Hey guys, let's dive into a detailed review of the 2016 Ford Edge SEL AWD. This mid-size SUV was quite a popular choice back in the day, and for good reason! We're gonna break down everything from its performance and features to its pros and cons, helping you decide if this is the right ride for you. Whether you're in the market for a used SUV or just curious, this review's got you covered. So, buckle up!

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about what makes the 2016 Ford Edge SEL AWD tick under the hood. The primary engine option for the SEL trim was a 2.0-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder, turbocharged engine. This engine was known for its decent power and fuel efficiency. It cranked out around 245 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. Now, that torque figure is pretty important because it gives the Edge a nice punch when you're accelerating or merging onto the highway. You also had the option for a 3.5-liter V6, which provided even more power. But the majority of SEL models, you'd find the EcoBoost.

The all-wheel-drive system is a key selling point, especially if you live in an area with rain, snow, or just generally unpredictable weather. The system works by automatically distributing power between the front and rear wheels, helping to maintain traction and stability. This means better grip on slippery roads, giving you more confidence behind the wheel. The Edge SEL also handles fairly well for its size. The steering is responsive, and the suspension does a good job of soaking up bumps and imperfections in the road. It's not a sports car, obviously, but it's comfortable and composed, making it a pleasant vehicle for both city driving and longer road trips. The six-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth and predictable, and it helps contribute to the overall feeling of refinement.

Now, let's address some of the driving characteristics. Some reviewers noted that the EcoBoost engine could feel a bit sluggish at lower speeds, particularly when the turbo wasn't spooled up. However, once the turbo kicks in, it provides a noticeable boost. The V6 option is a more compelling choice if you regularly haul heavy loads or prioritize brisk acceleration. The all-wheel-drive system adds to the weight, so it's not a featherweight by any means. But, overall, the driving experience is positive. The Edge offers a good balance of comfort, capability, and practicality, making it a solid choice in the mid-size SUV segment. The Edge is designed to provide a comfortable and controlled ride, focusing more on smoothness rather than outright sportiness. For most drivers, this is exactly what they want in an SUV. It excels at being a practical, versatile, and user-friendly vehicle.

Interior Comfort and Features

Let's head inside the 2016 Ford Edge SEL AWD and see what it has to offer in terms of comfort and features. The interior is generally well-designed and functional. Ford put some effort into making it feel upscale, with soft-touch materials used in key areas like the dashboard and door panels. The seats are supportive and comfortable, especially on longer drives. The SEL trim level offers a good balance of features and value. You'll find things like leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. These features add to the overall sense of luxury and comfort.

The infotainment system in the 2016 Edge is Ford's SYNC system. This system includes a touchscreen display, which you use to control audio, navigation (if equipped), and other vehicle settings. SYNC wasn't always the smoothest or most intuitive system, but it did the job. The newer iterations of SYNC are a lot better, however, the 2016 version still has many features that were considered ahead of the curve at the time. You also get features like a rearview camera, which is a big help when parking and maneuvering in tight spaces. Other features could include things like a premium audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety technologies like blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. The Edge is also pretty spacious inside. There's plenty of room for both front and rear passengers, and the cargo area is generous. You should have no problem fitting luggage, groceries, or whatever else you need to haul around. The Edge can comfortably accommodate a family of five. Ford has consistently made improvements to their interior quality over the years. The 2016 model benefits from these updates, with a design that is both modern and functional. This SUV provides a pleasant environment for both the driver and the passengers, making it a great choice for various needs.

Infotainment and Technology

As mentioned earlier, the 2016 Edge uses Ford's SYNC infotainment system. This system is a mixed bag, to be honest. While it offered a decent amount of features for its time, it wasn't always the easiest to use. The touchscreen interface could be a bit slow at times, and the menus weren't always the most intuitive. However, SYNC did offer features like Bluetooth connectivity, which allowed you to stream music from your smartphone and make hands-free phone calls. It also had a USB port for charging and connecting devices. Some models may have been equipped with the MyFord Touch system. It's essentially an upgrade to the standard SYNC, adding some extra features and improving the user interface. It's worth checking to see which system your potential Edge has, as the MyFord Touch is a bit more user-friendly.

Another tech feature available is the navigation system. This system could guide you to your destination with turn-by-turn directions. There was also a voice-activated control, so you could control some features with your voice, which could be helpful while driving. The 2016 Edge also had some advanced safety technologies available, which included features like blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, and lane-keeping assist, which helps you stay in your lane. Adaptive cruise control was also an option, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. While the infotainment system might not be the most cutting-edge compared to newer vehicles, the 2016 Edge still offers a solid suite of technology features that enhance convenience and safety.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2016 Ford Edge was offered in several trim levels: SE, SEL, Titanium, and Sport. The SEL trim, which we're focusing on, sits in the middle of the range, offering a good balance of features and value.

The SE is the base model. It comes with a decent set of standard features, including things like a rearview camera and basic infotainment system. The SEL, however, adds a number of upgrades, including leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats, and a power-adjustable driver's seat. These upgrades really enhance the comfort and luxury of the interior. The Titanium trim is the top-of-the-line model, with even more premium features. You would get things like a premium audio system, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety technologies. The Sport trim offers a more performance-oriented experience, with a more powerful engine and sport-tuned suspension. It also has unique exterior styling cues.

Besides the trim levels, there were also various optional packages that you could add to customize your Edge. These packages often included things like advanced safety features, technology upgrades, and premium amenities. The specific options available varied depending on the trim level. When shopping for a used 2016 Edge, it's worth checking which trim level and options the vehicle has. This will give you a better idea of the features and capabilities the vehicle offers. It's safe to say that the SEL trim strikes a nice balance between features and price. It gives you the important upgrades without breaking the bank. Choosing the right trim level and options can really make a difference in your overall ownership experience.

Safety Features

Ford really paid attention to safety with the 2016 Edge. It earned good safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These ratings indicate that the Edge provides a good level of protection in the event of a crash. The Edge comes standard with a number of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and electronic stability control. These features are designed to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision.

Additional safety features were available as options, including blind-spot monitoring, which alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots; lane-keeping assist, which helps you stay in your lane; and adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you. Some models may have included features like a forward collision warning system, which alerts you to potential front-end collisions. Overall, the 2016 Ford Edge offers a comprehensive suite of safety features to help protect you and your passengers. It is a good choice if safety is a high priority for you. Always check the specific safety features equipped on any used vehicle you're considering. This will allow you to make an informed decision about its safety capabilities.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty and summarize the pros and cons of the 2016 Ford Edge SEL AWD. This will help you weigh the good against the bad and make a final decision.

Pros:

• Comfortable and refined interior: The Edge offers a well-designed interior with comfortable seats and quality materials, making it a pleasant place to spend time. The SEL trim adds features that enhance the luxury and comfort. This contributes to a positive driving experience. Passengers will appreciate the comfortable seating and overall ambiance.
• Available all-wheel drive: The AWD system is a big plus, especially in areas with inclement weather. It provides improved traction and stability, increasing your confidence behind the wheel in challenging conditions.
• Generous cargo space: The Edge offers plenty of cargo space, which is great for families or anyone who needs to haul gear around. It's a versatile vehicle that can handle a variety of needs.
• Good safety ratings: The Edge earned positive safety ratings, giving you peace of mind. This demonstrates Ford's commitment to safety and provides reassurance to drivers and passengers.
• Wide range of features: The SEL trim provides a good balance of features, offering a lot of value for the price.

Cons:

• Infotainment system: SYNC isn't always the easiest to use, and it can be a bit slow at times. Some users may find the interface to be less intuitive than other systems. However, the system does offer many useful features.
• EcoBoost engine performance (at low speeds): The 2.0L EcoBoost engine can feel a bit sluggish at low speeds, which can be a downside for some drivers. The turbo lag might be noticeable at times. The V6 engine is the better option if you need more power and responsiveness.
• Fuel economy: Fuel economy isn't the best in its class.

Conclusion

So, is the 2016 Ford Edge SEL AWD a good buy? Well, it depends on your needs and priorities. It's a solid choice if you're looking for a comfortable, practical, and safe mid-size SUV. The AWD system is a major advantage for those who live in areas with challenging weather conditions. The SEL trim offers a good balance of features and value.

However, if you prioritize a more engaging driving experience or need the absolute best fuel economy, you might want to consider other options. The infotainment system can be a bit frustrating, and the EcoBoost engine's low-speed performance isn't perfect. But overall, the 2016 Ford Edge SEL AWD is a capable and well-rounded SUV. It offers a lot to like and should definitely be on your list of potential vehicles if you're shopping in this segment. Think about what's most important to you in a vehicle, and then see if the Edge checks those boxes. Happy car hunting!