Used 2021 Ford Edge

The 2021 Ford Edge is a 5-seater midsize-crossover SUV. So that puts it in contention with rivals like the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Honda Passport, and Nissan Murano. Solid choices, sure, yet somewhat lacking in spice.

For those looking to buy this kind of vehicle but find their minds wandering after a few minutes of research, here’s the answer. The 2021 Edge — while still sensible, well-equipped, and spacious — also brings a bit of interest and a degree or three of engagement. Unless it’s the Edge ST, in which case minds could be blown.

The Edge isn’t perfect, however. If decent off-road ability is required, investigate the Jeep Grand Cherokee. And although the Honda Passport is more expensive to buy, it holds its value better. But as a road-going crossover SUV that can be sumptuous or sharp, the Edge deserves attention. Just one thing to keep in mind — a new generation is expected for 2022.

The turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine in most versions of the 2021 Edge is certainly up to the task of motivating this hefty midsize-crossover SUV. The ride quality is similarly well-tuned, with a talent for tautness yet also a capacity for comfort.

Those seeking more distinct thrills, though, should check out the 335-horsepower Edge ST. This model’s sport suspension won’t be so forgiving over rough surfaces, but, in concert with the grippy tires and punchy V6, the ST is a rare beast — an SUV that responds well to being pushed, with the ability to attack corners and keep body roll to a minimum.

Our major complaint about any Edge is that outward vision is hampered by wide pillars. We’re glad blind-spot monitoring is standard.

One of the 2021 Edge’s many attributes is its spacious cabin. It’s a 5-seater; Ford hasn’t attempted to cram in a third row. So rear passengers can enjoy a generous 40.6 inches of legroom.

Up front, the center console houses a new vertically oriented 12-inch touch screen along with a rotary gear selector. Titanium trim brings a wireless charging pad, which is optional in the SEL.

The ST’s front seats (with suede-like inserts) have more pronounced bolstering for holding their occupants through quick corners. It also has its own digital instrument cluster.

Luggage space measures 39.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats. This area increases to 73.4 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded.

Although the 2021 Edge is a mainstream model, there’s a touch of premium about it. Things like 18-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights and taillights are standard right from the entry-level SE trim.

The Edge is quite wide, which is great for shoulder room and chassis stability alike. But tight parking spaces will call for utmost care and attention.

The ST version comes with a gloss-black grille and matching fog-light surrounds, plus black bezels in the headlights and dual exhaust outlets. It’s also available in a dedicated Performance Blue. The ST-Line has similar cosmetic details to the ST, including 20-inch alloy wheels.

Two new colors become available this year: Carbonized Gray and Lithium Gray.

2.7-LITER ECOBOOST ENGINE
Admittedly, this turbocharged 335-horsepower V6 is available only in the enthusiast-oriented 2021 Edge ST. But, along with a sport suspension, it turns the Edge into an engaging crossover/SUV with real performance. No rival can offer anything similar.

SYNC 4A INFOTAINMENT SYSTEM
Sync 4A is the latest evolution of an excellent user-friendly setup. It includes Alexa compatibility (Amazon’s digital assistant), and the Apple CarPlay/Android Auto feature works with the Waze traffic/navigation app. This year, every version of the Ford Edge gains a 12-inch screen, two more USB ports (adding up to four, including one Type-C), wireless smartphone integration, conversational voice recognition, and over-the-air updates.

Anyone buying a new Ford Edge will be pleased to discover a high level of standard features. These include Wi-Fi for up to 10 devices, satellite radio, LED exterior lighting, rain-sensing wipers, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote start/lock/unlock, and keyless entry/ignition. Even the rearview camera has its own little washer jet. New equipment for 2021 includes rear parking sensors, acoustic glass for the front side windows, and the updated Sync 4A infotainment system.

The Ford Co-Pilot360 array of driver aids is also part of the deal, bringing forward-collision mitigation with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high beams.

Higher trims bring more comfort and convenience touches, such as hands-free tailgate operation, leather upholstery, and larger alloy wheels.

Each version of the 2021 Edge is eligible for all-wheel drive, except for the ST, which has it as standard. And all versions may be ordered with a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment setup.

It’s at the SEL level where the Edge becomes eligible for a panoramic glass roof, a 110-volt power outlet, heated front seats/steering wheel, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.

Most of those items are already in the Titanium model, whose options include heated rear seats, parking assistance, and a power-adjustable steering column. ST buyers can also opt for heated/cooled rear seats, upgraded brakes, and 21-inch alloy wheels.

For extra driver aids, Ford Co-Pilot 360 Assist+ adds adaptive cruise control with a stop/go function, lane centering, and evasive steering assistance.

The main engine in the 2021 Edge lineup is a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder unit developing 250 horsepower. It comes with a fuel-saving stop/restart feature. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard; all-wheel drive (AWD) is optional.

A turbocharged 2.7-liter V6 endows the Edge ST with 335 horsepower (achieved with premium gasoline), and this model has all-wheel drive included.

Both engines are paired with automatic transmissions. The 4-cylinder connects to an 8-speed, while the V6 gets a 7-speed. In keeping with its sportier status, the ST variant also has gearshift paddles mounted beneath the steering wheel.

The Ford Edge has a 3,500-pound tow rating.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (SE, SEL, ST-Line, Titanium)
250 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm
275 lb-ft of torque @ 3,000 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 21/29 mpg (FWD), 21/28 mpg (AWD)

2.7-liter twin-turbocharged V6 (ST)
335 horsepower @ 4,750 rpm
380 lb-ft of torque @ 2,750 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 19/25 mpg (AWD)