GLEN WOODCOCK
Published: 28 12 2010
Driving the 2011 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX in back-to-back road tests has been an interesting experience.
Since they blew away most of the competition, I thought it might be interesting to compare them to one another, especially since the upscale Edge Limited comes fitted with most of the kit that’s standard on MKX. So for the extra money it takes to buy the Lincoln, what’s it got that Edge Limited doesn’t? Not a lot, as it turns out.
Both are built on the CD3 platform, also used by Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ sedans, with a 2,824 mm wheelbase and a fully independent suspension that delivers a smooth, car-like ride. Interior space is virtually identical, as is cargo space behind the rear seats (69 litres) and towing capacity (1,588 kg). Both have all-wheel-drive, a six-speed automatic transmission, Ford’s Easy Fuel capless filling system, rear view camera, power liftgate, push-button start, keyless entry and a panoramic sunroof.
The voice-activated SYNC communication/entertainment system is the same, as is the LCD screen in the centre stack with its soft-touch controls. Biggest difference, other than styling – and many prefer Edge’s cleaner frontal treatment – is under the hood. MKX is powered by a 3.7-litre V6 making 305 hp while our Edge Limited has a 3.5-litre V6 rated at 285 hp.
Edge’s driving position and visibility are excellent. So are the cabin ergonomics –with one exception. It takes too light a touch to activate the four-way hazard lights, which I kept doing by brushing the switch with my wrist while using the touch screen controls. I don’t think I have accidentally activated the flashers more than twice before in all the vehicles I’ve driven and I’ve done it four times in less than a week with the Edge. Perhaps the switch could be moved or it could require a little more effort to turn them on?
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