Building on last year's overhaul, the 2012 Ford Edge gains Sync for all trims - albeit a cheaper and only optional version in the lower tiers - and all but the Sport also gain the option of a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine good for highly economical V6-like power. This new 2-liter EcoBoost puts out better torque than the standard 3.5-liter V6 and goes for 3 to 5 miles more on the same gallon of gas thanks, at least in part, to active aerodynamic enhancements - however it is available only with the default front-wheel-drive (FWD) configuration.

The trim lineup for 2012 consists of the same SE, SEL, Limited and Sport present at this generation's outset, with the very same seating for 5. Over the debut generation, this Ford Edge is significantly more refined with updated style inside and out, improved cabin materials and sound insulation, more baseline power and a buffet of newly standard inclusions. It was a favorite then, but today's Ford Edge is well-poised to take over the midsize crossover market.

At the bottom of the lineup, the baseline offering comes with a few surprising amenities - above the expected minimums like cruise control and full power accessories, the SE also features integrated blind-spot mirrors, reclining rear seats, steering-mounted audio controls and configurable top speed and max radio volume via Ford MyKey. Highlights of the SEL include automatic headlights, rear parking sensors, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and satellite radio capabilities.

Moving up to the Limited will fetch features like heated mirrors, leather upholstery, powered and heated front seats, driver memory and a rear-view camera, while the Sport is similarly equipped, notably adding only a sport-tuned suspension and paddle shifters. Major options include rear parking sensors, keyless ignition/entry, remote ignition, power liftgate, adaptive cruise control with collision warning, a panoramic sunroof and a rear entertainment system in addition to optional inclusions of upper-tier standard features.

All-wheel drive (AWD) is now available across the board - last year the SE was left out - but fans of Fords on a stick may be disappointed in the economically tuned 6-speed automatic controlling every Edge. In spite of that, the 305-hp 3.7-liter V6 exclusive to the Sport brings it to 60 mph in just 7.5 seconds, but gets at best 18 mpg city/25 highway in its default FWD. The 285-hp 3.5-liter V6 standard in all other trims is just as thirsty with AWD, but gets about 2 more miles out of every gallon when coupled with FWD.

Although the Edge is certainly Ford's mainstream crossover, short drivers and tall passengers without their own butt padding will find a few minor annoyances. The seats are a little stiff, headroom can be limited in the rear (especially with the panoramic sunroof), and the height-challenged will have to find a friend to close the liftgate if they didn't opt for the powered version. Otherwise the driving dynamics are excellent for an SUV, the interior is easy on the eyes and adult elbows, and the new promise of 30 highway miles per gallon puts the Edge at least on the outskirts of stardom - if not right in the bull's-eye of excellence.