2019 Ford Edge ST- Automotive Review

The 2019 Ford Edge ST is the new and top of the line version of this popular mid-sized SUV. The Edge has been around for the past ten years. It is an excellent choice for a family of four looking for decent handling and style, comfort, cargo space and a comprehensive set of safety features. The introduction of the ST badge on the Edge is Ford’s hope to attract the buyer who is also focused on performance. Does the ST badge on the Edge really make a difference?

2019 Ford Edge ST | Photo Credit: R.G. Beltzner

Earlier this year I reviewed the 2019 Edge with the Titanium trim so in this review, I’m going to focus on the differences that come with the ST trim. I encourage you to read my review of the 2019 Edge Titanium.

Driving the 2019 Ford Edge ST

Ford uses ST badge on the “performance” versions such as the Focus ST for example. Generally this has meant some sporty exterior and interior styling as well as performance enhancements such as suspension tuning, more power and a variety of driving modes.

The single biggest difference with the 2019 ST is the move from the 2.0L 4-cylinder turbo to the 2.7L V6 twin turbo. The horsepower increases to 335 and 380 lb-ft of torque. There are some minor body style changes including 20” wheels that do give the ST a sportier look. However, Ford missed an opportunity when it comes to performance tuning. Unlike Ford’s other ST variants, the Edge ST's suspension is virtually no different in sport mode than it is in normal drive mode. Sport mode does provides a much more responsive engine and gearshifts but that’s about it. The exhaust is louder, but unfortunately it is not real.

I drove this ST for over 2,000 kilometers during a week-long test drive in dry as well as very wet weather. The last stretch included an 8-hour drive, non-stop except for a fill up and nourishment. Two things stood out for me that would make me consider the ST as my choice among the Edge line-up.

First – the seats are much more comfortable. I’m a big guy and long drives can really bother me if the driver’s seat is too small and doesn’t have the right adjustments. The seat on the ST is very comfortable.

Second – I preferred the V6 to the 2.0L 4-cylinder. Yes, fuel economy suffered a bit, but not that much. After 1862 km of (speedy) highway driving and some (slow) city adventures, I managed a combined 9.3L/100. When I drove the Titanium model earlier this year, I complained about stumbling and hesitation by the engine, especially moving from a stopped position. The ST was always smooth and responsive regardless of speed.

As I lean towards being a sportier driver, I was looking forward to using the sport mode during my test drive. What I found was that I constantly went back to normal drive mode – because it was really the most comfortable for me. Sport mode did not adjust the suspension at all – so I never got the sense that the Edge ST became a sportier drive. So other than to get the fake louder exhaust noise and earlier gear changes, there’s not much to it.

As with the other Edge trims, there are a few things that I found less than desirable. The pillars on either side of the windshield are simply too large. They block the driver’s visibility. Ford needs to do something about this. Rear visibility is also limited with the high placement of the rear window. Thankfully there is a 360-degree camera but you need to remember to use it leaving a parking space.

2019 Ford Edge Quick Facts

Trim	SE	SEL	Titanium	ST
Front Wheel Drive (FWD)		√
All wheel Drive (AWD)	√	√	√	√
Engine	2.0L I-4 turbocharged	2.0L I-4 turbocharged	2.0L I-4 turbocharged	2.7L V6 twin turbocharged
Horsepower	250	250	250	335
Torque	280	280	280	380
Base Price (MSRP)	$35,999	$37,999	$43,399	$49,099

Additional Edge ST features

2.7L V-6 engine with auto stop/start
Class II trailer tow package with trailer sway control
20” wheels
Leather trimmed seats with suede cloth inserts

Additional options for $5,800

Adaptive cruise control, stop & go, lane centering
Evasive steering assist
Adaptive LED headlights
Voice-activated touch screen navigation system
Cooled front seats and rear heated seats
Enhanced Active Park Assist
Front 180-degree camera with split view and washer
Cold weather package
And other convenience features

My test vehicle also included 21” wheels and tires ($950) and an upgraded ruby metallic paint ($450) both of which added to the look of the ST.

Things to consider

The Ford Edge is a great choice for a family vehicle given comfortable four passenger seating, plenty of storage space and excellent safety features. I especially liked the ST trim for the more comfortable seats and more powerful engine. For those reasons alone, I would choose the ST over other trims.

It does not however, deserve the ST badge, just yet. Perhaps the 2020/2021 versions will get some true ST performance enhancements to make it more competitive.