Ford Edge Makes its European Debut at the Paris Motor Show

Don't be fooled by its appearance 'cause under the skin you'll find the global platform that also underpins the Fusion / Mondeo. Naturally, that translates to a better handling machine, a far cry in comparison to the CD3 platform of the old Edge.

A central aspect to the improved driving dynamics is a suspension system developed to absorb noise, but not compromise the handling of the American model. In addition to the MacPherson-type front suspension and integral-link independent rear with coil springs and a 23 mm antiroll bar, the new body structure is also providing better torsional rigidity.

First Ford to feature adaptive steering technology

Earlier this year, the Blue Oval announced it's going to introduce adaptive steering throughout its entire model range, but the Edge is the first to get it. By changing the ratio between a driver's steering wheel shuffling and how much the front wheels turn, Ford adaptive steering changes the steering ratio with the vehicle speed for optimized steering response both at low-speed maneuvering and at motorway speeds.

Whereas the entry-level model is front-wheel drive, Ford also offers an all-wheel drive system employing an electronically controlled clutch that can send up to 100 percent of the engine's power to the front or rear. There's a six-speed manual coming as standard and an optional dual-clutch automatic dubbed PowerShift that can operate in two driving modes: drive or sport.

What about the oily bits?

Well, the U.S.-spec model is offered with a choice of three powerplants, all of them gasoline-fed and fitted with auto stop & start, but the Blue Oval decided to shoehorn two variants of the 2.0 TDCi turbo diesel under the Euro-spec model's bonnet. The first has 180 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque, while the more powerful TDCi boasts with 210 hp and 450 Nm.

To come in both left and right-hand drive (for the U.K. market), the Kuga's bigger and sportier brother is a bit different from its American counterpart, but the visual differences are minimal. These come in the form of slightly restyled front and rear bumpers, adapted to meet strict European crash regulations.

Is it laden with technology and cool gizmos?

Why yes! Although it has roughly the same footprint as the Audi Q5 and interior space that almost rivals with the Q7's, the Ford Edge Mk2 crossover SUV is a real treat, especially in range-topping Titanium trim. As such, the dashboard and center console look like they've been designed to be extremely streamlined and minimalistic, with an 8-inch centrally mounted media screen dominating the front end of the cabin.

Sync2 with MyFord Touch is there, together with cool-looking climate control buttons and lots of useful bins and storage areas. A neat optional feature comes in the ford of a panoramic roof that measures 121 cm back to front. Just like on the 2015 Ford Mustang, the all-new Euro-spec Edge gets an active glove box knee airbag. Other mentionable bits and bobs are the the Active Grille Shutters, adaptive cruise control with collision warning and brake support, as well as BLIS (Blind Spot Information System), useful side parking sensors and a handsfree liftgate for easier loading.

No words on pricing yet, not even for the U.S. market. But considering the outgoing model holds a starting price just over $28,000 for the base SE trim level, it's natural to assume that the 2015 Ford Edge will cost Kuga Titanium money (around €27,500) in its most basic configuration early next year, when the new model is slated to arrive in European dealerships.