2019 Ford Edge Hones Safety Tech, Performance Chops

By Nick Kurczewski

September 19, 2018

The 2019 Ford Edge comes packed with more standard safety equipment and a new trim level in the form of the performance-minded ST, but it'll cost you an edge up in prices, too. The 2019 Edge starts at $30,990 for the base SE trim, $680 more than 2018, while the Edge ST can be had for $43,350 (all prices include the $995 destination fee).

SEL trims start at $33,965, while Titanium models are $39,545 to start; adding all-wheel drive increases prices $1,995 across the board. All four available trim levels come with Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite of safety items standard. The suite includes forward collision warning with dynamic brake support, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, blind spot warning with rear cross-traffic alert, automatic high-beams and a backup camera.

Though we've already detailed the Edge's fully disconnectable AWD system that uses artificial intelligence algorithms for better handling, the highlight for the 2019 lineup is likely the new ST model. The ST — tuned courtesy the Ford Performance division, a first for the brand's SUVs — features a serious performance streak thanks to a turbocharged 2.7-liter V-6 that improves on the base 250-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder and delivers an eye-opening 335 hp and 380 pounds-feet of torque. (Power for both comes via an eight-speed automatic transmission.)

That's a lot of rapid Ford-badged SUV for the money, and the automaker isn't shy about making comparisons to pricier rivals from luxury brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and Maserati. Do we think anyone is going to cross-shop a Porsche Macan or Maserati Levante with a Ford Edge ST? Almost certainly not (though you're welcome to do that here), but the ST's spec sheet still looks impressive. And for an additional $2,695, the ST Performance Brake Package adds 21-inch wheels (20s are standard), 13.6-inch ventilated front and rear disc brakes, performance brakepads, red calipers and summer-only tires. Another option package for an additional $5,585 includes a voice-activated touchscreen, park assist, heated and cooled rear seats and a 180-degree front camera with split view.

If a low entry price and solid fuel mileage numbers are important factors in your SUV purchase, the 2019 Edge compares favorably with rivals like the Toyota Highlander and Jeep Grand Cherokee. The 2019 Highlander starts at $32,375 and comes with a 185-hp, 2.7-liter four-cylinder that returns an EPA-estimated 20/24/22 mpg city/highway. The 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee carries a base price of $33,190 in Laredo trim with FWD; powered by a 295-hp, 3.6-liter V-6, it delivers an estimated 19/26/21 mpg city/highway/combined. Compare the Grand Cherokee and Highlander with the Edge here.

The 2019 Ford Edge, including the ST model, are on sale now, with deliveries expected in the next few weeks.

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