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Since the Lincoln MKX replaced the Aviator, I don't think if the Edge had become the new Explorer it would have been blasphemy. BTW, the CX-7 does not have a 3rd row seat. It's flat out too small for a 3rd row. We looked at the CX-7 and it's a fun vehicle to drive, probably the best handling CUV/SUV we drove, but it's turbo 4 is very unrefined and the CX-7 is missing too many amenities. I think Ford will eventually replace the Explorer with a stretched Edge that has a 3rd row seat (like the CX-9). It will be interesting to see if the Explorer name is retained or it ends up named something like an Edge-XL.

Since the Edge's main competitor, the Nissan Murano had record sales and out sold the Edge in March, I'm wondering where all the Edge buyers are coming from. Are Edge buyers mostly Ford loyalests who are replacing Explorers or other Ford vehicles with an Edge? Is the Edge making any conquest sales from competitors and importantly taking away any sales from import brands?

We didn't look at the Acadia or Outlook, in spite of their good press, because they are so large & heavy. They are 201." long, which is >15" longer than an Edge and they weigh >5,000 lbs. , >600 lb. more than an AWD Edge.

The owner was at a recent dealer meeting and said HID, 20" wheels, Smart Key, etc. will all be on the 2008s. But the rear view camera & SYNC will not make Job 1.

I've heard that the 2008 order guides should be out April 16 & dealers will be able to place 08 orders sometime in May. I'd sure like to get confirmation on any of these rumors. Could save a sale for Ford.

I'm aware of the cargo management option. What I'm most concerned about is taking a MKX on a trip and having our suitcases, golf clubs, etc. sitting in the back for everyone to see. My wife is also concerned that there is no place to leave her pocket book in a MKX where is it out of sight. It does not fit in either the console or in the cargo management trays.

It looks like your MPG will be very dependent on how you drive it. I took a new MKX for a 100 mile extended test drive. The 1st 50 miles I drove it like my grandmother would, very easy on the brakes, coasted up to stop lights, acted like there was an egg between my foot and the gas pedal. According to the MPG display (which I reset prior to the test drive) I got 22.1 MPG. I reset the MPG & then I drove the 2nd 50 miles accelerating hard, on the brakes harder. The calculated MPG was 14.2. While I realize 50 + 50 miles is a very small test sample it was eye opening to see how dramatically both the gas brake pedals affected the MPG. Which is to be expected with a 4,500 lb vehicle.

Has anyone come up with a cargo cover? That is something to cover up what's in the back of an Edge or MKX. The CX-9, Murano and some other CUVs have covers. This seems like a big oversight by Ford. It'spretty easy to see whats in the back through the privacy glass.

Someone posted this on Fordedge.org regarding 2008 Edge options: Rear backup camera $550.00 Heated & Cooled Seats $450.00 Power Rear Liftgate $450.00 3rd Row Seat $720.00 Headrest Rear DVD Entertainment $1,180.00 HID (or Xenon) Headlamps $330.00 Passive Start System $330.00 Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone Integration $260.00 20 inch Aluminum Wheels $840.00 20 inch Chrome-clad Aluminum Wheel $1,160.00 I assume the prices are US$. I'd like any confirmation on the veracity of that list. It will make the difference between buying a Murano in the next couple weeks or wating for a 2008 Edge or MKX. I'm particularly interested in what the "Passive Start System" is Does anyone know if it's a keyless ignition system like the CX-9 and Nissan/Infinity have? When will the dealers get the 2008 order guides?