2022 Ford Edge ST Review: Is It Worth It?
Hey car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into a ride that's been turning heads and sparking conversations: the 2022 Ford Edge ST. You've probably seen it on the road, looking all sporty and aggressive, and wondered, "Is this thing actually a good car?" Well, buckle up, because we're about to give you the lowdown, the real deal, on whether the 2022 Ford Edge ST lives up to the hype. We'll cover everything from its performance chops to its everyday usability, so you can decide if this beefed-up Edge is the right fit for your garage. Let's get this review started!
Performance Powerhouse: What Makes the Edge ST Roar?
Alright guys, let's talk about the heart and soul of the 2022 Ford Edge ST: its performance. This isn't your grandma's minivan; the ST badge means business. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that puts out a hefty 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. That's some serious grunt, folks! When you put your foot down, this SUV doesn't just accelerate; it launches. The power delivery is smooth yet exhilarating, thanks to the eight-speed automatic transmission that's been tuned specifically for the ST model. It shifts with a satisfying quickness, keeping you in the power band whether you're merging onto the highway or tackling a winding road. But it's not just about raw power; Ford engineers worked some magic on the chassis too. The sport-tuned suspension provides a much firmer ride than your standard Edge, which translates to sharper handling and reduced body roll when you're cornering. It feels planted and confident, making you want to seek out those twisty bits of asphalt. The standard all-wheel-drive system is also a huge plus, not only for inclement weather but also for putting that power down effectively. It intelligently distributes power between the front and rear wheels, ensuring maximum traction and stability. Now, is this a sports car? No, it's still a mid-size SUV, so there's a certain heft to it. However, compared to other SUVs in its class, the Edge ST offers a driving experience that's significantly more engaging and fun. For those who crave a bit more excitement in their daily driver without sacrificing practicality, the performance of the 2022 Ford Edge ST is a major selling point. It's a vehicle that can genuinely put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel, offering a thrilling blend of SUV versatility and sporty dynamics that's hard to beat.
Interior Comfort and Tech: Is It a Nice Place to Be?
Moving on from the adrenaline rush, let's talk about the interior of the 2022 Ford Edge ST. Because let's be real, guys, you're not just buying a car for its speed; you want it to be a comfortable and tech-savvy place to spend your time. Ford stepped up their game here, especially with the ST treatment. The first thing you'll notice are the sport bucket seats. These aren't just for looks; they're designed to hold you in place during spirited driving, offering excellent support. They're usually upholstered in a mix of cloth and grippy ActiveX material, and you can often opt for leather too. Plus, they come standard with heating and even cooling functions, which is a fantastic perk for those long road trips or scorching summer days. The cabin itself feels spacious, offering ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. It's a comfortable environment for families or for hauling friends around. Now, let's talk tech. The 12-inch infotainment touchscreen is the centerpiece of the dashboard, and it's huge and incredibly responsive. It runs Ford's latest SYNC 4A system, which is a massive improvement over previous versions. It's intuitive, easy to navigate, and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Yes, you read that right – wireless! No more fumbling with cords every time you hop in. The system also includes built-in navigation and voice recognition, making it easier than ever to control your music, calls, and navigation without taking your hands off the wheel. Beyond the infotainment, you'll find plenty of other thoughtful touches. The materials used throughout the cabin are generally of good quality, feeling more premium than you might expect from a mainstream SUV. There are soft-touch surfaces on the dash and doors, and the overall fit and finish are solid. You also get a wireless charging pad, multiple USB ports, and a good sound system (with an optional B&O premium audio system if you really want to jam out). Safety tech is also abundant, with features like blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control available or standard. So, yeah, the interior of the 2022 Ford Edge ST is a pretty darn nice place to be. It blends sporty aesthetics with comfort and cutting-edge technology, making it a versatile and enjoyable space for everyday driving and longer journeys alike.
Practicality and Versatility: Can It Haul Your Life?
Okay, so we've established that the 2022 Ford Edge ST is fun to drive and has a swanky interior, but can it actually handle the day-to-day grind, guys? That's where practicality and versatility come into play, and for a sporty-looking SUV, the Edge ST does a surprisingly good job. Let's break it down. First off, cargo space. You get a respectable 39.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. That's enough room for your weekly grocery haul, a couple of suitcases for a weekend getaway, or all the gear for a soccer practice. Need more room? Fold down those rear seats – and they fold flat, which is super convenient – and you unlock a cavernous 73.4 cubic feet of space. That's plenty for larger items like furniture, bikes, or even a small mattress. So, whether you're moving dorm stuff, heading to Home Depot, or just packing for a family vacation, the Edge ST has you covered. Passenger space is also generous. As we touched on with the interior, there's plenty of room for five adults to ride comfortably. The rear seats offer good legroom and headroom, so even taller passengers won't feel cramped on longer journeys. Getting in and out is also easy, thanks to the SUV form factor and well-designed door openings. For families, this means happy kids (or adults!) in the back. Beyond just space, think about the everyday usability. The standard all-wheel drive is a massive practical advantage, giving you confidence in snow, rain, or just on slippery roads. You don't have to worry as much about traction. Towing capacity? While it's not a dedicated tow vehicle, the Edge ST can handle a decent load, typically rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds when properly equipped. This is enough for a small boat, a couple of ATVs, or a utility trailer. So, it's not just for show; it has some real utility. The ride, while sportier than a standard Edge, is still comfortable enough for daily commuting. It's not bone-jarringly stiff, striking a decent balance between sporty feel and everyday comfort. Plus, the elevated driving position common to SUVs gives you a better view of the road, which many drivers appreciate for its sense of command and safety. So, in terms of hauling people and stuff, the 2022 Ford Edge ST proves itself to be a very capable and versatile vehicle. It manages to blend its sporty persona with the practical needs of everyday life, making it a well-rounded choice for many buyers.
Fuel Economy: The Not-So-Sporty Side
Now, let's get real, guys. When you're talking about a 335-horsepower V6 engine and a sport-tuned suspension, there's usually a trade-off, and with the 2022 Ford Edge ST, that trade-off often comes in the form of fuel economy. It's not the best part of this performance-oriented SUV, but it's important to know what you're getting into. The EPA estimates for the 2022 Edge ST are typically around 19 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway, for a combined rating of about 21 MPG. Now, compared to a smaller, more fuel-efficient crossover or a hybrid, these numbers are definitely on the lower side. If you're someone who drives long distances daily or is hyper-focused on saving every penny at the pump, these figures might give you pause. However, it's crucial to put this into perspective. You're getting a significant amount of power and a fun driving experience with that V6 engine. Vehicles that offer similar performance levels often have even worse fuel economy. For example, some of its performance-oriented competitors might struggle to break 20 MPG combined. Ford's EcoBoost engines are designed to offer a good balance of power and efficiency, and while the ST variant is tuned for maximum performance, it's still using relatively modern technology. Moreover, the driving conditions and your driving style will significantly impact the actual mileage you achieve. If you tend to drive aggressively, enjoying that ST acceleration, you'll likely see numbers closer to the lower end of the estimates. If you drive more smoothly and do a lot of highway cruising, you might eke out a few more miles per gallon. Some drivers have reported real-world figures in the low 20s, especially on the highway. It's also worth noting that the fuel tank capacity is decent, meaning you won't be stopping every few hours on a long road trip, but you will be visiting the gas station more frequently than in a standard Edge or a more economical SUV. So, while the fuel economy of the 2022 Ford Edge ST isn't its strong suit, it's a predictable compromise for the performance it delivers. If maximizing MPG is your absolute top priority, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you're willing to accept this trade-off for a more engaging driving experience, it's a factor you can certainly live with.
The Verdict: So, Is the 2022 Ford Edge ST a Good Car?
Alright guys, we've covered a lot of ground on the 2022 Ford Edge ST. We've talked about its exhilarating performance, its comfortable and tech-filled interior, its surprising practicality, and yes, even its not-so-great fuel economy. So, the big question remains: is the 2022 Ford Edge ST a good car? Drumroll please... Yes, absolutely! But with a big asterisk. It's a fantastic car if you understand what it is and what it's trying to be. If you're looking for a no-compromise, ultra-fuel-efficient family hauler, this might not be your perfect match. However, if you want an SUV that doesn't feel like a beige appliance behind the wheel, something that offers genuine driving thrills, a spacious and well-equipped interior, and enough practicality for your daily life, then the 2022 Ford Edge ST is a seriously compelling option. It's a wolf in sheep's clothing, offering sporty performance in a practical mid-size SUV package. The powerful V6 engine, the sharp handling thanks to the sport-tuned suspension and AWD, and the upgraded interior with that massive touchscreen make it stand out. It's a vehicle that can handle the commute, the grocery run, and then still put a grin on your face when you decide to have a little fun on the open road. The downsides, like the fuel economy, are noticeable but are often seen as a fair trade-off for the performance and driving enjoyment. Ultimately, the 2022 Ford Edge ST strikes a brilliant balance for buyers who don't want to sacrifice excitement for utility. It's proof that an SUV can be both practical and fun to drive. So, if you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that offers a bit more spice, the 2022 Ford Edge ST is definitely worth a serious look. Give it a test drive, and you might just find yourself falling in love with this sporty hauler!