Starting this summer, enthusiasts can purchase the all-new 2019 Edge ST—the first sport utility vehicle designed by Ford Performance. The newest member of the ST family features the most powerful V6 engine available in its class, a specially tuned 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine with 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. This is 20 hp and 30 lb-ft of torque more than the 2017 Edge Sport.
“Edge ST puts a new animal on the road—a performance SUV with a track mentality,” said Hau Thai-Tang, executive vice president of Product Development and Purchasing. “From a performance standpoint, and with its SUV silhouette and versatility, it sets a new standard Edge fans will love to drive.”
Delivering the power is a new quick-shifting 8-speed automatic that’s connected to a full-time all-wheel drive system. The combination of extra output and tight gear spacing will keep the engine in the powerband and deliver brisk acceleration at any speed.
Like all ST models, Ford Performance tuned the suspension for spirited driving. The system has selectable traction control, with a new Sport Mode that delivers aggressive throttle response and shifting patterns. It the system holds gears near redline through cornering maneuvers, produces sharper engine braking, and has a more resonant exhaust tone. Ford also provided a manual shifting option using the steering wheel-mounted SelectShift paddle shifters. SelectShift has proven to be a lot of fun in the 2018 Ford Mustang. Edge ST also sports styled wheels, high-performance tires and an available performance brake package.
The 2019 Edge ST wears clean-looking front and rear fascias, a wide mesh grille for optimal cooling, deep side skirts and dual-exhaust outlets. Unique 21-inch wheels are available and you’ll find interior design cues on the steering wheel, seat backs and scuff plates to provide a subtle reminder that this five-passenger SUV is something special.
Of course, today’s buyer requires more than just performance. With that, Ford made sure Edge ST is the smartest SUV ever. Standard equipment includes Forward Collision Warning and Dynamic Brake Support; Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection; BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert; Lane-Keeping Alert; Lane-Keeping Assist; Auto High Beams; and Hill-Start Assist. Standard safety features include AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability ControlTM and Curve Control, and 911 Assist.
The 2019 Edge also introduces the following first-in-segment (and first-for-Ford) features as either standard or available equipment:
• Post-Collision Braking: Helps reduce the impact of a potential secondary collision by automatically applying moderate brake pressure when an initial collision event is detected; slowing the vehicle can potentially lessen injury to occupants and damage to the vehicle
• Evasive Steering Assist: Helps drivers steer around stopped or slower vehicles to help avoid collisions. Designed to operate at city and highway speeds, it uses radar and a camera to detect slower-moving and stationary vehicles ahead and provides steering support to enable drivers to maneuver around a vehicle if a collision is imminent
• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering: Helps the vehicle maintain a comfortable driving distance from vehicles ahead and helps reduce stress during long, light-traffic road trips by helping keep the vehicle centered in its lane
“Edge drivers expect a sophisticated, modern driving experience,” said Cristina Aquino, Edge marketing manager. “Bringing a host of new technologies as standard and introducing these segment-first features helps ensure customers feel more confident behind the wheel.”
Ford Motor Company is a leader in providing the highest level of technology and connectivity for its owners. This means 2019 Edge drivers and passengers will experience a wireless charging pad located in the forward media bin, and they can opt for an upgraded audio experience, HD RadioTM and a 12-speaker B&O PLAYTM Premium Audio System by HARMAN specially tuned for Edge. FordPass Connect is standard, including a Wi-Fi hotspot that gives internet access to up to 10 devices. Using the FordPassTM app, drivers can also use their smartphone to start, lock, unlock and locate their Edge.
SYNC with AppLinkTM, an enhanced voice-recognition communications and entertainment system, is also standard. According to Ford, this system supports the new Ford+Alexa app, giving users access to their favorite media content, daily appointments, smart home controls, and the ability to search for nearby points of interest and even shop for everyday items, all from the road. Drivers can also upgrade to SYNC 3 with an 8-inch touchscreen for enhanced in-vehicle experience.
The post First Look: 2019 Edge ST With EcoBoost Twin-Turbo appeared first on Hot Rod Network.