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It seems Ford wasn't finished with announcements for the Edge. This week at the Chicago Auto Show, Ford will unveil the Edge Titanium Elite. This is mostly an appearance package for the Edge with more body-color trim, 20-inch alloy wheels, and a new skid plate. Like other Edge models except for the ST, the Titanium Elite will use the 2.0L EcoBoost four-cylinder with 250 horsepower. Ford wants to take advantage of the growing demand for higher-end SUVs and crossovers. Over the past four years, sales of high-end SUVs for the blue oval rose six percent. The Edge itself saw an eight-percent increase in sales of the Titanium and Sport trims. No mention of pricing, but expect to see the Titanium Elite arrive sometime later this year Source: Ford View full article

Yesterday, we told you about a teaser dropped by Ford for a new ST model. We had a number of guesses ranging from the Focus to the Explorer. Earlier this morning, Ford has revealed the mysterious ST model is the 2019 Edge ST. Taking the place of the Edge Sport, the ST retains the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 but gets a slight power boost - 335 horsepower and 380 pound-feet of torque vs. 315 hp and 350 pound-feet found in the Sport. This will come hooked up to a new eight-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. Ford isn't revealing performance specs, but we're assuming it will slightly quicker to 60 mph than the Sport - hitting 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. The Edge ST also comes with a retuned suspension, tweaked stability control system, and optional performance braking package. The Edge ST's exterior is more aggressive with a mesh grille, 21-inch wheels, new side skirts, and dual exhaust tips. Moving inside, Ford has installed new seats with increased bolstering and a steering wheel with ST badging. “Edge ST puts a new animal on the road – a performance SUV with a track mentality. From a performance standpoint, and with its SUV silhouette and versatility, it sets a new standard Edge fans will love to drive,” said Hau Thai-Tang, executive vice president of Product Development and Purchasing in a statement. The rest of the Edge lineup sees a number of changes for 2019. Outside, the Edge gets a wider grille, LED headlights, reshaped hood, and slightly tweaked rear tailgate. The interior features a new center console design with a rotary gear selector. Under the hood, the 2.0L EcoBoost gets a 5 horsepower bump to 250. This is paired with an eight-speed automatic and a stop-start system. Ford has also made a number of active safety features standard such as blind spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane keep assist, pre-collision assist, and automatic high beams. No word on pricing, but the 2019 Edge will arrive at dealers this summer. Source: Ford Press Release is on Page 2 REVVING UP: FORD DRIVES ALL-NEW EDGE ST INTO SHOWROOMS, ACCELERATING ITS SUV SALES MOMENTUM Following Ford’s best-ever U.S. SUV sales in 2017, Ford further steps up the game by introducing first performance-enhanced ST to its SUV lineup with the all-new Edge ST Edge ST features superior handling and braking, ST-tuned sport suspension, Sport Mode, new quick-shifting 8-speed transmission, standard all-wheel-drive, and the most powerful V6 engine in its class New Edge SUV lineup is Ford’s smartest ever, offering more standard driver-assist technology than any other midsize SUV and introducing to the segment new available technologies such as Post-Collision Braking, Evasive Steering Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering DETROIT, Jan. 11, 2018 – Ford begins introducing the coveted ST brand to its SUV lineup with the unveiling of the all-new Edge ST today, building on its best-ever SUV sales year in the U.S. The all-new Edge ST – Ford’s first SUV to be tuned by the Ford Performance team – features the most powerful V6 engine available in its class with a specially tuned 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost® engine pumping out 335 horsepower and 380 lb.-ft. of torque. It’s also outfitted for dynamic handling with a quick-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, standard all-wheel drive with selectable traction control, an available performance brake package, and ST-tuned sport suspension. “Edge ST puts a new animal on the road – a performance SUV with a track mentality,” said Hau Thai-Tang, executive vice president of Product Development and Purchasing. “From a performance standpoint, and with its SUV silhouette and versatility, it sets a new standard Edge fans will love to drive.” A new Sport Mode allows Edge ST drivers to experience more aggressive throttle response and shifting patterns that hold gears near redline through cornering maneuvers, sharper engine braking, and a more resonant exhaust tone. Drivers can also manually shift using the steering wheel-mounted SelectShift® paddle shifters while firmly positioned in unique Edge ST seating with additional bolstering. To complement its performance abilities, Edge ST features new front and rear styling, a wide mesh grille for optimal cooling, deep side skirts and dual-exhaust outlets. Unique 21-inch wheels are available and interior design cues on the steering wheel, seat backs and scuff plates provide a subtle reminder that this five-passenger SUV is something special. Smart Vehicle for a Smart World The new Edge – including all-new Edge ST – is Ford’s smartest SUV ever, and every model comes standard with more driver-assist technology than any other midsize SUV. This includes Forward Collision Warning and Dynamic Brake Support; Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection; BLIS® with Cross-Traffic Alert; Lane-Keeping Alert; Lane-Keeping Assist; Auto High Beams; and Hill-Start Assist. In addition, standard safety features include AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability Control™ and Curve Control, and 911 Assist®. For 2019, Edge introduces the following first-for-Ford and first-in-segment features as either standard or available equipment: Post-Collision Braking: Helps reduce the impact of a potential secondary collision by automatically applying moderate brake pressure when an initial collision event is detected; slowing the vehicle can potentially lessen injury to occupants and damage to the vehicle Evasive Steering Assist: Helps drivers steer around stopped or slower vehicles to help avoid collisions. Designed to operate at city and highway speeds, it uses radar and a camera to detect slower-moving and stationary vehicles ahead and provides steering support to enable drivers to maneuver around a vehicle if a collision is imminent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering: Helps the vehicle maintain a comfortable driving distance from vehicles ahead and helps reduce stress during long, light-traffic road trips by helping keep the vehicle centered in its lane “Edge drivers expect a sophisticated, modern driving experience,” said Cristina Aquino, Edge marketing manager. “Bringing a host of new technologies as standard and introducing these segment-first features helps ensure customers feel more confident behind the wheel.” Dual-stage airbags, side-curtain airbags, rain-sensing wipers, rear view camera and an innovative active glove box knee airbag are also standard, while front and rear ultrasonic sensors, 180-degree front and rear cameras and Enhanced Active Park Assist are offered as available equipment. Technology for a Connected World Inside, drivers will find an available wireless charging pad nestled in the forward media bin, and they can opt for an upgraded audio experience, HD Radio™ and a 12-speaker B&O PLAY™ Premium Audio System by HARMAN specially tuned for Edge. Standard on all Edge models is FordPass® Connect, with a Wi-Fi hotspot that gives internet access to up to 10 devices. Using the FordPass™ app, drivers can also use their smartphone to start, lock, unlock and locate their Edge. SYNC® with AppLink™, an enhanced voice-recognition communications and entertainment system, is also standard. This system supports the new Ford+Alexa app, giving users access to their favorite media content, daily appointments, smart home controls, and the ability to search for nearby points of interest and even shop for everyday items, all from the road. Drivers can also upgrade to SYNC 3 with an 8-inch touchscreen for enhanced in-vehicle experience. A powerfully sophisticated ride The new Edge comes standard with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine that offers a 5 horsepower increase and improved fuel economy over the outgoing model. It is mated to a newly designed 8-speed transmission with Auto Start-Stop technology that efficiently turns the engine off when the vehicle is stopped and idling, then seamlessly restarts in milliseconds when the brake is released. Inside, a redesigned center console is accentuated by an all-new rotary gearshift dial that frees up space, allows easier access to the wireless charging pad and enhances the vehicle’s modern, sophisticated feel. With a wider grille and freshened fascia that create an athletic, modern appearance, the new Edge maintains the reputation for sophistication it’s carried for more than a decade. Full LED headlamps are standard, LED fog lamps and signature lighting are available and a redesigned hood imparts a wider, more planted stance. Built at the Oakville Assembly Plant in Oakville, Ontario, Canada, the new Ford Edge and all-new Edge ST are due to arrive in showrooms this summer. View full article

FORD POSTS BEST FEBRUARY U.S. RETAIL SALES IN 11 YEARS; BEST-EVER MONTH FOR SUV SALES, LINCOLN SALES UP 30 PERCENT U.S. sales of 217,192 Ford Motor Company vehicles up 20 percent versus last year Ford brand SUVs post best-ever February sales – Edge increases 91 percent, Explorer jumps 18 percent and Escape gains 14 percent Ford F-Series has best February performance since 2006, with sales up 10 percent; Transit sales up 70 percent – best February van performance since 1979 Lincoln total sales jump 30 percent – MKX sales increase 109 percent, providing Lincoln with its best February SUV performance in 15 years DEARBORN, Mich., March 1, 2016 – Ford Motor Company’s U.S. sales were up 20 percent in February versus a year ago with 217,192 vehicles sold. Retail sales grew 11 percent – the company’s best February since 2005. Retail sales gains came across the product portfolio. Cars gained 6 percent, trucks increased 5 percent, and SUVs were up 22 percent. Ford SUV sales last month – the best February in company history – totaled 65,016 vehicles, up 28 percent versus a year ago. Edge jumped 91 percent, Explorer was up 18 percent and Escape gained 14 percent. F-Series sales were strong, too, with 60,697 vehicles sold – a 10-percent increase – marking Ford’s best February for F-Series in a decade. “We saw a solid industry last month and a strong month for Ford, as customer demand for our newest vehicles – including new high-end series on Explorer and Edge – helped Ford increase its average transaction prices at almost double the industry average,” said Mark LaNeve, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Offering more high-end options for truck and SUV customers and having the capability fleet buyers value as they are reinvesting in their fleets are strengthening our business.” Transit sales increased 70 percent last month, with 11,496 vans sold – adding to Ford’s total van sales of 18,407 giving Ford its best February van performance since 1979. Lincoln sales of 8,039 vehicles increased 30 percent, with the all-new Lincoln MKX up 109 percent, helping support the brand’s record February sales. FORD MOTOR COMPANY FEBRUARY 2016 U.S. SALES SALES BY BRAND February % Change Year-To-Date % Change 2016 2015 2016 2015 Ford 209,153 174,219 20.1 375,699 345,951 8.6 Lincoln 8,039 6,164 30.4 15,216 12,783 19.0 Total Vehicles 217,192 180,383 20.4 390,915 358,734 9.0 SALES BY TYPE Cars 66,613 56,081 18.8 116,645 113,042 3.2 Utilities 70,328 54,420 29.2 125,233 107,153 16.9 Trucks 80,251 69,882 14.8 149,037 138,539 7.6 Total Vehicles 217,192 180,383 20.4 390,915 358,734 9.0 FORD BRAND Fiesta 3,754 3,708 1.2 6,314 7,162 -11.8 Focus 18,620 14,019 32.8 31,597 32,497 -2.8 C-MAX 1,370 1,376 -0.4 2,357 2,536 -7.1 Fusion 25,442 22,732 11.9 45,319 42,426 6.8 Taurus 3,807 2,685 41.8 6,919 5,013 38.0 Police Interceptor Sedan 900 714 26.1 1,355 1,392 -2.7 Mustang 9,993 8,454 18.2 17,573 17,148 2.5 Ford Cars 63,886 53,688 19.0 111,434 108,174 3.0 Escape 23,854 20,915 14.1 43,073 40,969 5.1 Edge 12,455 6,526 90.9 21,988 14,107 55.9 Flex 2,334 1,318 77.1 4,325 2,776 55.8 Explorer 20,014 17,027 17.5 34,280 32,022 7.1 Police Interceptor Utility 2,375 1,586 49.7 4,723 3,627 30.2 Expedition 3,984 3,277 21.6 6,839 5,737 19.2 Ford Utilities 65,016 50,649 28.4 115,228 99,238 16.1 F-Series 60,697 55,236 9.9 112,237 109,606 2.4 E-Series 3,873 4,396 -11.9 6,832 7,704 -11.3 Transit 11,496 6,750 70.3 21,127 13,130 60.9 Transit Connect 3,038 2,790 8.9 6,449 6,479 -0.5 Heavy Trucks 1,147 710 61.5 2,392 1,620 47.7 Ford Trucks 80,251 69,882 14.8 149,037 138,539 7.6 Ford Brand 209,153 174,219 20.1 375,699 345,951 8.6 FORD MOTOR COMPANY FEBRUARY 2016 U.S. SALES LINCOLN BRAND February % Change Year-To-Date % Change 2016 2015 2016 2015 MKZ 2,128 1,834 16.0 4,074 3,664 11.2 MKS 599 559 7.2 1,137 1,204 -5.6 Lincoln Cars 2,727 2,393 14.0 5,211 4,868 7.0 MKC 1,746 1,558 12.1 3,182 3,160 0.7 MKX 2,375 1,135 109.3 4,427 2,493 77.6 MKT 234 216 8.3 739 484 52.7 Navigator 957 862 11.0 1,657 1,778 -6.8 Lincoln Utilities 5,312 3,771 40.9 10,005 7,915 26.4 Lincoln Brand 8,039 6,164 30.4 15,216 12,783 19.0

Today at Ford's headquarters in Dearborn, Michigan, the automaker revealed the 2015 Edge. The model which we saw in concept form at last year's LA Auto Show will be sold globally for the first time. The production version of the Edge fits into Ford's global design language. The front is very reminiscent of Ford's SUVs and crossovers with the large grille and distinctively-styled headlights. Around back is a taillight treatment that combines the Fusion and Lincoln MKC. Size-wise, the 2015 Edge is about one-inch longer, and rides on a wheelbase that is four-inches longer. Moving inside, the Edge features the same dash layout as the Explorer. That includes the digital gauge cluster and MyFordTouch system in the center stack. Interior space has been increased by seven cubic feet. Powering the Edge is the choice of three different engines. The base will be the 2.0L EcoBoost four, followed by the 3.5L V6, and the 2.7L EcoBoost rounds out the lineup. Ford hasn't released specs on any of the engines at this time. All engines will be paired to a six-speed automatic and front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is available on all engine choices. Ford has also worked on the driving dynamics of the 2015 Edge. The suspension has been redesigned and more high-strength steel has been used throughout the body to improve stiffness and ride comfort. An adaptive electric steering system is said to make the Edge more maneuverable and dynamic. The 2015 Edge goes on sale in the U.S. in early 2015, followed by other markets. Source: Ford William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. Press Release is on Page 2 All-New 2015 Edge Showcases Ford's Best Technology, More Driver-Assist Features, Improved Performance, Craftsmanship • 2015 Edge will go on sale in North America early next year as a showcase of Ford innovation – from a new design that excites to technology that comforts, the all-new Edge sets a benchmark for Ford utility vehicles • Available driver-assist technologies include adaptive steering system, enhanced active park assist, adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support, 180-degree front camera with washer, glove box-mounted airbag system, inflatable rear safety belts and hands- free liftgate • 2015 Edge will be first Ford vehicle with standard EcoBoost® engine; new Sport model will be powered by most advanced EcoBoost yet – a 2.7-liter V6; premium-level Titanium series joins lineup DEARBORN, Mich., June 24, 2014 – The all-new Ford Edge demonstrates what happens when a proven leader gets even better. The original crossover utility vehicle from Ford is loaded with more technology, higher levels of craftsmanship and greatly improved vehicle dynamics. The 2015 Ford Edge is a better vehicle by every measure. When launched in late 2006, Edge helped to define the crossover sport utility vehicle segment in North America, the biggest such market in the world. With a car-based design, Edge delivered better on-road comfort, fuel efficiency and overall driving dynamics than any truck- based SUV. It was proof a utility vehicle could meet the demanding needs of an everyday commuter. The 2015 Edge revealed today in North America and Europe is all-new from wheels to roof, designed to reset the standard in the two-row utility vehicle market. Based on Ford's successful, global midsize vehicle platform, Edge has been reimagined with a stronger, more athletic shape. It has been retooled to meet higher expectations for quality, and reengineered to add more features and technologies for a more rewarding driving experience. The all-new Edge will be sold in more than 100 markets across the globe. "The original Edge was our first entry into the world of crossover utilities – a technologically advanced vehicle that was the perfect blend of sedan comfort and efficiency with SUV functionality," said Raj Nair, group vice president, Global Product Development. "Now, we are building on that success, and building on the emotional appeal of the vehicle by offering more of the technology our customers want in a package that meets the highest expectations for quality and craftsmanship."  With the new Edge, Ford is also building on its utility vehicle leadership around the world. Last year, the company sold a record 1.2 million utility vehicles in markets across the globe – up 38 percent from 2012. In North America, Ford was the top-selling utility vehicle brand for a third consecutive year in 2013. Ford utility vehicle sales have been strong elsewhere as well, increasing nearly 20 percent in Europe last year. In China, Ford's share of the utility vehicle segment is growing exponentially, increasing to 4.5 percent in 2013 from less than 1 percent in 2012. "For three years in a row, Ford has been the best-selling utility vehicle brand in North America and has been experiencing exponential growth in global markets," said Jim Farley, Ford group vice president, Global Marketing, Sales and Service and Lincoln. "The all-new Edge is the next chapter in this story. And it's a story driven by the emotional appeal of the vehicle – not its feature content." This emotional appeal is enhanced by a wealth of advanced technologies and new amenities. The all-new Edge will go on sale in North America in the first quarter of 2015, with sales following in Europe, South America and Asia Pacific markets. Dynamic all-new body and suspension The 2015 Edge, now based on the same global platform as the award-winning Ford Fusion that debuted in North America in 2012, will deliver the confident, smooth driving experience customers expect from Ford. "The all-new Edge has been remade in almost every single detail, always keeping in mind the customer, who expects something premium, powerful and special," said Judy Curran, vehicle line director for Ford. "With a structure more rigid than ever and a suspension tuned to the highest global standards, the 2015 Edge is a high-tech utility that delivers a special driving experience customers will feel from their first moments behind the wheel." Central to the improved driving dynamics is an entirely new body structure and redesigned suspension – front and rear – developed specifically to better isolate road imperfection and absorb noise without compromising handling. The front-wheel-drive Edge retains a MacPherson-type front suspension, but features an entirely new, sophisticated integral-link independent rear with coil springs and a 23-millimeter antiroll bar. The advanced new system has been tuned to deliver a more dynamic, engaging ride customers will feel immediately. Thanks in part to the use of more high-strength steels, the solid body structure of the all-new Edge provides a far better platform for the new suspension to work. Compared to the 2014 Edge, the new model shows a 26 percent increase in stiffness when reacting to bending forces and a 16 percent increase in stiffness when reacting to twisting forces. This means less noise, vibration and harshness characteristics, giving Edge customers a quieter, more substantial ride. As a result, Edge is well suited for an everyday commute, but ready to attack when the road opens up. All-new adaptive steering technology The all-new Edge will be the first Ford product to feature the company's adaptive steering technology, which will make the vehicle easier to maneuver and more fun to drive.  A standard feature on Edge Sport and available on the new Titanium series, adaptive steering changes the ratio between a driver's actions at the steering wheel – the number of turns – and how much the front wheels turn. In traditional steering systems, this is a fixed steering ratio. With Ford adaptive steering, the steering ratio continually changes with vehicle speed, optimizing steering response in all situations. At lower speeds, such as pulling into a parking space or maneuvering in tight quarters, the new system makes the vehicle more agile and easier to turn, as it dials more steering into the road wheel. Each low-speed maneuver requires less turning of the steering wheel. At highway speeds, the system further optimizes steering response, enabling Edge to react more smoothly and precisely to driver input. Adaptive steering technology can help make any drive more enjoyable. The Ford system uses a precision-controlled actuator placed inside the steering wheel, and requires no change to the vehicle's traditional steering system. The actuator – an electric motor and gearing system – can essentially add to or subtract from a driver's steering inputs. The result is a better, more engaging driving experience at all speeds. Two new engines, for a total of three power options In North America, the all-new Edge will feature three engine options, two of which are new powerplants – a standard twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost® four-cylinder and a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6. A normally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine will also be offered. All will be equipped with dual output exhaust and a six-speed automatic transmission. Edge represents the first Ford vehicle to feature standard EcoBoost power. The twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost, offering an estimated 245 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque, is significantly improved over the previous 2.0-liter EcoBoost. Beyond efficiency advantages, this new engine will also provide more capability. Edge equipped with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost can be specified with newly available all-wheel drive and a towing package capable of hauling a 3,500-pound trailer. Among a host of changes to the 2.0-liter EcoBoost is a twin-scroll design enabling optimized camshaft timing for improved engine performance and reduced turbo lag. A new, lighter engine block casting along with new aluminum balance shaft assembly shaves six pounds from the engine's gravitational weight. Other changes include lighter pistons; a newly designed, integrated exhaust manifold; and a new, high-pressure direct-injection fuel system for finer fuel atomization. These upgrades pave the way for an increased compression ratio of 9.7:1, up from 9.3:1, for improved overall fuel efficiency. Ford's Auto Start-Stop system will also be available with the twin-scroll EcoBoost engine on the new Edge. In heavy traffic, this technology can seamlessly shut down the engine to decrease fuel consumption, reducing tailpipe emissions to zero while the vehicle is stationary and the engine is off. On the other side of the engine spectrum is Edge Sport, with an exclusive, all-new 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine that will provide an exceptional combination of power and efficiency. Setting a new standard in world-class powertrain engineering, this twin-turbocharged V6 is one of the world's most advanced engines. Drawing its design from the best of the efficient Ford EcoBoost lineup, along with the unmatched durability of Ford Super Duty Power Stroke® diesel, this 2.7- liter EcoBoost provides a remarkable combination of advanced materials expertly applied. The 2.7-liter EcoBoost uses the same compacted graphite iron in its cylinder block as is used in the 6.7-liter Power Stroke. This advanced cylinder block allows for a remarkably stiff and compact design that returns exceptionally refined noise, vibration and harshness control. The compacted graphite iron core is mated with a die-cast aluminum engine-block ladder frame and composite oil pan, saving weight by applying advanced materials where they are needed most. The strength of the compacted graphite iron cylinder block allows the 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine to produce impressive power and torque for its size. Compact and efficient, the all-new engine can produce the power and torque of a mid-range V8. Expected to deliver more than 300 horsepower, this 2.7-liter EcoBoost will ensure Edge Sport is the highest-performance Edge ever. The suspension in Edge Sport has front and rear antiroll bars that are 15 percent stiffer than the base model, and unique rear monotube dampers that are larger in diameter. The coil springs are 10 percent thicker. Overall, with improved damping and control, Edge Sport offers 15 percent to 20 percent better road-holding capability, giving the driver more control, sharper steering and greater confidence. Paddle-activated SelectShift puts driver in control All three engines are mated to Ford's SelectShift® six-speed automatic transmission with paddle-shift activation. Drivers will have the ability to manually select gears via race-inspired paddles on the steering wheel. The paddle-shift system is standard on all models. The SelectShift transmission features two modes of operation – drive and sport. Sport mode offers a more aggressive shift pattern, allowing the engine to rev higher during acceleration, and hold lower gears longer to support spirited, fast-paced sessions. Unlike many paddle-shift systems, the Edge six-speed automatic is always "live in drive," so the driver won't have to select sport mode to enable operation. The available all-wheel-drive system for the new Edge is full-time, on-demand and seamless – there are no knobs or switches to activate. An electronically controlled clutch, which can engage faster than a human can blink, transfers power between the front and rear axles, sending up to 100 percent of the power front or back. New level of technology for better driving The 2015 Edge will be a technology leader for Ford, with a suite of standard and available technologies designed to improve the driving experience and the level of occupant comfort. Technologies being offered for the first time include adaptive steering, enhanced active park assist, side parking sensors and a front camera with washer. "The new Edge is a rolling showcase of Ford's commitment to developing and offering the latest, most advanced technology in the business," said Curran. "We know our customers have embraced technology – from smartphones to wearable devices that track their health. Technology is part of their lives. We want to make it part of their driving experience as well." Key technology features include:  • Active Grille Shutters: Available on select models to help counter air resistance • Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support: Uses radar to detect moving vehicles directly ahead and change the cruising speed if necessary • Adaptive steering technology: Most advanced steering system ever from Ford makes Edge easier to maneuver and more fun to drive by optimizing steering response in all conditions • Air curtain: Creates a curtain of air alongside the vehicle using smart duct work, improving aerodynamics at high speed • Auto Start-Stop technology: Turns the engine off to save fuel when the vehicle is stopped, then restarts the engine in milliseconds when the brake is released; specially tuned for Edge • Blind Spot Information System: BLIS® uses radar to trigger a warning when another motorist is in the driver's blind spot • Cameras: New 180-degree front camera with washer featured for first time on a Ford vehicle; standard rear camera • Cross-traffic alert: Uses radar to help alert drivers to oncoming traffic when backing out of a parking space • Enhanced active park assist: Builds on Ford parallel parking technology and includes a system to guide the vehicle into a perpendicular parking space. The system can also steer the vehicle into and out of a parallel parking space • Forward and reverse sensing systems: The systems provide audible alerts designed to help drivers avoid obstacles when parking • Hands-free liftgate: Allows customer to move leg below center of the rear bumper to unlock and raise liftgate • Heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel: Amenities make occupants more comfortable, and every drive more enjoyable • Lane-keeping system: Alerts driver to steer the vehicle back into its lane if the vehicle is allowed to drift • Side parking sensors: uses sensors and algorithms that measure speed and steering wheel angle to warn drivers of obstacles on either side of the vehicle during parking or low-speed maneuvers • SYNC® with MyFord Touch®: Becoming available for more trim levels; standard on Edge Sport and Titanium series Safety technologies available on the new Edge include: • Active glove box knee airbag: Advanced new design uses glove box front to cushion the knees of the front seat passenger in a crash. A pliable, injection-molded plastic bladder is sandwiched between the inner and outer glove box door panels. On impact, a small inflator fills the bladder, extending the glove box outer door panel toward the passenger's legs • AdvanceTrac® with Roll Stability ControlTM: Uses sensors to measure the roll rate of the vehicle and predict its roll angle. Based on this information and measurements from other vehicle dynamics sensors, the system can adjust engine torque and brake pressure at all four wheels to help the driver maintain control of the vehicle • Curve Control: Uses the same sensors as Roll Stability Control to detect and measure roll rate, yaw rate, lateral acceleration, wheel speed and steering wheel angle to help drivers follow their intended path by slowing the vehicle more efficiently while maneuvering a curve • Inflatable rear safety belts: An advanced restraint system that combines attributes of safety belt and airbag technologies. It is designed to reduce head, neck and chest injuries for rear seat passengers in frontal crashes by distributing crash force energy across five times more of an occupant's torso than a traditional safety belt. Inflatable belts are available for second-row outboard seating positions Higher standards for quality and craftsmanship The 2015 Edge will be available in four trim levels. These include SE, SEL, Sport and – for the first time – a top-of-the-line Titanium series to meet market demand for more premium offerings. "We really focused on meeting the highest craftsmanship standards in developing the all-new Edge," said Kim Cape, marketing manager, Ford Large Cars and Utilities. "The idea was to create not just a high-quality exterior and interior, but to give the customer a holistic, premium experience. "The Titanium trim level has been a real success story for Ford – particularly in products such as Fusion, Escape and Flex. Our customers are telling us, 'We are interested in technology and a premium look and feel.' Titanium delivers that." Overall, the 2015 Edge represents a significant move forward in both material and visual quality. Throughout the vehicle, seams are tighter and more consistent, and the design has been executed in a way that reduces visual cutlines. The team worked out the smallest of details, such as rethinking how the front doors meet the instrument panel, simplifying merging points and reducing potential alignment issues. The dashboard and center console have also been carefully designed and shaped to look like one thin, streamlined piece. A central 8-inch LCD touch screen supporting SYNC with MyFord Touch is now available on even more models. Storage areas have been improved throughout the cabin, with a covered media bin on top of the center stack; an open, pass-through-type storage area beneath the climate controls; an open storage area on the instrument panel, below and to the left of the steering wheel; and large pockets on each door. Thanks in part to smart design work and next-generation seats that are thinner and more supportive, the interior of the new Edge is larger and more spacious. Adding further to the feeling of openness, Edge will continue to offer one of the largest sunroofs in the business – Ford's Panoramic Vista Roof, measuring 47.7 inches front to back. Legroom in the first and second row of the new Edge has increased by 1.9 inches and 1.0 inch, respectively. Headroom increases by 1.0 inch throughout. Cargo capacity increases, with 39.2 cubic feet of space behind the second row of seats – 7.0 cubic feet more than the previous model. With the second row folded, space has increased by 4.5 cubic feet, to 73.4 cubic feet. The new Edge is slightly longer and taller than its predecessor, and the wheelbase increases by 1.0 inch, to 112.2 inches. Quieter than ever The all-new Edge is not only more luxurious and comfortable, but also quieter. In wind tunnel tests, Edge proved to be more than 1 sone quieter than its predecessor (a sone is a unit used to measure how loud a sound is perceived). This enhanced quietness is due to better sealing of the body, sound insulation improvements, and powertrains that are better isolated from the cabin and operate in a quieter manner. Acoustic windshield glass is standard on every model. Select Titanium models are even quieter, incorporating acoustic glass on driver and passenger side doors. The twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, for example, has reduced vibration levels when idling compared to the previous version, and is 2 decibels quieter. In moments of heavy acceleration, the revamped engine emits a quieter, more refined sound. This is due to multiple changes including an acoustic wrap to the intake manifold, upgraded heat shield that provides additional sound management and modified oil pump. Edge Sport will be equipped with Active Noise Cancellation technology from Ford to manage and enhance the sound of its powerful 2.7-liter EcoBoost engine. Using three microphones strategically placed throughout the cabin, the system is able to generate opposing sound waves directed through the audio system, enhancing overall cabin ambience. Even the tires have been selected to deliver a better on-road experience. The 20-inch tires available on Sport and Titanium trim levels are a full 2 decibels quieter – reducing unpleasant road noises often associated with larger wheels. Built to be the best The all-new Edge will be built at Ford's Oakville Assembly Complex, near Toronto, where a $700 million (U.S.) renovation has delivered significant improvements to the facility. In preparation for 2015 Edge production, the plant has been fitted with more than 250 new, more advanced robots to improve the build quality and repeatability performance of the equipment. Many of these robots have been installed to work to the most demanding levels of precision – with duties that require thousandths of an inch accuracy to ensure repeatable, high- quality assembly. "Some unique technologies have come into the plant, all of it designed to bring a higher level of quality at a rate that is capable of being repeated," said William Cowell, Oakville Assembly plant manager. "The higher level of complexity in the build process means employees are interfacing with more advanced systems and technology that can significantly improve quality in ways that our customers will be able to see and feel." View full article

By William Maley Staff Writer - CheersandGears.com February 13, 2013 Everyone has been going somewhat crazy with a PowerPoint presentation given to analysts at Deutsche Bank by Ford. The reason? Well, one of the slides in the presentation has a Ford Edge that's not like the current model. That has everyone thinking that the Edge in the presentation is what the next generation model will look like. The somewhat blurry image from the slide shows the Edge keeping its current shape. The only changes are a new front clip with redesigned grille, headlamps, and lower fascia with integrated fog lights. Is this the next-generation Ford Edge? We don't know if it is or not. Source: BlueOvalForums.com William Maley is a staff writer for Cheers & Gears. He can be reached at [email protected] or you can follow him on twitter at @realmudmonster. View full article