2011 Ford Edge

The refreshed Ford Edge has sharp new styling, a higher quality cabin and powerful engine options. Best of all, the 2011 Edge offers revolutionary touch controls for the stereo and entertainment systems.

Like its Lincoln MKX platform-mate, Ford gives the 2011 Edge a mid-cycle refresh that makes it one of the most high-tech SUVs on the market. It gets new exterior styling, upgraded interior materials and more powerful engines. But the most exciting new feature is the optional MyFord Touch interface, which replaces the traditional button controls with touchscreens and a five-way controller. It even includes touch-sensitive sliders for the stereo volume and fan speed.

The Ford Edge is more comfortable and quieter than ever. It continues to feature a roomy, easy-to-fold rear seat. However, aside from the MyFord Touch option, the Ford Edgedoesn’t stand out in its class.

With a starting price of about $28,000, Ford puts the Edge right in the middle of the midsize SUV pack. However, its price can quickly skyrocket to the top of the class if you choose one of the upper trims and add options. The Sport model, for instance, starts at nearly $34,000. TheEPA has not yet rated the 2011 Edge. However, the previous model’s base 18/25 mpg city/highway rating is still surpassed by several more affordable competitors.

Other SUVs to Consider

You can save money by considering one of the Edge’s more affordable and efficient competitors. The Toyota Highlander starts at about $1,500 less than the Edge and boasts a higher 20/27 mpg base fuel economy rating. It also offers an optional third row, though that third row is cramped for anyone but children. A drawback is the Highlander’s ho-hum SUV styling, which can’t compete with the Edge’s sleeker looks.

For an even more affordable option, consider the Mazda CX-7. It saves almost $6,000 compared with the Edge’s base price, and it increases fuel economy even more with a 20/28 mpg base rating. Best of all, it comes with much sportier performance and sleek styling.

Details: Ford Edge

If you're interested in the Edge, also consider buying a 2010 model. You could get a big discount simply because the new and improved 2011 Edge is sitting right next to it on the dealer lot. However, you won’t get all the bells and whistles that come with the 2011 Edge.

The 2011 Edge is available in four trims: the base SE, SEL, Limited and Sport. It's available in front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Be sure to check for current Ford deals that may be available on a new Edge.

• "With its updated styling, spiffier passenger cabin and several new powertrain options, the 2011 Ford Edge should be able to hold its own in a crowded midsize crossover category. We've yet to drive the 2011 Ford Edge, but this midsize crossover is certainly going to be more competitive in this crowded category." --Edmunds
• "The 2011 Ford Edge resides in an increasingly competitive automotive segment, but its extensive makeover should pay dividends by keeping the crossover vehicle on the radar of prospective buyers." --Car Gurus
• "Wait for the 2011 Edge. It'll boast the look and technology that'll carry this crossover to the conclusion of its design generation, probably in model-year 2014. More important, it represents Ford's best shot to sustain its midsize-SUV sales leadership in the face of ever-tougher competition." --Iguida

Edge Performance - 7.9 (Good)

With an upgraded suspension and brakes for 2011, the Ford Edge rides more smoothly than ever. It also offers more powerful engines and will eventually offer a powerful and fuel-efficient EcoBoost powertrain. Read More

Edge Exterior - 8.5 (Very Good)

Test drivers praise the 2011 Ford Edge for its upgraded exterior styling, which is less distinctive but more contemporary than the previous model. The Sport model continues to stand out by offering standard 22-inch wheels -- some of the largest offered on a crossover SUV. Read More

Edge Interior - 8.2 (Very Good)

The 2011 Ford Edge's five-seat interior boasts comfort, style and a kid-friendly rear seat. For this year, it also boasts higher quality materials, which remedies a big complaint about the previous model. Even cooler is Ford’s optional new infotainment system, which comes with touch controls rather than buttons. Read More

Edge Safety - 10.0 (Excellent)

The 2011 Ford Edge performed will in both insurance industry and federal government crash tests. Its many standard and available safety features help to increase shoppers' peace of mind even further. Read More

Edge Reliability - 8.0 (Very Good)

The 2011 Ford Edge reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2011 Ford Edge comes with a basic warranty for the first three years or 36,000 miles