All,
At 3500 miles I am very happy with the essentials of my SEL AWD. With a 2001 Dodge Durango as my previous reference point, it is clearly a brave new world. Here are the only current complaints about the Edge:
Vista Roof rattles on bumpy terrain. After numerous trips to the dealer I was finally able to get a technician to ride with me, and the Service Department now agrees that there is a rattle that needs fixing. It is a clattering of the glass panel that is present above 15 mph in the open position. Stay tuned.
If you like driving with the windows down, and this vehicle wants to go at least 70+, expect a wind tunnel that is a beating on the ears. To get a decent air stream, I have to crack the window(s) a few inches and rely on the vista roof for a cooling effect that is on the low end of satisfactory. Even with this window strategy the stereo is hard to hear. The Edge is happiest with the windows rolled up and the AC on---"Dual" AC mode required for Atlanta heat.
The expansive rake of the windshield does indeed present a passive solar gain issue. Ford or the dealer would do better to include a custom-fit windshield shade rather than the complimentary soccer chair I received. The glare problem people have complained about (with camel interior) is an annoyance that has taken time to get used to. Not only the camel color, but the contrast with gray accents and faux chrome trim worsen the visual distraction.
I have read complaints about the lack of a low gear, but I can say that I do a lot of mountain driving and I don't miss it. Concerns about braking have not been apparent--- I had a deer dart out in front of me at high speed and I thought the Edge stopped effectively under duress
The interface with the touchscreen is a little cumbersome, but if you're mostly locked into a few satellite channels its no big deal. I must confess that I haven'y really used the navigation system that much--shows my age I guess (42). Unlike the urban couple in the commercial "(Today is not that day"), I have reached the point in life where I am happy to stay at home of an evening.
I have already enjoyed two occasions when the fold flat seats allowed me to transport some long items that would have exceeded the Durango's capabilities.
I am sorry to hear complaints about mpgs---at least its an improvement step forward from the 5.7 liter Dodge V8!
Any wisdom on the vista roof rattle would be greatly appreciated.
Ironjohn83
