It’s pretty easy to overlook the  Ford Edge. There are plenty of faster and bigger options to consider in the midsize SUV class. Furthermore, the Edge is outshined by its own siblings, including the Escape and the Explorer. But as you shop around, you’ll see that the Edge is the black sheep of the family, in a good way.

What makes the Edge stand out in the Ford lineup?

Consumer Reports updated its list of most reliable car brands. And out of the 26 different brands that CR ranked, Ford as a whole was unimpressive. Ford’s problematic SUVs caused numerous owners headaches this year, making the brand one of the least reliable car brands of the year. But in a way, the Edge is Ford’s saving grace.

The 2021 Edge is the only Ford model that has an above-average reliability rating. CR’s rating for the Edge indicates that the SUV doesn’t have “major bummers” such as a chancy transmission or severe engine problems. Additionally, CR’s member data shows that the Edge has proved to be a reliable SUV. 

After the Edge, CR ranked the Fusion as Ford’s second most reliable car. Alas, the Fusion was killed off earlier this year. The Mustang rounds out the top three most dependable Ford cars.

What it’s like to drive the 2021 Ford Edge 

There’s a lot to like about how the Edge performs. CR commends the Edge for its stability, quietness, and sportiness. These qualities make the Edge feel more like a luxury car.

“Ford has managed to instill a distinct taut and agile feel in this substantial SUV. The Edge exhibits a commendable athleticism in corners. it feels tied down and responsive, with confidence-inspiring steering and handling. Body lean is well contained, and the steering responds swiftly in a way that’s reminiscent of a well-honed European vehicle.”

Consumer Reports (2020)

As with the outgoing model, the 2021 Edge comes with a 250-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that can make your daily commutes more enjoyable. This turbo-four is actually on par with some of its V6-powered rivals, as CR notes. You’ll want to stick with the Edge’s base engine if you value fuel economy. There’s the twin-turbocharged 335-hp, 2.7-liter V6 on the ST trim for those who crave more power.

Cabin comforts 

The Edge is a spacious five-seater. Like most of its competition, it comes with cloth upholstery. You have options to spice things up, though, such as synthetic leather or genuine leather seats. Other upscale amenities to consider are cooled and heated front seats.

The biggest news for the 2021 Edge is that Ford made a giant 12-inch touch screen as a standard feature. The updated screen is complete with the latest version of Ford’s award-winning infotainment system. There are plenty of other desirable features, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and a wifi hotspot. CR likes that many active safety features are also standard, including forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking.