2011 Ford Edge

Pros: MyFord Touch, 3 LCD screens, keyless, MyKey, Streaming Bluetooth

Cons: Time is self set and not always 100% correct; SYNC system feels dated and cumbersome, voice commands to SYNC are problematic (recognition), dare I say too many features for the average consumer (my grandma could NEVER drive this vehicle)

Summary: I needed a family car with lots of safety options for road trips as well as being practical for about town type of driving. What I got was a mobile device that I can't fit into my pocket, and that's just fine! I have not owned a new American car before and was not shopping for one. The MyFord Touch (and Leo Laporte's endorsement) got me into the showroom and later out with my Edge.

The Ford Edge is light-years ahead with MyFord Touch; a system that organizes your car's function and interacts with your devices (iPhone, computers?) in a make sense kind of way. The cargo area is huge, the rear seats are like a living room set and the high clearance give an excellent driving vantage point. I think Ford got all of the mixes just right on this crossover.

However, it should be noted that this is NOT a vehicle for the masses --- the technical interface is not common across cars meaning that the general public would have difficulties understanding and operating the onboard computer. And the interface is not as intuitive as Ford would like you to think it is. Of course, anyone reading the CNET website is probably tech savvy and would embrace this much tech in a car? I know I did!

Expanded Pros:
My Ford Touch (the real reason I bought the car!); The best looking dash in the industry with 2 LCD displays and 1 in the center stack; intelligent access and start (keyless); programmable MyKey for teenagers (to limit speed and radio sound); Streaming Bluetooth music (Pandora, Stitcher?) from iPhone no need to plug in or take up one of the 2 USB ports; Blind Spot avoidance system; customizable wallpapers on the center stack LCD screen; adjustable/selectable color mood lighting (don't laugh? :)