Ford Edge Vignale 2017: Luxury SUV Expert Review

The 2017 Ford Edge Vignale stands out as Ford’s ambitious entry into the premium SUV segment, blending American-style proportions with European refinement. This top-tier model elevates the standard Edge with exclusive styling, high-end materials, and a suite of comfort features aimed at buyers seeking more than just practicality. While it excels in long-distance cruising and interior space, questions remain about whether its luxury credentials justify the elevated cost compared to mainstream rivals.

Design and Exterior Appeal

From the outside, the Edge Vignale exudes a bold, imposing presence that screams large SUV. Measuring over 4.8 meters in length, it dwarfs many mid-sized competitors, with a wide stance and high beltline that give it a muscular American flair—despite being built in Canada. Exclusive Vignale touches include polished chrome 20-inch alloy wheels, unique paint finishes like metallic Ruby Red, and glossy accents around the grille and side vents. Dynamic LED headlights with adaptive cornering illumination enhance nighttime visibility and add a premium glow.

The design prioritizes road presence over aerodynamic subtlety, resulting in prominent door mirrors that generate some wind noise at highway speeds. Still, the overall aesthetic appeals to those who prefer SUVs with stature, positioning it as a viable alternative to the BMW X5 or Audi Q5 in terms of visual impact.

Powertrain Options and Driving Dynamics

Power comes from a 2.0-liter twin-turbo diesel engine in two outputs: 178bhp with a six-speed manual or 207bhp paired exclusively with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Both versions feature all-wheel drive as standard in Europe, ensuring confident traction in varied conditions. The higher-output model delivers 450Nm of torque, providing ample low-end pull for effortless overtaking, though its 0-62mph time of around 9.4 seconds feels leisurely rather than sporty.

On the move, the Edge Vignale shines as a motorway companion. Its firmer European suspension tuning—compared to U.S. models—soaks up imperfections while maintaining stability. Active noise cancellation and extra soundproofing create a serene cabin, rivaling pricier luxury brands during high-speed cruises. Steering is light and precise, making it surprisingly agile for its 1.9-tonne weight, though body roll is evident in sharp corners. Braking is secure but reveals the vehicle’s mass under hard stops.

This table summarizes the powertrain choices, highlighting the auto-equipped top version’s edge in refinement.

Interior Luxury and Comfort Features

Step inside, and the Vignale transformation is most evident. Quilted leather envelops the seats, dashboard, and doors, creating a plush ambiance far removed from the standard Edge’s plainer plastics. Heated front and rear seats, 10-way power adjustment for the driver and passenger, and a panoramic glass roof flood the cabin with light. Thick premium floor mats and wood or aluminum trims elevate the perceived quality, though some HVAC buttons feel less substantial.

Space is a highlight: five adults fit comfortably, with generous legroom and headroom throughout. The dashboard’s vast expanse positions occupants far from the windshield, aiding visibility but emphasizing the SUV’s scale. Cargo capacity starts at 602 liters with seats up, expanding massively when folded, outpacing rivals like the BMW X3. Ford’s SYNC 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch touchscreen, supports Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation, paired with a premium Sony audio setup for immersive sound.

• Key Comfort Amenities: Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, panoramic roof, ambient lighting.
• Tech Highlights: Digital instrument cluster, powered tailgate, 360-degree camera.
• Seating: Multi-adjustable leather seats with heating and memory functions.

Safety and Advanced Driver Aids

The Vignale packs a comprehensive safety suite. Standard features include autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, cross-traffic alert, and traffic-sign recognition. Pre-collision assist with pedestrian detection adds peace of mind for family use. Euro NCAP awarded the Edge a five-star rating, praising its adult occupant protection and child safety measures.

Driver aids like adaptive steering and evasive path mitigation enhance highway safety, though the system’s interventions can feel intrusive on twisty roads. Overall, it matches or exceeds many premium SUVs in active safety tech.

Practicality for Families and Long Trips

Ideal for family vacations, the Edge Vignale offers isofix points on outer rear seats, ample door pockets, and a low-load boot floor. Its smooth ride and low noise levels make extended journeys fatigue-free, with fuel economy around 45mpg on motorways for the diesel auto. However, the lack of a third row limits it to five passengers, and its bulk can challenge urban parking.

Rivals like the Volvo XC60 offer similar space with hybrid options, but the Edge’s boot volume and flat-folding seats provide superior versatility.

Pricing, Running Costs, and Value Assessment

Priced from around £42,000 for the manual diesel rising to £45,000+ for the auto Vignale, it undercuts some German premiums but commands a £5,000-7,000 uplift over base Edges. Ownership perks include Ford’s Vignale service with concierge collection, but resale values lag behind BMW or Mercedes equivalents. Diesel efficiency keeps company car tax low, appealing to fleet buyers.

Is it worth the premium? For luxury seekers staying loyal to Ford, yes—especially for its quiet cruise and equipment list. Budget-conscious families might opt for lower trims, saving thousands without sacrificing core practicality.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Competitor Comparison

Against the BMW X3, the Edge offers more space and kit at a lower entry price but trails in engine smoothness and handling finesse. The Mercedes GLC edges it in build prestige, while the Volvo XC60 matches safety but adds plug-in hybrid choice. The Vignale’s value shines for diesel fans prioritizing comfort over badge snobbery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the 2017 Ford Edge Vignale reliable?

Early reports indicate solid dependability, with Ford’s diesel proven in other models. Warranty covers three years/60,000 miles.

What’s the fuel economy like?

Expect 40-50mpg combined for the auto diesel, best on long runs.

Does it have Apple CarPlay?

Yes, via SYNC 3, alongside Android Auto and voice control.

How does it compare to the Lincoln MKX?

The MKX is its U.S. luxury cousin with similar underpinnings but petrol engines and softer suspension.

Is rear space adequate for adults?

Yes, tall passengers fit comfortably, with good knee and headroom.

Final Thoughts on the Vignale Experience

The 2017 Ford Edge Vignale carves a niche as a comfortable, tech-laden large SUV that punches above its weight in refinement and space. It won’t outhandle sports-oriented rivals or match German polish entirely, but for serene highway duties and family hauling, it’s a compelling choice. Test drive one to feel the luxury upgrade firsthand.