The Edge of technology

THE 2011 bold-looking and feature-filled Ford Edge has been unveiled by dealers Almoayyed Motors ... and the experts claim it is so much more than a car!

In addition to delivering 'customer-focussed' technology, the new Edge also showcases Ford's impressive drive to bring new powertrain options to the customer.

Venkatesh Goud, general manager of Almoayyed Motors, said: "The new Edge is a companion alongside being just a car. It boldly states a new era in the crossover utility segment.

"Its new powertrains provide customers more choice than ever, its exterior embraces Ford's DNA, with a signature grille, bodyside brightwork, new tail lamp treatment and new exhaust tips - all combining to enhance the presence of the 2011 Ford Edge. "Moreover, the industry-exclusive MyFord Touch technology brings a whole new approach to how drivers interact with their media and phone devices as well as vehicle technology, and complements Edge's new interior.

"We can see that customers in the region will fall in love all over again with the Ford Edge."

Both the Edge 3.5-liter V-6 and Edge Sport 3.7-liter V-6 use advanced engine valvetrain technology (Twin Independent Variable Camshaft Timing, or Ti-VCT) and clever control strategies to increase horsepower and torque to best-in-class levels.

The 3.5-liter V-6 produces 285 horsepower and 253 ft.-lb. of torque while the 3.7-liter V-6 delivers 305 horsepower and 280 ft.-lb. of torque - all on regular fuel.

Both engines are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

In all, the Edge will go from one engine and one transmission to two powertrains - all delivering what's expected to be class-leading or unsurpassed fuel economy and class-leading power.

The 2011 Ford Edge is also quieter inside than many premium vehicles. Both the front and rear subframe mounts have been upgraded, adding to the increased suspension and reducing noise, vibration and harshness.

The larger rear subframe bushing's rubber volume was increased by more than 500 per cent compared with the outgoing bushings, improving the isolation between the subframe and the body, which in turn helps decrease road noise.

The flowing exterior design is mirrored by a complementary interior, characterised by increased craftsmanship, improved materials and overall better execution.

The A-pillar flows into the hood, which adds subtle undulations to create a heightened sculptural quality. The wrapping lines emphasise both the front end and the new wheel lineup.

The industry-first MyFord Touch driver connect technology provides a smarter, safer, simpler way to connect drivers with in-car technologies and their digital lives.

It replaces traditional vehicle buttons, knobs and gauges with clear, crisp LCD screens and five-way controls like those found on mobile phones and MP3 players.

Standard on the 2011 Edge Limited and 2011 Edge Sport, the MyFord Touch system displays information using two 4.2-inch full-color LCD screens flanking an analog speedometer and an 8-inch touch-screen LCD at the top of the centre stack. A five-way switch on each side of the steering wheel crossbar controls the information displayed on the corresponding instrument panel screens.

The screens can be personalised to display information relevant to each individual driver using a simple button click, voice command or touch-screen tap.

The steering wheel has all the necessary functions available in a very compact area, right where the driver's hand falls as the wheel is grabbed. The five-way buttons feel familiar to anyone who has used a mobile phone or MP3 player.

The Edge is available from BD13,300. The Sitra showroom is offering an introductory offer of a complimentary three-year or 60,000km full maintenance warranty for a limited period. For details contact 17737373.