2021 Ford Edge Gets SYNC 4 With 12-inch Display

If you like SUVs and technology, take note: the Ford Edge becomes just the second vehicle in the lineup to receive the new SYNC 4A infotainment system, which debuts in the Mustang Mach-E.

For 2021, the automaker’s two-row midsize SUV gets a significant update inside and out. Offered as standard, SYNC 4A comes alive on a new 12-inch touchscreen, the largest in the segment. The latter appears in a vertical layout and is much better integrated to the dashboard than the one in the electric crossover. It doesn’t look like a tablet designers threw in there at the last minute.

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The screen supports multi-tasking, enabled by splitting the display into larger and smaller windows. For example, if you want to keep your navigation route on the screen while changing songs, you can choose to display the radio or other streaming music services in the smaller window.

SYNC 4A also includes connected built-in navigation and cloud connectivity with conversational voice recognition. Staying in contact with friends and family becomes easier, with natural speech recognition enabling communication via SMS and email. Wireless SYNC AppLink, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility goes hand-in-hand with the available wireless charging pad for smartphones. By the way, there are two additional USB ports, one being a USB-C, bringing the total to four.

Innovation continues with a digital owner’s manual. That’s right, no more big book taking space in the glove box. What doesn’t change, however, is the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver assistance features included as standard on every model—Enhanced Active Park Assist, Evasive Steering Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane-Centreing and a 180-degree front camera.

Among the other improvements to the 2021 Ford Edge are two new body colours (Carbonized Gray and Lithium Gray), new alloy wheel designs and new interior trim options.

As for performance, look for the same two engines starting with a 250-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder. The alternative is a 335-horsepower, twin-turbocharged V6 in the top-line Edge ST, which happens to be the most powerful SUV under $50,000.

Pricing for the 2021 Ford Edge has yet to be announced. Expect a slight increase from the outgoing model, which starts at $36,299.