Ford Edge nears finish line with a pleasing vehicle

Mark Glover’s AutoGlo car reviews can be seen here and in the Cruisin’ News, "Oregon, Nevada and California's classic auto news & marketplace."

Sacramento, California -- I've always liked the Ford Edge.

Ever since it was introduced for the 2007 model year, I believed that the midsize crossover sport-utility vehicle was not getting the respect it deserved.  I always felt that it received a lot of backhanded compliments when it was being compared with other models, particularly foreign-made SUVs.

I mention all this because it was reported earlier this year that Ford would discontinue production of the Edge after the 2023 model year. It all boiled down to assembly plant retooling and electric vehicle production plans, and the Edge found itself the odd man out.

Sad.

But an opportunity as well. There are still Edge SUVs out there to be had ... recent models with spacious interiors and peppy engines.

Like the recently tested 2021 Ford Edge ST-Line FWD.  My lavishly loaded tester was dressed up with plentiful extras -- a panoramic vista roof among them -- to come in at $42,225.

But here's the thing: As current auto prices have been climbing and the Edge ultimately is destined to disappear from the scene, a shrewd car shopper might be in a strong position to deal on older Edges that dealers want off their lots.

Just saying.

And what do you get in the Edge?

As mentioned, a roomy interior easily accommodates five passengers.  My cockpit seat had 10-way power and a heating feature.

Also standard on the tested Edge was a power liftgate, heated mirrors and LEDs front and rear.

On the fly, the tester's 2.0-liter, turbo-4 engine rated at 250 horsepower was an enthusiastic performer.  I easily darted in and out of crowded freeway traffic, and the Edge dug in impressively on hill climbs.

Fuel mileage was pretty fair at 21 miles per gallon in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.

A max five-star overall federal crash test safety rating topped a list of five-star scores.

So, if you can find an Edge and a dealer willing to bargain, you can enjoy the brand for years beyond the SUV's expiration date.