2008 Ford Edge

There’s a lot to like about sport utility vehicles: the secure-feeling high seating position, space to tote big loads, ability to climb steep, snow-covered driveways, and their adventuresome image. But SUVs have downsides, too, not the least of which is mediocre fuel economy. The 2008 Ford Edge crossover accentuates the positives of SUVs and minimizes their negatives.

Capable Crossover

The ’08 Edge, especially when equipped with the optional all-wheel-drive, has the ability to go everywhere the majority of SUV owners will take their vehicles. SUV owners like to look as if they’re ready to climb the Rockies, but few go further from a paved road than a gravel soccer-field parking lot. The Edge can accommodate large loads: With one option it can accommodate things most SUVs can’t. Its high seating position allows drivers to see problems before they become urgent. Yet the Edge offers maneuverability, fuel economy and ride comfort rivaling a sedan. Most important for many who spent their formative years in station wagons or minivans, it’s not either.


One reason the five-passenger Edge is an ideal blend of sedan and SUV is that it’s built on the same platform as the Ford Fusion, Lincoln MKZ and Mazda 6 sedans. It’s also a fraternal twin to the Lincoln MKX and Mazda CX-9 crossovers. The auto industry defines “crossover” as a vehicle that looks like, and performs most functions of, an SUV, but provides the benefits of a sedan.


The Edge, introduced as an ’07, boasts several new options for ’08. Heading the list of newly available features are 20-inch Chrome clad aluminum wheels, a power-operated liftgate, and the Ford exclusive SYNC communication and entertainment system. Other options include an interior appearance package with red leather seat inserts. The Edge comes in three trim levels: the base SE, SEL, and top-of-the line Limited.

Features and Performance

Standard features include front-seat side airbags and side-curtain airbags. Also standard is Ford’s AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control electronic stability enhancement system, anti-lock brakes, and a tire-pressure monitoring system. These help the Canadian-built Edge to earn a “Top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and two five-star side crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.