Over the past several months we have had the pleasure of
doing automotive reviews on new vehicle lineups available to the public. I must say, it feels good. Being able to take a
lengthy drive around the proverbial block and get a real feel for what the vehicle has to offer. In years past, purchasing
a new car has always revolved around stepping into the local dealership and getting behind the wheel for about 5-10 minutes.
Luckily for me, I have never made a car buying decision that didn't work out. Taking a new car out for a couple of minutes
does not let you get a real feel for the accessories and features the car has to offer you. You don't get a sense of whether
or not the seating is comfortable long term, or whether the traction is great during inclement weather. So, we have agreed
to do these automotive reviews in hopes that the WonderMoms family can assist you in making what many perceive as being the
second most important purchase next to the new home, a less stressful and more enjoyable decision.
This weeks review is on the 2011 Ford Edge Limited AWD. It's striking new look, smart
new engines and revolutionary new technologies push it into the forefront when considering a family friendly CUV (Crossover
Utility Vehicle). i thoroughly enjoyed this car. Lets start with the engine options it has to offer. Depending on the
trim level you choose, there are two available, starting with the powerful 3.5L Duratec Ti-VCT V6 which produces 285 horsepower
and 253 lb.-ft. of torque. Availability in both FWD and AWD models depending on what your driving needs are. Fuel economy
is a respectable 11.2L/100km city and 7.6L/100km highway driving. The SPORT version is a more peppy 305 horsepower, 3.7L
Duratec Ti-VCT V6 which consumes only 1L more fuel over the same driving conditions. Both considered to be Best In Class
for fuel economy according to Transport Canada ratings.
The
engines come with a 6 speed automatic with optional 6 speed SelectShift Automatic allowing the driver to shift manually through
the gearbox for a more sporty feel. SPORT version is equipped with racing style paddle shifting on the steering wheel. Either
way you want it, neither fails to impress. The Edge has been around for almost 5 years now and has been improved upon each
and every year. Rumours are abound for 2012, a new ECOBOOST engine producing horsepower in the very high 300's. I can't
wait for that one. The ECOBOOST is currently used in other members of the Ford lineup with awesome results in both performance
and fuel economy.
Our test car was a very sharp and sexy Kona Blue Metallic, a cross
between a royal and navy. Amazing look when the bright sunshine was reflecting off it. The driving experience begins inside
the very spacious cabin with comfortable leather seating surfaces, which are adjustable with 10-way power drivers seat including
power lumbar support and memory features. Passenger comfort is not forgotten, 6 way fold-flat power seating for additional
interior storage when carrying longer items. Ford has taken steps over the past several years to become an innovator and leader
when it comes to outstanding technology releases.
The MyFord Touch onboard management system allows driver to control
several safety and convenience functions without taking their hands off the steering wheel. This includes the stereo, GPS
navigation system, bluetooth devices, and all voice activated systems such as having the car call home for you. Very cool
and convenient. A reverse sensing system and a large LCD screen with a view of where you were backing into made getting out
of the driveway or parking space a snap.
Our car was equipped with a media hub which included 2 USB ports,
an SD card reader and video input jacks. Perfect for the modern day techno-geek and their offspring. Hook up a DVD player
or camcorder for those long drives to the cottage or the trip to Florida. The SONY audio system adds a lot of WOW to your
trip also, 12 finely tuned speakers for the audiophile in all of us.
The
kids travelled with me to the store on several occasions while testing this vehicle and especially loved the Panoramic Vista
Roof, which to say it has a sunroof, doesn't do it justice. It is massive! It almost feels like you are driving a ragtop.
It takes up over 40% of the roof area while still giving enough structural support in case of an emergency. The Ford RSC (Roll
Stability Control) keeps the vehicle going in the right direction with proper traction. BLIS (Blind Spot Information System)
uses radar sensors to inform the driver of vehicles it had detected in the surrounding lanes. Safety has become Ford Motor
Company's mantra. They will not rest until every aspect of the car is the best it can be in regards to keeping you and your
loved ones protected. 6 standard second generation air bags and a SOS Post-Crash Alert System which automatically notifies
emergency personnel should you be involved in a collision. The MyKey owner controls lets mom and dad loan the car out with
driving restrictions such as speed and volume limits for the audio system.
The week we had this car, we put it through a number of different
road conditions including slippery, rainy roads and off road gravel where the AWD kicked in and made tire slippage a non factor.
Some of the other features we liked were the power lift gate, power rear fold-flat seats for loading and unloading of larger,
more awkward items and the SIRIUS satellite radio, which gives you up to 120 channels including 100% commercial free listening.
Ford will give you the first 6 months for free.
We have reviewed
the 2011 Ford Flex Titanium, the 2011 Ford Explorer Limited, the 2012 Ford Focus SEL and the 2011 Ford Fusion Hybrid. I must say we have enjoyed each and every one of them. I still want to take the 2012 Ford Escape and perhaps an F150 pick
up out for a spin. Maybe even one or two of the Lincoln vehicles, the pricier, upscale big brothers of the Ford brand. As
I stated at the very beginning, our goal is to make your purchasing decision a little easier. We get the use of these cars
for at least a week, giving us a true understanding of features and benefits they each have to offer. The true measure of
a car's reliability and comfort cannot be seen in a 10 minute test drive around the block with a salesperson in tow.
Until next time, WonderMoms thanks you for reading and stay tuned for further
vehicle reviews. If there are any reviews you would like us to do, let us know and we will see if we can make it happen.
