2019 Ford Edge

Despite being on the big end of the mid-size class, the Edge posts competitive fuel economy numbers with front-wheel-drive models scoring an EPA-estimated 22 miles per gallon in the city, 29 mpg on the highway, and 25 combined. All-wheel-drive models achieve a slightly less impressive 21/28/23 mpg (city/highway/combined), while the ST posts 19/26/21 mpg.

Solid handling. Even with the Titanium's larger wheels, the Edge tracks easily down the interstate, offering a well-controlled ride with communicative steering and excellent road feel. What is surprising, given its tall ride height, is the way it steers crisply into corners with surprisingly little body lean, while the strut front/independent multi-link rear suspension also manages to nicely control body motions over rough and uneven pavement.

Sitting atop the lineup, the ST, with the choice of either 20-inch wheels and tires or 21-inchers wrapped in summer rubber, offers a stiffer suspension and weightier steering in Sport mode without punishing occupants over chopping pavement.

A bit touchy at first, we found that the brakes take a bit of getting used to, although they feel more natural with practice, and offer a nice initial bite to the pads and strong stopping power.

Feature rich. At just under $31,000, the base SE trim offers the usual power bits plus 18-inch alloy wheels, LED taillights and daytime running lights, rear privacy glass, keyless push-button start, rain-sensing windshield wipers, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, an 8-inch touchscreen with Sync 3 infotainment, a Wi-Fi hotspot, a CD player, satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity.

The Edge may be missing a third row, but given the choice of those generally cramped quarters or more cargo room, we'd pick the latter all day long. The Edge boasts 39 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row that expands to 73.4 cubic feet with the second row folded – both above average for the class.

At the same time, the interior, though pleasant, is a bit dull and isn't aging as well as the more handsome exterior.

An edge in safety. Unlike a number of competitors, the Edge now comes with a number of advanced safety features across all trims including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, lane keeping assist, and post-collision braking.

SEL, Titanium, and ST trims add standard reverse sensors, along with an option package ($795) that adds adaptive cruise control with stop and go and lane centering, evasive steering assist, and a voice-activated navigation system.

But although the Edge scores a "good" IIHS rating in most tests, headlight quality is rated "poor."

Final thoughts. There are a growing number of mid-size, two-row crossovers, but, among them, the 2019 Ford Edge is near the top – especially when considering the value proposition of the SE model and the long list of standard advanced safety features. At the same time, if you’re looking for a thoroughly modern interior, the Edge falls short of most competitors.

In terms of competition, the Toyota Highlander offers a more spacious interior, more cargo room, and a like number of advanced safety features. The Mazda CX-9 boasts a more premium look inside and out, while the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers more performance choices, including the 360-hp, 5.7-liter Hemi V8 and 475-hp, 6.4-liter Hemi V8.

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