Ford Edge, Canadian Utility of the Year

Another coronation of the efforts made by American manufacturer Ford to improve all aspects of its business comes from Canada this week, where one of the car maker's latest products, the 2011 Edge, was recognized as the Canadian Utility of the Year.

The title was given to the vehicle by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) at the Canadian International Auto Show. As usual before earning the recognition, the model has been put through its paces by a panel of automotive journalists. After subjecting all the participating models to the same tests, it was the Ford Edge who ended up choosing it as the winner .

"We are pleased to receive the 2011 Canadian Utility of the Year award from AJAC," said David Mondragon, president and CEO, Ford of Canada. "The Canadian-built 2011 Ford Edge features industry-leading technologies that create a whole new in-vehicle experience."

Introduced in the beginning of last year, the new Edge makes use of all the latest technologies used by the Dearborn manufacturer. Under the hood of the model, engines ranging from the 3.5l V6 to the Edge Sport 3.7l V6 deliver the power, with all the horses transmitted to the wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission. A new 2.0l EcoBoost I-4 engine mated to a six-speed transmission was later added to the range.

The Ford Edge comes equipped as standard with MyFord driver connect technology, SYNC, Easy Fuel, SecuriCode keyless entry keypad, Blind Spot Mirrors, MyKey, AdvanceTrac with Roll Stability Control, Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support, Cross Traffic Alert, 22-inch wheels and paddle activation.