Used 2013 Ford Edge

As gas prices rise and car buyers realize they can do more with a little less, the mid-size crossover-SUV segment continues to grow. The 2013 Ford Edge is a Goldilocks vehicle of sorts, filling the gap between smaller haulers like the Ford Escape and bigger, 3-row vehicles like the Ford Explorer. The 2013 Edge comes standard with front-wheel drive (FWD) and can be optioned with all-wheel drive (AWD) for better traction in snow and other slippery environments. The 5-passenger crossover now has three engine choices, including a turbocharged 4-cylinder that is rated up to 30 mpg. The Edge faces stiff competition from the likes of Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot and the revamped Hyundai Santa Fe, all of which can be had with three rows of seats.

All three of the available engines do a fine job of moving the 2013 Ford Edge. The least-powerful but most-efficient engine, the turbocharged 4-cylinder that also does duty in the Ford Escape and even the big Explorer, is a good fit here, never feeling overwhelmed in trying to move the squat vehicle. The 3.5-liter V6 that is standard is a dutiful employee, getting the Edge to speed adequately, while the top-line 3.7-liter V6 with its 305 horsepower effortlessly gets the Ford up freeway onramps in a hurry and has plenty of gusto left for passing once there. The Edge’s steering feels a bit heavy, but handling is good with minimal body roll and a smooth ride. Still, this is no sports car, and is not the kind of SUV to throw into a corner like the BMW X3 or Ford Escape. The cabin is well-insulated from both noise and vibrations, making it a good vehicle for longer trips.

The 2013 Ford Edge is not considered a luxury car like its twin, the Lincoln MKX, but step inside the Ford and you might forget you’re in the blue collar version. The Edge’s optional MyFord Touch telematics system includes customizable displays on both sides of the speedometer, as well as an 8-inch monitor in the center stack. Learning this technology takes time, and models fitted with the large touch-screen panel can prove frustrating when all you want to do is something as simple as adjusting the climate. Front and back, passenger space is abundant and comfortable. Behind the seats, cargo room is good.

The 2013 Ford Edge has a squat, bulldog-like stance that stands apart from boxy and more traditional SUVs whose shapes are often dictated by the addition of a small 3rd-row seat. The Edge’s high beltline and gently sloping rear give the vehicle a tough yet elegant appearance. Large housings make room for wheels ranging in size from 17 inches to a whopping 22 inches. Ford’s 3-bar chrome grille makes a big statement up front, and on top-line Sport models it is blacked out for further distinction. In back, 4-inch dual exhaust outlets give the 2013 Edge and sportier looker.

HD RADIO WITH SONG TAGGING
This subscription-free digital tuner brings in FM stations with higher quality and includes an iTunes tagging feature that lets you mark a song you like so you can download it later. The technology is part of the robust Sync system available in higher-trim Edge models.

VISTA ROOF
This optional feature creates an open feeling to the Edge’s cabin. Over the front seats is a glass panel that slides and opens, while rear-seat passengers can peer through a fixed-window skylight.

A base 2013 Ford Edge SE comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and 6-speed automatic transmission, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD player with audio input jack, cloth seating, reclining 60/40 rear seats, and capless fuel-filler system. SEL models add features like dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power driver’s seat, and 18-inch wheels. Limited models get the MyFord Touch telematics system, upgraded Sony audio system with HD Radio, and leather seats. At the top of the line is the Sport model with a powerful 3.7-liter V6 engine, 22-inch wheels and a rearview camera.

Feature options vary by trim, but among them are the 2-panel Vista Roof, navigation system, adaptive cruise control, DVD rear-seat entertainment system, power liftgate, heated front seats, and a blind-spot monitoring system, as well as all-wheel-drive on V6 models. All trims except Sport can be had with the smaller and more fuel-efficient 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Those wanting to tow can equip the Edge with a Class II trailer package with sway control.

The Edge has a choice of V6 engines and a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder that offers up to 30 mpg and more torque than the base V6. The sole transmission is a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic. The most powerful engine is the 3.7-liter V6 and is reserved for Sport models. Both V6 engines can be had with all-wheel drive, while the 4-cylinder Edge only comes in front-wheel-drive form. All models of the Edge can be equipped for towing. The 4-cylinder Edge has a maximum tow rating of 1,500 pounds, the 3.5-liter V6 can tow up to 2,000 pounds, and the 3.7-liter V6 can handle up to 3,500 pounds.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4
240 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
270 lb-ft of torque @ 3,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/30 mpg

3.5-liter V6
285 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
253 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/27 mpg (FWD), 18/25 mpg (AWD)

3.7-liter V6
305 horsepower @ 6,500 rpm
280 lb-ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/26 mpg (FWD), 17/23 mpg (AWD)