2022 Ford Edge SEL Review: Is It Worth Buying?

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2022 Ford Edge SEL: Is It a Smart Choice?

Hey everyone! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Ford Edge SEL. Thinking about buying one? Awesome! I'll break down everything you need to know to decide if this SUV is the right fit for you. We'll cover what makes it great, where it might fall short, and whether it's worth your hard-earned cash. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Ford Edge SEL Overview: What's the Buzz?

So, first things first, what exactly is the Ford Edge SEL? Well, it's a mid-size SUV that's been a popular choice for families and individuals alike. The 2022 model is part of the second generation of the Edge, which means it has seen some updates and refinements over the years. The SEL trim sits in the middle of the Edge lineup, offering a sweet spot between affordability and features. You're getting a bunch of cool tech, comfortable amenities, and a decent amount of space without breaking the bank. The Edge SEL is all about practicality, offering a user-friendly experience. It's got the size and capability to handle daily commutes, weekend getaways, and everything in between. It competes with other popular SUVs like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Rogue, and the Edge SEL aims to provide a competitive experience. With its blend of practicality, technology, and value, the 2022 Ford Edge SEL presents a compelling option in the competitive SUV market, making it an excellent choice for a variety of drivers. If you're looking for an SUV that offers a balanced mix of features and affordability, this might be a great option for you.

Performance and Handling

Let's talk about what's under the hood and how the Edge SEL handles the road. For the 2022 model, the Edge SEL comes standard with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine, which is a turbocharged four-cylinder. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This combo delivers a pretty peppy performance for everyday driving. The Edge SEL provides adequate power for merging onto highways and navigating city streets. It's not a sports car, but it's not sluggish either; it strikes a good balance for most drivers. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) is an optional feature. AWD enhances traction and stability, which is especially useful in various weather conditions, such as snow or rain, ensuring you feel more confident and in control while driving. The suspension is tuned for comfort, which makes for a smooth ride on most road surfaces. The steering is responsive, making the Edge SEL easy to maneuver in tight spaces, such as parking lots. The fuel economy is pretty decent for its class, too. So, if you're looking for a vehicle that's easy to drive, offers a comfortable ride, and has decent fuel efficiency, the Edge SEL definitely ticks those boxes. It's designed to be a practical and enjoyable vehicle for everyday use, handling everything from the school run to weekend adventures. The combination of a capable engine, smooth transmission, and available AWD makes the 2022 Ford Edge SEL a versatile choice, ideal for those who value both performance and practicality in their SUV.

Interior and Comfort

Now, let's step inside and see what the 2022 Ford Edge SEL offers in terms of comfort and convenience. The interior design is functional and well-laid-out, with a focus on practicality. The materials used are of good quality, and everything feels solid and durable. The seats are supportive and comfortable, especially on longer drives. The front seats offer plenty of adjustment, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. The rear seats also provide ample legroom and headroom, making the Edge SEL a good choice for families or those who frequently carry passengers. You can easily fit three adults in the back without feeling cramped.

The Edge SEL comes standard with a generous amount of features. You'll find a user-friendly infotainment system with a touchscreen display, which is easy to use and provides access to various functions such as navigation, audio, and smartphone integration. Other standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control, which allows the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperatures, and a power-adjustable driver's seat, making it easy to find the ideal driving position. You'll also find a suite of advanced safety features. Plenty of storage space is available throughout the cabin, including a spacious cargo area, which can accommodate luggage, groceries, and other items. The Edge SEL offers a comfortable and practical interior, making it a great vehicle for daily commutes and family trips. The combination of comfortable seating, user-friendly technology, and practical features makes it a pleasant place to spend time, whether you're driving across town or embarking on a long road trip. The attention to detail in the interior design creates an enjoyable and functional space that caters to the needs of both drivers and passengers.

Key Features: What Does the SEL Trim Get You?

Alright, let's get into the specifics of what the SEL trim level includes. The SEL is a mid-range trim, meaning it offers a great balance of features and value. So, you're not getting the base model, but you're also not shelling out for the top-of-the-line version. Here's a breakdown of some of the key features you can expect:

  • Infotainment System: The 2022 Edge SEL comes equipped with Ford's SYNC 4A infotainment system. This includes a large touchscreen display, which is the hub for navigation, audio controls, and smartphone integration. SYNC 4A is known for being user-friendly and responsive. It offers features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, so you can easily connect your smartphone and access your apps and music. The system also includes FordPass Connect, which allows you to remotely start your vehicle, lock/unlock doors, and monitor your vehicle's health from your smartphone. Overall, the infotainment system in the Edge SEL is modern, intuitive, and packed with useful features.
  • Driver-Assist Technologies: The Edge SEL also includes a range of driver-assist technologies. These features are designed to enhance safety and make driving easier. Standard features include Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite, which includes things like blind-spot monitoring with cross-traffic alert (helps you detect vehicles in your blind spots), lane-keeping assist (helps you stay in your lane), automatic emergency braking (can apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate a collision), and adaptive cruise control (maintains a set speed and distance from the vehicle in front). These driver-assist features are helpful and provide an extra layer of safety and convenience.
  • Comfort and Convenience: Inside the cabin, the Edge SEL has several features that enhance comfort and convenience. These include dual-zone automatic climate control, which allows the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperatures independently, a power-adjustable driver's seat, which helps you find the perfect driving position, and heated front seats, which add a touch of luxury and comfort, especially on cold days. There is also a hands-free, foot-activated liftgate for easy access to the cargo area. The Edge SEL is designed to make your driving experience as enjoyable and convenient as possible.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Good and the Bad

Like any car, the 2022 Ford Edge SEL has its strengths and weaknesses. It's crucial to consider both sides to determine if it aligns with your needs and preferences.

Advantages

  • Comfortable and Spacious Interior: One of the biggest advantages of the Edge SEL is its comfortable and spacious interior. The seats are supportive, and there is ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The cargo area is also generous, making it a practical choice for families or those who need to haul cargo.
  • User-Friendly Infotainment System: The SYNC 4A infotainment system is easy to use and packed with features. The large touchscreen display is responsive and intuitive, and the system offers seamless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
  • Standard Driver-Assist Technologies: The Edge SEL comes standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assist technologies, which enhance safety and make driving easier.
  • Smooth Ride: The Edge SEL offers a comfortable and composed ride, which is ideal for both city driving and long road trips.
  • Competitive Price: The Edge SEL offers a lot of features and value for its price, making it an attractive option in the mid-size SUV segment.

Disadvantages

  • Engine Performance: While the EcoBoost engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, some may find its acceleration to be a bit underwhelming compared to some of its competitors.
  • Fuel Economy: The fuel economy of the Edge SEL is decent but not class-leading. There are other SUVs in the segment that offer better fuel efficiency.
  • Exterior Design: While the Edge SEL has a modern and stylish exterior design, some may find it a bit understated compared to some of the more aggressively styled SUVs on the market.
  • Limited Off-Road Capability: The Edge SEL is not designed for serious off-roading. Its capabilities are limited to paved roads and light trails.

Is the 2022 Ford Edge SEL a Good Car for You?

Alright, let's get down to the big question: Is the 2022 Ford Edge SEL a good car for you? To answer this, let's break down who this SUV is best suited for.

Who Should Consider the Edge SEL?

  • Families: The Edge SEL's spacious interior, ample cargo space, and available driver-assist technologies make it an excellent choice for families. The comfortable rear seats and user-friendly infotainment system will keep both parents and kids happy.
  • Commuters: If you spend a lot of time commuting, the Edge SEL's comfortable ride, smooth handling, and advanced safety features will make your daily drives more enjoyable and less stressful.
  • Tech-Savvy Drivers: The Edge SEL is packed with technology, including the SYNC 4A infotainment system, smartphone integration, and a suite of driver-assist technologies. If you appreciate having the latest tech in your car, the Edge SEL won't disappoint.
  • Value Seekers: The Edge SEL offers a lot of features and value for its price. If you're looking for a well-equipped SUV that won't break the bank, the Edge SEL is worth considering.

Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?

  • Performance Enthusiasts: If you're looking for a high-performance SUV with blistering acceleration, the Edge SEL might not be the best fit. There are other SUVs in the segment that offer more powerful engines.
  • Off-Roaders: If you need an SUV that can handle serious off-roading, the Edge SEL's capabilities are limited. You'll want to consider other SUVs designed for off-road adventures.
  • Fuel Economy Prioritizers: While the Edge SEL's fuel economy is decent, there are other SUVs in the segment that offer better fuel efficiency. If fuel economy is a top priority, you might want to consider those options.

Alternatives to Consider

If the 2022 Ford Edge SEL doesn't quite fit your needs, here are some alternative SUVs you might want to check out:

  • Honda CR-V: The CR-V is a popular and well-regarded compact SUV known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interior. It's a great choice for families and commuters alike.
  • Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 is another popular compact SUV that offers a reputation for reliability, a comfortable ride, and available hybrid options.
  • Nissan Rogue: The Rogue is a stylish and comfortable compact SUV that offers a range of features and a user-friendly driving experience.
  • Hyundai Tucson: The Tucson is a stylish and well-equipped compact SUV with a modern design and a range of available features.

Final Verdict: Is the 2022 Ford Edge SEL a Good Buy?

So, after all that, is the 2022 Ford Edge SEL a good car? Absolutely, yes! It offers a compelling combination of comfort, technology, practicality, and value. It is best suited for families, commuters, tech enthusiasts, and value seekers. The 2022 Ford Edge SEL is a solid choice. The SEL trim provides a great balance of features and affordability, making it an attractive option in the mid-size SUV segment. If you're looking for a versatile and well-rounded SUV, the 2022 Ford Edge SEL is definitely worth a test drive. Remember to consider your own needs and preferences. Research other options and compare prices and features before making your final decision. Happy car shopping!