2008 Ford Edge

Now in its second model year of production, the Mazda 6-based Ford Edge is one of three replacements in Ford's line-up for its defunct minivan. The five-passenger crossover is built in Ford's Oakville Assembly Complex in Canada.

Power comes from Ford's venerable, award-winning and powerful 265hp 3.5L V6, mated to a six-speed automatic that was developed specifically for FWD vehicles in conjunction with General Motors. There are three trim levels, just like in 2007, with the only change for 2008 seeing the top-of-the-range SEL Plus renamed to Limited.

All wheel drive is optional across the range, with the FWD models getting EPA numbers of 16mpg city / 24mpg highway. AWD models fare slightly worse, at 15 / 22, respectively.

Some of the standard features on the Edge SE are all the power goodies, an advanced ABS system, A/C, 17-inch aluminum wheels, four 12V power points, AdvanceTrac® with RSC®, SecuriLock passive anti-theft system and Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Six airbags are integrated into all Edge trims, and have helped the CUV earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) Top Safety Pick designation for 2007.

The SEL throws in chrome exhaust tips, fog lamps, a six-CD, MP3-capable sound system with four speakers, automatic headlamps with wiper activation, a Message center with trip computer and compass, leather-wrapped steering wheel with speed and audio controls, aluminum instrument panel finish, unique cloth seats with six-way power driver manual driver lumbar and driver / passenger recline and a Reverse Sensing System.

The Limited adds an Audiophile sound system with nine speakers and six-disc CD / MP3; Dual electronic climate control; Fold-flat six-way power passenger seat; Unique brushed aluminum center stack; EasyFold™ second-row seats; Heated and memory seats and exterior mirrors; Leather-trimmed seats; and a Chrome beltline.
Stand-alone options include AWD, Panoramic Vista Roof, a choice of two 18-inch wheels and 20-inch chrome clad wheels. Newly optional for 2008 are the power liftgate, Ford's Sync hands-free communications and entertainment system and a voice-activated navigation system. There is also a Class II Trailer tow / prep package that includes beefier cooling and electrical systems along with the hitch itself. Finally, an interior appearance package gets you red-leather seat inserts and contrasting red stitching on the seats, steering wheel and shift knob.