Ford Confirms New Edge SUV for 2016

Our source said that the company's SUVs "complement the range but are not a replacement for the MPVs in Ford's future." The Edge is a completely new design built on the global platforms of the new Mondeo and S-Max. It is set to take the lead as Ford's new flagship in Europe, slotting in above the Kuga and recently launched EcoSport.

Closely following the concept design seen at motor shows, the Edge features a large, multi-barred front grille, a strongly contoured front bumper and dynamically angled rear windscreen.That large grille is said to be fitted with active shutters, which automatically open and close to optimise engine temperatures.

Other new tech will include a Front Split View Camera, Adaptive Steering and Active Noise Cancellation.

The split-view camera system provides 180-degree perspectives at the front of the car to help the driver at tricky junctions and parking spaces. Adaptive Steering continually changes steering ratios according to vehicle speed for optimum responses in situations ranging from parking to cruising speeds. And Active Noise Cancellation uses three microphones in the cabin to monitor engine and road noise. This is then countered by opposing sound waves from the audio system's speakers.

Alongside familiar features like auto city braking and a blind spot alert, there is also the option of inflatable rear seatbelts. These have an airbag inside the webbing strap that extends across the passenger's chest.

As with the Mondeo, this new SUV has an advanced independent rear suspension setup. All-wheel drive that can incorporate Torque Vectoring Control and Curve Control is optionally available.

Power, Ford has said, will come from a choice of two 2.0-litre Duratorq diesel engines. The entry-level version produces 177bhp and 295lb ft, drives a six-speed manual gearbox and is expected to have CO2 figure of 149g/m. The other unit develops 207bhp and 332lb ft, is mated to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and is projected to emit 159g/km of CO2. Prices should start at about £30,000.