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The new generation Ford Edge is undergoing a radical redesign inside and out. When it debuted in the US in 2007, it was the first mid-size crossover from Ford, positioned between the Escape and Explorer. Mechanically based on the Fusion sedan, the Edge has relatively unremarkable design cues but succeeds as a family hauler.
However, 2023 will be the final model year for the Edge in North America as Ford moves toward an SUV-heavy lineup. While Americans may miss the Edge, it will remain in China, looking different than before.
An eastern shift in design philosophy
The China version of the Edge appears to be quite different from its North American and European predecessors. In line with Ford’s “China 2.0 plan”, the Edge will adopt the company’s “Progressive Energy in Strength” design philosophy. The first example of the project is the Ford Evos featured at the Shanghai Auto Show last year, Ford Authority reports.
In creating an aesthetic competitive in the tech-savvy Chinese market, Ford says its expression principles are “‘commanding,’ ‘agile’ and ‘responsive.'” Like the updates given to China’s rebrand of the Mondeo— Europe’s Ford Fusion—the Edge will feature a sportier exterior style. Flush-fitting door handles, full-width lighting signature, and accelerated hood lines help give the car a streamlined look.
Tech-forward cabin for the tech-savvy market

The new Ford Edge is similar to the Mondeo in styling but will feature a cabin that mirrors the Evos in looks and amenities. Undoubtedly part of the redesign party is the door-to-door infotainment screen. At a whopping 3.6 feet wide, the screen leaves drivers at the helm of a dashboard that would have made Lieutenant Sulu jealous.
The full-width horizontal screen encompasses a 12.3-inch digital cluster and a 27-inch 4K touchscreen powered by SYNC+ 2.0. The crossover is the first Ford to feature a “Virtual Personal Assistant,” which provides “a personalized human-machine interface experience,” explained Ford Authority. Along with facial recognition, gesture control, and tons of built-in entertainment applications, the Edge will boast futuristic safety technology.
Safety features with 5G capability to ‘talk’ to other vehicles
Ford’s BlueCruise Level 2—formerly Active Drive Assist—uses a blue light in the digital instrument cluster to indicate a hands-free zone. The technology builds on the company’s Intelligent Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go, Lane Centering, and Speed Sign Recognition. Ford says this allows for actual hands-free driving on prequalified sections of divided highways while monitored by driver-facing cameras.
The Edge will also boast Ford’s emerging C-V2X (cellular-based vehicle-to-everything) technology to increase driver safety. Ford Authority says the technology enables wireless transmission between vehicles and 5G-capable objects to “talk” and “listen” to each other. Ford envisions its C-V2X technology interacting with stop lights, driver feedback displays, and other infrastructure to warn drivers of what they might encounter. Additionally, the system can enable an in-car system that can provide drivers with more navigation context.
Will the Ford Edge only be sold in China?
Leaked images of the new Ford Edge from the website of China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology were reported in August. However, their spies may also have spotted one being examined in Europe afterwards. Therefore, the new and improved Edge may also come to European markets.
For the North American market, Ford currently offers eight SUVs and crossovers. However, the number will drop to seven as Ford discontinues the Edge next year. There are currently no plans to sell the new Edge in the saturated western market. Regardless, Ford customers will likely see updated technology in many of the company’s offerings.
CONNECTION: Despite Its Flaws, The Ford Edge Is Still One of the Best SUVs to Buy
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