the front bumper, wing mirrors and rear window to reduce the aerodynamic noise, an acoustic laminated glass for the windscreen, front side windows and panoramic roof and lots of sound deadening material in the headlining and interior panels.

The Edge’s party piece is though the Active Noise Control system, which uses three microphones placed throughout the cabin monitoring engine noise in the cabin and then sending opposing sound waves through the audio system to cancel it.

Ford has also equipped the Edge with the latest technology, with the SYNC2 infotainment system offering voice-controlled assistance for the navigation and the entertainment centre. No less than 18 driver-assisting technologies are also onboard, including Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Adaptive Front LED Lighting System, Front Wide-View Camera, Blind Spot Information System, Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Keeping Alert, Lane Keeping Aid and Driver Alert.

“In three years we will have tripled the number of Ford SUV sales here in Europe,” said Roelant de Waard, vice president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford of Europe. “More customers than ever before are buying Kuga, we have very high expectations for EcoSport, and with Edge joining them in our Ford showrooms we’ll have a full family of utilities, all leaders in design, remarkable technology, smart features and driving dynamics.”