Exterior view of 2016 Ford Edge Sport AWD.

Over the years the “crossover concept” has been refined and then redefined by various manufacturers, but Ford really takes it to a classy level with the 2016 Ford Edge, writes our automotive editor Sally Miller Wyatt. – #Siliconeer @Siliconeer #2016FordEdge #Lifestyle

Have you heard the term “crossover vehicle,” but aren’t sure what it means? This market niche began appearing a few years back. For most manufacturers, it represented a blend of passenger car platform with a truck or SUV functionality. It is appealing to those drivers who need that go-anywhere functionality, but might not necessarily like the stiff ride a truck or SUV offers.  Well, over the years this “crossover concept” has naturally been refined and then redefined by various manufacturers, but Ford really takes it to a classy level with the 2016 Ford Edge.

The Ford Edge was first introduced in 2006, and in 2015 it was re-introduced as an all-new version. For 2016, the Ford Edge receives a few tweaks. This model truly defines the term “crossover,” in my humble opinion. Although it is a smallish SUV, it offers a very comfortable on-road drive, a powerful but fuel-efficient engine, and impressive driving dynamics. It’s a utility vehicle that also comfortably fits as an everyday commute vehicle.

The 2016 Ford Edge is based on the same platform as the very popular Ford Fusion. The Fusion debuted in 2012 and has been recognized for its smooth driving experience. This same body structure and suspension is on the SUV-based Edge, and has been designed to absorb rough roads and hefty road noise. It has a newly designed MacPherson-type front suspension with an integral-link independent rear suspension with coil links. This translates to less noise, vibration and harshness, and you will definitely feel this refinement as soon as you hit the road.

The 2016 Ford Edge is available in four trim levels: the SE, SEL, Sport, and a top-of-the-line Titanium series. Our test car was the Edge Sport AWD version.

Exterior view of 2016 Ford Edge Sport AWD.
Exterior view of 2016 Ford Edge Sport AWD.

You have a choice of three engine choices: two of which are new powerplants: a standard EcoBoost four-cylinder, a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, and a 3.5-liter V6. Our test car was equipped with the 2.7-liter V6, and its performance was quite impressive. Smooth as silk at hard acceleration.

Folks keen on the latest in technological advantages will really love the list that’s on board the 2016 models. Offered for the first time are such things as enhanced park assist, side parking sensors and a front camera with a washer. Other key technology features include adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support, which uses radar to detect moving vehicles directly ahead of you and change the cruising speed if necessary; auto start-stop technology, which turns the engine off to save fuel when the vehicle is not moving, then starts again with milliseconds when the foot is off the brake; blind spot information, which uses radar to trigger a warning when another motorist is in your blind spot; standard rear cameras; forward and reverse sensing systems to help you avoid obstacles when parking; a hands-free lift gate; heated and cooled front seats, rear seats, and steering wheel; and a  lane keeping system, which steers the vehicle back into its lane of you drift.

Active safety technologies include an active glove box knee air bag; AdvanceTrac with Stability Control which uses sensors to detect roll rate and help the driver maintain control of the vehicle; curve control; and inflatable rear safety belts, which incorporates a mini-airbag in the belt to reduce head, neck and chest injuries in rear seat passengers.

Both the interior and exterior of the 2016 Edge gains some inches; it is not only slightly longer on the outside, but legroom and headroom has been increased on the inside. It also has one of the largest sunroofs available. It’s dubbed a “Panoramic” and it is 47.7 inches long, from front to rear. This brings in a lot of extra ambient light to the interior of the car.

Interior view of 2016 Ford Edge Sport AWD.
Interior view of 2016 Ford Edge Sport AWD.

Behind the wheel, we found that visibility was very good, the seats for all were firm yet supportive and comfortable, and the dashboard is well laid out. On the road, the driving experience was exemplary.

With its host of safety and technology features, family-friendly functionality and impressive ride and fuel consumption, the 2016 Ford Edge is well worth your consideration.