Ford’s Getting Its EDGE From Affordable AWD

The race is long but enthusiasts cannot wait. Consequently, automakers are setting forth the best of what they have to cater to the modern needs of the market. There is an ongoing blatant shift from sport utility vehicles to cars and crossovers. Nonetheless, one thing must not be left aside. So as to make certain that occupants are to enjoy a confident ride, there must be all-wheel drive (AWD).

Ford Edge and MKX, for instance, are among the automaker’s vehicles that use 3.5 L Duratec 35 V6 engine. The latter can produce up to 265 horsepower and 250 ft•lbf. Ford Edge is rumored to be released for the 2010 model year. Ford Edge offers both FWD and AWD models that come in 2 trim levels – SE and SEL.

Nowadays, the automaker has expanded its AWD lineup to value customer’s edge. The most recent AWD lineup includes Ford Fusion, the Mercury Milan and the Lincoln MKZ midsize sedans this month. Ford auto parts were also enhanced to boost the performance as well as the appeal of the car a bit further. The company announced that the much-awaited versions of Edge and MKX crossovers with all-wheel-drive versions will be displayed at dealer showrooms this coming November.

"Broadening the availability of all-wheel drive comes as a result of listening to our customers," says Brett Wheatley, Medium and Large Car product marketing manager for Ford Motor Company.” She added, "Many drivers who are attracted to SUVs but who are concerned about fuel prices are considering alternative vehicles. Offering a broad range of AWD sedans and crossovers gives these buyers more of what they want."

In one of the surveys conducted, where the respondents are current sport utility owners, it was found out that 73 percent want all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive on their next vehicle. On one hand, in the luxury vehicle segment, 50 percent of owners want all-wheel drive on their cars or trucks. Moreover, Ford responded to the clamor and expanded its AWD lineup.

Ford is expecting to sell more than 500,000 AWD units annually and 400,000 of which will be attributed to cars and crossovers. This expectation is anchored on making the AWD technology affordable. To wit, Ford's AWD models like Five Hundred and the Mercury Montego sell for up to $5,400 less than its close competitors. On one hand, Ford Freestyle is priced more than $3,100 lower than its nearest crossover competitor.

Jay Stevens works as a consultant for an established auto parts store in the country. He has expertise in automotive technology and has extensive knowledge on the auto parts industry.