Mother Proof's view

Do you think The Edge would drive the Edge? Is there enough room for him, Bono, Larry, and that other guy? I am happy to report that, yes, they will all fit (with that other guy’s bass, too). Would The (U2) Edge pick the (Ford) Edge as a car he’d want to drive, and feel cool driving? I think so. The 2007 Ford Edge isn’t too flashy; it’s hip and sharp without screaming, “Look at me! I need attention! I am high-maintenance! Where’s the nearest manicurist?”

What I like about this new Ford is pretty straightforward: Beginning with a very accessible, park-able size, the Edge is easy to get into, easy to put into parking spaces and easy to be comfortable in while driving. The steering wheel has both radio and thermostat controls (not seen often). I love this because there are usually radio controls and then something that’s completely useless to most of the population, like Bluetooth. I hate looking down at the steering wheel and seeing buttons for a nifty gadget I don’t have, although I should probably enter the 21st century soon.

In case I find myself driving down a street with no name, I must tell you that the touch-screen navigation system is quite simple to use. Before the Edge, I felt like I still hadn’t found what I was looking for when it came to user-friendly navigtation systems. I’m happy to report that the Ford Edge is a winner in this area. A standing ovation!

Other items worthy of an encore include removable and washable cupholder coasters in the front; a center console boasting a removable upper tray for small items and a large lower bin underneath with adjustable slots; an MP3 audio hookup inside the center console for indulging in any playlist or podcast binge; and standard all-wheel drive.

But suppose I’m transporting my slightly less-professional rock band made up of small children singing a saga-like round of “Where is Pumpkin” (“Where is Thumpkin”) in between pleas for a game of “hide in the sink” (hide and seek). How does the Edge cope? Very nicely indeed. The panoramic sunroof with a sliding sunshade kept the interior bright so passengers in the back didn’t feel cooped up. The easy-to-fold rear seats are great, and they’re made so with a remote button in the cargo area. The seat belts are easy to use as well, with enough width in the seats themselves for booster seats to fit properly and not squish Tiny U2’s hands when they buckle in. The receptors of the buckles are great, too; they’re the kind that are stiff, not flimsy-floppy and hard for tykes to buckle on their own. Oh, and in case my crew is in the back of the Edge loading up drum kits and amps (or strollers and diaper bags), the Ford comes with rear backup sensors so I know when my path is clear.

I would be guilty of being an unobjective, star-struck uber-fan if I didn’t mention the following issues with the Ford Edge: The pockets on the back of the front seats are too tight and don’t promote any practical use except by really thin books (maybe a concert program, or, more likely, a Disney Princess sticker book). Likewise, the compartments in the back doors aren’t large enough to use effectively. As great as the seat belts are to use, the Latch connectors are not. Lastly, the cargo door is hard to open. That door moves in mysterious ways, for sure. It has too much resistance and causes my elbow to pop oddly while opening. That can’t be good.

In any case, I am happy in the Edge (OK, this is getting odd). Whether out on regular ol’ errands or road-tripping to Joshua Tree with my groupies (or children), I loved my time in the Ford Edge. We are one.

*For more information on the 2007 Ford Edge and its safety features, visit www.cars.com.

LET’S TALK NUMBERS

LATCH Connectors: 2

Seating Capacity (includes driver): 5

IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT COUNT

Storage Compartments (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Fair – Ample

Cargo/Trunk Space (Puny, Fair, Ample, Galore): Ample

SENSE AND STYLE

Family Friendly (Not Really, Fair, Great, Excellent): Great

Fun-Factor (None, Some, Good Times, Groove On): Good Times