All-New Ford Edge ST: What Happens When You Press the S-Button?

– For drivers who enjoy a spirited run over their favourite roads, the all-new Ford Edge ST comes equipped with the right tools for the job.

The twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 produces an impressive 335 horsepower and 515 Nm torque, and feeds all of that power into the tarmac via its eight-speed automatic transmission and its intelligent all-wheel-drive system.

The Edge ST’s default mode is front-wheel-drive, but when extra grip is needed, the intelligent all-wheel-drive system triggers an internal clutch pack within the transmission, connecting the rear wheels to the drivetrain. This happens quickly and seamlessly – and helps produce more traction and surefootedness while cornering quickly or on uneven pavement, potholes and slippery surfaces.

Surefootedness is also enhanced with the ST’s uprated suspension. Spring and damper rates have been boosted to cope with forces encountered during more spirited driving, while the Edge’s 21-inch alloys and performance 245/50 profile tyres improve handling while cornering. 

Even in standard Drive mode, the ST’s power delivery is astonishing but a quick press of the S button on the gear selector dial transforms the car’s dynamics instantly.

So, what happens when you press that S button?

The first thing the driver will notice is that the instrument cluster changes character, with all digital portions of the instrument cluster switch to display the tachometer.

The engine note changes to a more engaging sound inside the cabin, and the engine response becomes sharper thanks to revisions to the electronic throttle programming. Engine braking is also sharper.

The paddle shifters also become fully enabled for complete control of the transmission during spirited driving. That means the transmission delivers a more aggressive shift schedule, holding gears at peak engine performance levels for longer without changing. Upshifts are faster too, to help maximise vehicle acceleration.

Rev-matching raises the engine speed, for faster, smoother downshifts

Acceleration is one thing – but what goes fast, must slow down – and the Edge ST is equipped with four-wheel disc brakes which deliver excellent stopping power and braking feel. The Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) helps improve vehicle steering control in severe braking maneuvers under a variety of weather conditions. Combined, these features help provide straight and controlled stops and help underscore the Edge ST’s performance pedigree.