The 2019 Ford Edge SEL represents a significant refinement in the mid-size SUV segment, blending sophisticated European-inspired design with practical American engineering. This specific trim level targets the discerning buyer who seeks a balance between comfort, technology, and capability without venturing into the premium luxury price bracket. Under the hood, the 2019 model year offered a robust 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6, delivering responsive power and a confident driving experience that surpassed its competitors. The SEL designation sits squarely in the middle of the Edge lineup, providing an ideal platform for families and professionals who desire a heightened level of standard features and refined appointments.
Exterior Design and Dimensions
Visually, the 2019 Ford Edge SEL commands attention with its assertive front grille and sculpted lines that convey a sense of muscular elegance. The signature LED headlight design not only enhances visibility but also projects a premium aesthetic that sets the vehicle apart in crowded parking lots. The addition of alloy wheels and chrome accents on the SEL trim elevates the overall look, making it a stylish choice for those who value appearance. In terms of practicality, the vehicle offers generous interior volume, with the second-row bench seat providing ample room for passengers and the available third row adding surprising versatility for road trips.
Interior Comfort and Materials
Step inside the 2019 Edge SEL, and the focus shifts to a cabin that prioritizes both luxury and functionality. The use of soft-touch materials and premium leather upholstery on the SEL trim creates an atmosphere that feels genuinely upscale, a rarity in its class. The driver-centric cockpit is intuitive and well-laid out, ensuring that all essential controls are within easy reach. Heated front and second-row seats are standard, a feature that proves invaluable during colder months, while the power-adjustable driver’s seat offers exceptional support during long drives.
Performance and Handling Dynamics
Powering the 2019 Edge SEL is the 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, a technological marvel that produces 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. This configuration provides more than enough thrust for highway merging and confident overtaking, dispelling any notions of the Edge being merely a casual commuter. The power is transmitted through a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission, which adeptly balances fuel efficiency during cruising with responsive performance when called upon. The handling is taut and precise, thanks to the standard rear-wheel-drive layout and available all-wheel-drive system, which instills confidence in various weather conditions.
Technology and Infotainment
Ford equipped the SEL with a comprehensive suite of technology designed to keep occupants connected and entertained. The centerpiece of the dashboard is a large 8-inch touchscreen SYNC 3 infotainment system, which remains highly responsive and user-friendly compared to newer interfaces. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard, allowing seamless smartphone mirroring for navigation and music streaming. Advanced safety features, including Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert and Lane-Keeping System, are bundled into the SEL package, providing peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike.
The 2019 model year also saw improvements in cabin quietness, with enhanced sound insulation effectively muffling road and wind noise. This, combined with the available premium Bose audio system, creates a serene environment where the music can truly shine. The tri-zone automatic climate control ensures that the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers can all enjoy their preferred temperature settings, a detail that significantly enhances long-term comfort.
