As a guy who has a Ford Fiesta ST in my stable, I’m seeing some flack going around the ST / RS owners pages, in reaction to the just-announced 2019 Ford Edge ST.

My take on it: lighten up & look at the broad scope.

‘The crossover’ may not be the type of vehicle that enthusiasts set out to own… but it is something that works its way into a lot of our lives – fact. Especially as families grow & need more out of a daily work horse. So why wouldn’t we embrace an ST version of the Ford Edge??

Ford is giving an option to a broader spectrum of people, and widening the net for buyers who are looking for something with a little more than the generic crossover 'appliance'.

I think it’s great that Ford is giving us this choice. For instance – consider the family that needs an SUV/crossover. The Ford Edge ST will be something the enthusiast in the family can get behind & get motivated about. Another example – for the person that gets a company-car allowance from their employer, the Edge ST will meet a lot of essential & professional criteria. No one at Ford is making you trade in your Focus RS or ST lol… so enthusiasts can calm down on that front. Ford is just giving an option to a broader spectrum of people, and widening the net for buyers who are looking for something with a little more than the generic Crossover appliance. As a car guy, I personally applaud Ford for this Edge ST curve ball… and I think its place in the market will only strengthen the Ford & Ecoboost brands as a complete unit.

Edge ST Enhancements…

2.7 Ecoboost (turbocharged V6), now making 335hp and 380tq

All-wheel-drive

New 8-speed transmission (from current 6-speed)

A more solid & tuned suspension (which was desperately needed on the Edge)

Bigger brakes

Optional 21-inch wheels

ST trim inside & out, with stronger bolstered seats