2016 Ford Edge To Feature Adaptive Steering, Sync 3
DEARBORN, Michigan – The 2016 Ford Edge crossover will feature adaptive steering, a new technology designed to help with low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability.
It will be standard on the 2016 Edge Sport and optional on Edge Titanium, Ford said on Tuesday.
The adaptive steering is one of two major feature updates for the 2016 Edge, Ford spokesman Mark Schirmer told Edmunds.
Adaptive steering was originally expected to debut on the 2015 Edge, but the timing was moved to the 2016 model.
The 2016 Edge will also get Ford’s updated Sync 3 connectivity system.
Pricing on the 2016 Edge, which arrives at Ford dealerships later this year, has not been announced.
Schirmer said adaptive steering will be part of a package on Edge Titanium that includes other driver-assistance features. It will not be a stand-alone option.
Adaptive steering is also available on the 2016 Lincoln MKX crossover.
Adaptive steering changes the ratio between driver input at the wheel and the degree to which the front wheels turn.
At lower speeds, such as when pulling into a parking space or maneuvering in tight areas, fewer turns of the steering wheel are required, Ford said. At highway speeds, the system allows the vehicle to react more smoothly to each steering input.
There is no change to the Edge’s turning circle, Schirmer noted.
“The technology makes the Edge feel more maneuverable,” he said.
Ford said after rolling out on the Edge, adaptive steering will be available for other Ford and Lincoln vehicles in the future.
The Dearborn automaker appears to be taking a page from the playbook of German automakers, including Audi and BMW. Audi touts its Dynamic Steering system, while BMW says its Servotronic system can help with low-speed maneuverability and high-speed stability.
The Edge competes with the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, Nissan Murano and Toyota Venza.
Edmunds says: Car shoppers who want to wait a couple of months can take advantage of some new steering technology on the 2016 Ford Edge.
