This past Thursday, right in the short lull between the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas and Detroit’s upcoming North American International Auto Show, came Ford’s reveal of its all-new 2019 Edge ST, the first SUV to be developed by the Ford Performance division and carry its badging.
Here’s betting the current Edge Sport may start feeling a bit jealous!
More aggressive in looks, sound
The ST comes with the most powerful V6 ever to populate the segment; the specially calibrated 2.7L EcoBoost generates 335 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque, and works in conjunction with a quick-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, all-wheel drive with selectable traction control, ST-tuned sport suspension and available performance brakes.
A new Sport mode allows drivers of the Ford Edge ST to enjoy more responsive acceleration, with the gearbox holding RPMs higher when cornering, more pronounced engine braking and a beefed-up exhaust sound. Paddle shifters on the steering wheel allow for manually shifting gears while settled comfortably in the ST seats with reinforced lateral support.
“Edge ST (is) a performance SUV with a track mentality. From a performance standpoint, and with its SUV silhouette and versatility, it sets a new standard Edge fans will love to drive.”
- Hau Thai-Tang, executive vice president of Product Development and Purchasing
Unique design touches distinguish both extremities and sides of the new ST; notable styling elements include a large mesh grille, deep side skirts, dual exhaust pipes and available unique 21-inch wheels. Inside, new design cues enhance the steering wheel, seatbacks and scuff plates to further set the ST apart as an SUV unlike the others.
Safety not an afterthought
As in all the Edge models, standard safety and drive-assist equipment is generously provided and includes Forward Collision Warning, Pre-Collision Assist with Pedestrian Detection, blind spot monitor, Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane-Keeping Alert, Lane-Keeping Assist, Auto High Beams and the AdvanceTrac system with Roll Stability Control, not to mention 911 assistance.
For 2019, Ford is introducing technologies that are wholly new for the brand and unprecedented in the category, such as Post-Collision Braking (to prevent further impacts), Evasive Steering Assist that helps avoid obstacles and adaptive cruise control with stop-start and lane centering functions.
The new 2019 Ford Edge models, including the muscular new Ford Edge ST, are expected at dealerships by this summer. We will be keeping you up to date regarding pricing and other details as they become available.