Ford Edge (2016-2019) review - Interior, design and technology
Dash design is shared with other Ford models, but the Edge is comfortable, there's plenty of kit and decent levels of safety tech
Over time, the rest of Ford's range has been given a makeover to look similar to the Edge. Park its biggest SUV next to the mid-sized Kuga and diddy EcoSport, and the family resemblance will be obvious.
Around the back, the one-piece tail light bar from the original Edge has been ditched for the 2019 model year, but the steeply raked rear window and high shoulderlines are still present to give the Edge a premium look. Even base models are highly specced, so 19-inch alloys are standard, while 20-inch wheels are available as an option. The Edge Vignale gets chromed 20-inch alloys and a sparkly grille, plus Vignale badges on the tailgate.
ST-Line models get gloss black detailing and 20-inch wheels. And while the original ‘Electric Spice’ orange paint is no longer offered, there is bright red paint offered, although the rest of the colour palette is rather restrained. We take issue with the fake exhaust tips, however, as Ford hasn’t gone to much trouble to hide the rear items underneath. LED headlights are standard on all cars, with top-spec versions getting matrix LEDs.
Inside, the dash layout will be familiar to anyone who’d driven an S-MAX or Galaxy. It’s almost identical, with the same curved centre console built from rather cheap-feeling plastic. The design is a bit plain when compared to the classy Mercedes GLC, but at least there’s plenty of soft-touch trim on the doors and dash top. The Vignale model is expensive, but only adds a little leather and isn't enough to justify its cost. The digital instruments are smart and clear, too, although there’s an overload of information and settings that can prove confusing.
Safety tech such as Lane Keep Assist, Active City Stop and Traffic Sign Recognition is also standard, which is stuff that you’ll often pay extra for on German rivals. Titanium models feature sat-nav, acoustic glass, chrome roof rails and an electric bootlid, plus heated front seats trimmed in leather. However, only the driver's seat has electric adjustment. Move up to an ST-Line or Vignale, and you get heating and cooling functions.
Sat-nav, stereo and infotainment
Go for the Edge Titanium and you get Ford's SYNC 3 eight-inch touchscreen with sat-nav, DAB radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is the same as you’ll find in the Mondeo and S-MAX. The graphics are bright and clear and its feature-packed.
ST-Line and Vignale models add a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system to this, while all cars feature 2 USB sockets for connecting and charging devices.
