2008 Chicago Auto Show: 2009 Ford Edge Sport

• Competes with: Nissan Murano, Jeep Grand Cherokee
• Looks like: A surprisingly understated, custom SUV
  
• Drivetrain: 265 hp V-6 with six-speed automatic transmission
• Hits dealerships: Fall 2008

Ford is adding a fourth trim level to its popular Edge crossover. The Edge Sport delivers something the plain-old SE, SEL and Limited models don’t, accessories. The Edge Sport is exactly the same when it comes to the engine and other mechanical bits as other Edges, but it adds custom body-cladding, a revised lower grille and foglights, and revised tailpipes and taillights. Only four colors will be available, the Sport Blue seen here, Ebony, Brilliant Silver and Redfire.

The interior also gets some interesting changes, with each Sport getting dark gray leather seats with suede-like inserts and stitching. The center console is covered in a new metallic material.

Of course, no custom look would be complete without some big wheels. The Edge Sport comes with 20-inch painted wheels standard. Yep, you can go bigger: 22s are the upgrade, and Ford says it’s the first time they’ve been offered on a crossover. We don’t doubt it. 

Ford says the Edge Sport is to address the customizer crowd. We’re not sure that group of automotive DIY’ers wants or needs a leg-up from the manufacturer, but the Sport is surprisingly understated for something aimed at the bling crowd. More images below.

Comments

I wish Ford would have fixed the axle ratios, rather than put no profile sidewall tires.
Use 3.16 for front wheel drive, 3.39 for the Haldex models.
The LIncoln MKX has the 3.39 axle ratio, so move the Lincoln MKX to the 3.7 liter engine (just like the Mazda Cx-9.

Looks aggreesive, but still not modified enough.

If Ford did several things they would have a winner on their hands:
1. Clean up the front end - the headlights and grill.
2. Increase the horsepower, I've had the Edge as rentals and it's a fine auto, but underpowered.
3. Pack it with value (aka Hyundai), make standard: leather, heated seats, iPod connection, SAT radio.
4. Consider changing the name and advertising as they both leave a lot to be desired.

If Honda had this vehicle it would be a huge hit, and whomever at Cars.com thinks the Edge competes with the JGC needs to do their homework.

I'm going to agree and disagree with Karl.

1. I think the massive front end gives it presence.

2. I haven't driven an edge, but I had an MKX for a lenghty test drive and the power is there, it just has a lot to carry around. It only seats five- where is all that extra weight?

3.I think it is packed with value already- but every car should have some type of auxilary input std. these days. However, Sync is std on most of the trim levels.

4. Karl is right about the advertisment. Ford has never been good at this. Whatever company handles their PR or lack thereof should be let go- However, I have been seeing some pretty nice lincoln commercials lately, so maybe there is a wind of change in the air.
DON"T CHANGE ANYMORE NAMES!!!!!

Broq

Not bad looking, but I'd say drop it one or two inches and add a super or turbo charger. At least the option of one. Sure it would only be a small percentage of sales but it might give enough WOW factor to the rest of the line.

(A Halo CUV? I think I've seen everything)