Ford Edge ST review

You notice the extra power right away, but also some fairly heavy turbo lag. This is exaggerated by the slow-changing eight-speed gearbox, which is not up to the industry’s best. This makes the Edge ST feel hesitant out of the gate and slightly wrong-footed coming into corners as the gearbox takes its time to give you the gear you are asking for, even with the Sport button pressed. Despite these traits, Ford reminds us that this is the fastest accelerating 0-60mph ST in the range. But then with all-wheel drive and 380lb ft of torque it would struggle not to be, surely?

Adding to the less than inspirational drivetrain characteristics, the steering and chassis in no way feel sporty and engaging enough to warrant the ST badge. While the suspension is noticeably firmer, there is still pronounced body roll and the steering is both low geared and mostly lacking in any real road feel. Which again is not what we expect of an ST vehicle.

The only – small – bright spot in the driving experience is the brakes, which remained fade free throughout the test, which included an autocross and high-speed work. Brake pedal feel could be improved, however. As mentioned, there is an optional ST Performance Brake package which adds bigger front brake rotors and performance brake pads, red calipers and wider 21-inch Pirelli P Zero summer tires.