Ford Motors has unveiled the 2015 Edge, a mid-sized crossover SUV, to boost its sales in the global market.
Ford introduced the first-generation Edge at Detroit's North American International Auto Show in Jan. 2006. The car started to ship to the North America in late 2006, in Brazil from 2008 and in China from 2011. The Edge contributed to the company's SUV sales, which were up in Europe by 20 percent in 2013. Ford's market share in China was less than 1 percent in 2012, but it reached to 4.5 percent in 2013. The success of the first generation Edge may have tempted Ford to launch the 2015 Edge in select global markets.
"The original Edge was our first entry into the world of crossover utilities - a technologically advanced vehicle that was the perfect blend of sedan comfort and efficiency with SUV functionality," says Raj Nair, group vice president, Global Product Development. "Now, we are building on that success, and building on the emotional appeal of the vehicle by offering more of the technology our customers want in a package that meets the highest expectations for quality and craftsmanship."
Jim Farley, Ford group vice president, Global Marketing, says that for three years the company has become the best-selling utility vehicle brand in North America. Ford has experienced growth in North America as well as other markets of the world. The next-generation Edge will help the company to increase its sales in the world markets.
The global utility market, which includes SUVs and crossover vehicles, accounts for 19 percent of total car sales. Moreover, demand for such cars has also increased to 87 percent since 2008. Reports suggest that demand for SUV's and crossovers are expected to double in China by 2018.
The 2015 Edge will not witness major changes when compared to the previous model. Cargo room inside the car is up 7 cubic feet and front and rear passengers will get slightly more leg room.
"In North America, the all-new Edge will feature three engine options, two of which are new powerplants - a standard twin-scroll 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder and a 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6. A normally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine will also be offered. All will be equipped with dual output exhaust and a six-speed automatic transmission," per Ford.
In the U.S., Ford Edge is just behind General Motors Co's Chevrolet Equinox. However, the Chevrolet Equinox outsells the Ford Edge by nearly two to one. Till May this year, the Equinox reported sales were about 102,800. On the other hand, the Ford Edge sold 55,400 units till May this year.
The 2015 Edge will be available in four versions: SE, SEL, Sport and the Titanium. The upcoming 2015 Edge will have a starting price tag of $29,000. The next-generation Edge will start shipping in the U.S. from early 2015 and in Europe towards the end of 2015.
