Can't wait for the self-driving car? With Google and Mercedes prototypes already testing and even Apple preparing to build one, the future looks bright for people who'd rather read a newspaper behind the wheel than pay attention to the road.
With the introduction of the 2015 Ford Edge, the future is closer than you might think.
Introduced amongst the giant cacti around Scottsdale, Arizona, the revised crossover boasts some of the most technologically advanced driver aids on the road today, certainly in the mid-sized segment. But don't pick up that paper just yet; the Edge won't get you to where you want to go on its own, but it will take over almost everything else.
In photos: 2015 Ford Edge inside and out
In addition to a parallel parking-assist feature, the Edge backs itself into parking spots perpendicularly. The car finds a spot, turns the wheel and instructs the driver when to stop, change gear and go again, using front and rear sensors and the backup camera. There's no doubt Ford could have also operated the brake and throttle automatically, but that's left up to the driver -- liability issues have yet to be resolved.
On the road, a brake-assist feature applies the binders in an oncoming collision. Add variable cruise control and a lane-assist mechanism that steers the car back into a lane when it senses you're crossing a line – and this car is as close to a self-driving vehicle as can legally be taken on the road.
The top-tier Titanium and Sport models include these features, though the SE and SEL versions have a variety of safety gear.
For those who still enjoy the art of driving, the Edge won't disappoint. Based on an all-new platform and available front- or all-wheel drive, it has good power and excellent handling considering its height and footprint, with a comfortable ride and quiet cabin.
This is a top-selling vehicle for Ford and, based on an initial drive of the latest version, the pace should continue. The company recently announced an expansion of its Oakville, Ont., plant to meet worldwide demand. The 2015 Edge will appear in Ford showrooms in the spring.
You'll like this car if … You have an active family with an appreciation for comfort, convenience and style.
TECH SPECS
- Base price: $31,999; $45,199 as tested.
- Engines: 2.0-litre Ecoboost four-cylinder, 2.7-litre Ecoboost V-6, 3.5-litre V-6
- Transmission: Six-speed automatic
- Fuel economy: 2.0-litre FWD, 11.5 litres/100 km city, 7.8 litres/100 km highway; 2.7-litre AWD, 13.6/city, 9.8/highway; 3.5-litre AWD, 13./city, 9.6/highway
- Alternatives: Nissan Murano, Toyota Venza, Chevrolet Equinox, Hyundai Santa Fe, Subaru Outback, Mazda CX-9
RATINGS
- Looks: The new Edge is definitely muscular and well-proportioned with its sharper sheet metal. The new grille design is more in line with other Ford vehicles, and it sports a subtle neon-look red line all across the rear (lit up on the higher models). Overall, this is a sporty looking crossover.
- Interior: With leather and aluminum integrated, reworked door panels appear more upscale than in the prior model; the only downfall is a plain-looking centre console, but designers indicated it may be addressed in future versions. Rear passenger leg room improved by a tiny 25 mm.
- Performance: The 315-horsepower, 2.7-litre Ecoboost, available only on the Sport model, gives roaring yet smooth acceleration but even the 245-horsepower, 2.0-litre Ecoboost won’t disappoint drivers. There’s never any want for more power with this smooth-running four-cylinder, and it’s now rated to tow up to 1,587 kilograms. Both handling and ride comfort are excellent for this class.
- Technology: A 180° front camera is useful for moving safely out of a parking spot; active grille slots close for better aerodynamics, and there is a wide choice of options for creature comforts. There are also loads of extra safety features, such as seat belt air bags and a brake-assisted curve control system.
- Cargo: Rear cargo room is up almost 200 litres compared with the last model. Up front, there are enough cubbyholes and compartments to make it easy to forget where you put your phone; door slots completely swallow water bottles.
THE VERDICT
9.5
Slightly bigger than a compact crossover, the new Edge looks and drives better thaN the prior model and offers a range of features to rival more expensive luxury cars.
The writer was a guest of the auto maker. Content was not subject to approval.
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