2019 Ford Edge Update Adds Power and Standard High-Tech Safety Features
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The midsized Ford Edge is freshened for 2019, with a revised face, updated powertrain, more entertainment options, and more safety systems.
The most visible change is the wider grille, though what's under the new hood is most significant. Ford managed to increase output from the base 2.0-liter turbocharged engine by 5 hp (to 250 hp) and improve fuel economy.
It achieved this by replacing the six-speed automatic transmission with an eight-speed gearbox and pairing the powertrain with an automatic start/stop system designed to save fuel. The 3.5-liter V6 engine will no longer be offered, Ford says.
Ford is piling on the advanced safety systems, with forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist coming standard. (This addresses a shortcoming with the current model, as we’ve noted in our last road test.)
In addition, there are several innovative safety or convenience systems that include:
Post-collision braking, which applies moderate brake pressure after an impact to reduce the risk of a potential secondary collision.
Evasive steering, which uses radar and a camera to detect slower-moving vehicles and helps maneuver the Edge around them if a collision is imminent.
Adaptive cruise control, which combines stop-and-go abilities with lane centering to help on long trips.
Inside, the most obvious change is replacing the traditional gear shifter with a rotary dial, a move made to the Ford Fusion sedan recently. Less obvious are the numerous added tech features, such as a standard WiFi hot spot, integrated Alexa assistant, and an available wireless charge mat.
The Edge Sport trim is being replaced by the Edge ST, a performance-oriented version with a 335-horsepower, twin-turbocharged V6, eight-speed automatic, all-wheel drive, and sport-focused suspension.
The ST cabin has a sporty ambience, complete with paddle shifters and body-hugging seats with additional support. It is distinguished by unique front and rear styling, side skirts, and 21-inch wheels.
All of these upgrades seem certain to add appeal to the Edge, an SUV that already earns a road-test score at the top of the midsized category. But the Edge has struggled with a middle of the pack Overall Score, hindered by its average predicted reliability and owner satisfaction. Perhaps the additional equipment will make owners happier in the future.
The 2019 Ford Edge goes on sale this summer.
Read our current Ford Edge road test.
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