2017 Ford Edge: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2017 Ford Edge presented a compelling option in the midsize SUV segment, offering a blend of style, technology, and a comfortable driving experience. It was designed to appeal to a wide range of buyers seeking a practical yet refined vehicle for daily commutes and family adventures.
Highlights
The 2017 Ford Edge was available with two distinct engine options, catering to different priorities for power and fuel efficiency.
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Engine Options:
- 2.0L EcoBoost Inline-4: This turbocharged engine was the standard offering, providing a good balance of performance and fuel economy. It produced 245 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available.
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6: For those seeking more spirited performance, the optional 2.7L twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 delivered an impressive 315 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. This more potent engine also came with the 6-speed SelectShift automatic and standard all-wheel drive, offering a significant boost in acceleration and towing capability.
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Safety Features: The 2017 Edge was equipped with a suite of advanced safety features designed to enhance driver awareness and protect occupants.
- Standard Safety Features: Anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control, stability control, a rearview camera, and a comprehensive airbag system were standard across all trims.
- Available Driver-Assist Technologies: Many advanced safety features were available, often bundled in packages or standard on higher trims. These included:
- Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert: BLIS warns you if a vehicle is in your blind spot, while Cross-Traffic Alert alerts you to approaching traffic when backing out of a parking space.
- Lane-Keeping System: This system can help keep the vehicle centered in its lane by applying gentle steering inputs if it detects unintentional drifting.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: This advanced cruise control automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a set distance from the vehicle in front, making highway driving more relaxed.
- Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking: This system can detect potential frontal collisions and alert the driver. If the driver doesn't react, it can automatically apply the brakes to mitigate or avoid a crash.
- Forward Sensing System: This system uses sensors to detect obstacles in front of the vehicle, aiding in low-speed maneuvers.
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Trim Summary: The 2017 Ford Edge was offered in four distinct trim levels, each building upon the features of the one below it.
- SE: The entry-level SE trim provided a solid foundation with essential features, including 18-inch alloy wheels, a 4.2-inch central display, Ford's SYNC infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera.
- SEL: Stepping up to the SEL added more comfort and convenience, typically including dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen with Ford's SYNC 3 infotainment system (offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility), heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat.
- Titanium: The Titanium trim elevated the Edge with a more premium feel and enhanced technology. This usually included leather-trimmed seats, heated and cooled front seats, a heated steering wheel, a hands-free power liftgate, a premium Sony audio system, and the availability of advanced driver-assist features.
- Sport: The Sport trim focused on a sportier aesthetic and performance enhancements. It typically featured unique exterior styling cues, larger 20-inch wheels, sport-tuned suspension, and often came standard with the more powerful 2.7L EcoBoost V6 engine.
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Other Notable Aspects:
- SYNC 3 Infotainment: The availability of the SYNC 3 system, with its responsive touchscreen, intuitive interface, and smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), was a significant draw, offering a modern and user-friendly experience.
- Comfortable Ride: The Edge was generally praised for its comfortable and composed ride quality, making it a pleasant vehicle for long journeys and daily driving.
- Spacious Interior: The cabin offered ample space for passengers in both rows, and the cargo area was also generous, providing good utility for hauling groceries or luggage.
What to Expect
Ownership of a 2017 Ford Edge typically involves a reliable and comfortable experience, with routine maintenance being the primary concern.
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Typical Ownership Experience: Buyers can expect a smooth and refined driving experience, whether navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The interior is well-designed and offers a good level of comfort and amenities, especially in the higher trim levels. The infotainment system, particularly SYNC 3, is a strong point, offering easy connectivity and access to apps. The available all-wheel drive system provides added confidence in various weather conditions.
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Maintenance: Like most modern vehicles, the 2017 Edge will require regular scheduled maintenance, including oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid checks. Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule in the owner's manual is crucial for ensuring longevity and optimal performance. Common maintenance items will include:
- Oil and filter changes (typically every 7,500-10,000 miles for EcoBoost engines, depending on driving conditions and oil type).
- Tire rotations and inspections.
- Brake inspections and potential replacements.
- Cabin air filter replacement.
- Engine air filter replacement.
- Transmission fluid checks and flushes (as per schedule).
- Coolant checks and flushes.
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Insurance: Insurance costs for a 2017 Ford Edge will vary significantly based on individual factors such as the driver's age, driving record, location, coverage levels chosen, and the specific trim and optional features of the vehicle. Generally, midsize SUVs with advanced safety features and more powerful engines can command slightly higher premiums than their base models. It's always recommended to get personalized quotes from multiple insurance providers to find the best coverage at a competitive rate.
Potential Considerations
While the 2017 Ford Edge offers many positives, there are a few potential drawbacks that buyers should be aware of.
- Base Engine Performance: While the 2.0L EcoBoost provides adequate power for most situations, some drivers might find it slightly underpowered when carrying a full load or tackling steep inclines, especially compared to the available V6.
- Infotainment Lag (Early SYNC 3): While SYNC 3 was a significant improvement, some early iterations of the system could occasionally exhibit minor lag or unresponsiveness, particularly with extensive app usage.
- Visibility: Some drivers have noted that the rear visibility can be somewhat compromised due to the vehicle's styling and the placement of the C-pillars, making the rearview camera and blind-spot monitoring systems particularly valuable.
- Fuel Economy with V6 Engine: The more powerful 2.7L EcoBoost V6, while offering exhilarating performance, will naturally consume more fuel than the 2.0L EcoBoost, which is a consideration for those prioritizing maximum fuel efficiency.
- Transmission Behavior: While generally smooth, some owners have reported occasional hesitant shifts or a slight delay in downshifts from the 6-speed automatic transmission, especially under rapid acceleration.
Overall Summary
The 2017 Ford Edge was a well-rounded and appealing midsize SUV that successfully blended style, practicality, and modern technology. With its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and the availability of advanced safety and infotainment features, it offered a compelling package for families and individuals alike. While the base engine might not satisfy every performance enthusiast, the optional V6 provided ample power. Potential buyers should consider the noted visibility aspects and potential minor infotainment quirks, but overall, the 2017 Ford Edge remained a strong contender in its class, offering a refined and enjoyable ownership experience.
