First Impressions

The mid-size Ford Edge crossover arrived for 2007, and quickly made a name for itself as a more fuel-efficient alternative to traditional truck-based utilities.

Now, for 2011, the Edge gains significant upgrades to powertrain, suspension, and features, to keep pace with rapidly evolving competition.

The new Edge’s front end gets the most visual attention with a giant three-bar grille and overall less utilitarian look.

The Edge’s simple side view is unchanged, and tweaks to the rear are modest at best.

Under the Sport’s hood is the first transverse application of the Mustang’s 3.7-liter, 305-horsepower V6. On our Tennessee preview drive, we found handling to be impressively precise, and the V6 had better-than-decent punch.

Non-Sport models retain the base 3.5-liter V6, but now with 285 horsepower, 20 more than last year. Plus, highway fuel economy now tops all V6 rivals.

An even thriftier 2.0-liter direct-injected, turbocharged EcoBoost I-4 will be added after it debuts on an all-new 2011 Explorer.

Stopping power was not a strong suit of the original Edge. For 2011, from booster to calipers, hardware is all-new for greatly improved performance.

There are big changes on the interior as well. Styling is fresh, and the entire dash is shrouded in soft-touch plastics.

Sport and Limited trims are available with the new MyFord Touch infotainment system.

Available now, the 2011 Ford Edge starts for under $28,000.