One of Ford’s most popular vehicles continues to be its midsize Edge crossover SUV. For 2013, this practical and handsome 4-door, 5-passenger mini-ute again comes in four trims, the base SE, lower-midlevel SEL, high-end Limited and the nimble, up-powered Sport. A comfy ride, not to mention better-than-average handling, standard V6 power and plenty of high-tech features throughout the lineup are some of the goodies that separate the Edge from the rest. Furthermore, virtually all reviewers remain impressed with a compact turning radius that allows it to fit right in at the mall or outwit city traffic. With its larger standard wheels, the Sport is less ride-capable, according to reviewers, but shows some nifty moves on twisty roadways, and its extra ponies make short work of merging and passing on the highway. Cargo area in all trims, meanwhile, remains at 68.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. In a notable upgrade for 2013, the base Edge SE trim joins its upper-level brethren in offering either standard front-wheel drive (FWD) or available all-wheel-drive (AWD) traction and safety. Rivals to this crafty crossover, finally, remain Chevy’s capable Equinox, Jeep’s off-road-ready Grand Cherokee and Nissan’s popular Murano.

Once again powering the 2013 Edge SE, SEL and Limited trims is the standard 3.5-liter variable-valve-timed (VVT) V6 engine. This potent and efficient powertrain combines with the accompanying 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission for 285 hp and 253 lb-ft of torque and also includes the handy brake hill-holder feature. With the SEL and Limited trims, expect 3,500 pounds of trailer capacity with the optional Class II towing package (including trailer sway control), not to mention 19 mpg city/27 highway in FWD configuration, 18/25 with AWD.

The Edge Sport, on the other hand, stars a standard 3.7-liter V6 engine, again with a 6-speed shiftable automatic. This potent six-banger throws down 305 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque, while VVT helps keep mileage at an EPA-estimated 19/20 in the FWD Sport and 17/23 in AWD versions.

Finally, Ford’s economical EcoBoost turbocharged 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder (I4) powerplant is optional in all Edge trims except the Sport. The direct-injected I4 comes with a standard 6-speed automatic transmission that manages 240 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque to the tune of 21/30, according to the EPA. The full-time AWD system, available only on V6-equipped trims, features a center limited-slip differential and is designed only for slippery roadways, not the backwoods.

In its entry-level SE configuration, the 2013 Edge offers a standard rear spoiler, 17-inch alloy wheels, cloth upholstery, reclining rear seats and remote power door locks, as well as power windows and exterior mirrors. Additionally, expect such standard goodies as cruise control, telescoping tilt-wheel steering, air conditioning and a trip computer, while entertainment features include an MP3-capable single-CD player and 6 speakers. Options include the SYNC voice-activated communications and audio system, keyless entry and a roof rack with side rails.

For the SEL, such added standard attractions as 18-inch alloy wheels, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated power-adjustable outside mirrors, rear parking sensors and dual-zone climate control are all standard. Add in as well satellite radio and a USB connection to the standard entertainment features, with Bluetooth hands-free communications technology also standard.

For 2013, the Edge Limited tacks standard leather upholstery, heated power-adjustable front seats, a universal remote garage door opener, a rear-view camera and memory for driver's settings onto the list, with entertainment boosted by a 390-watt Sony premium sound system that includes 12 speakers.

Finally, the heady Sport trim pretty much combines the best of its SEL and Limited siblings, albeit with the addition of 22-inch alloy wheels, unique styling details, a sport-tuned suspension and, of course, the larger V6. Added options for the three higher trims in either packaged or standalone form include MyFord Touch LCD touch-screen technology added to the SYNC system, as well as a rear-view camera, 20-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, a power liftgate, voice-activated navigation, a power sunroof, remote engine start and rear-seat DVD entertainment.

Standard safety equipment across the 2013 Edge lineup includes 4-wheel antilock brakes (ABS), traction and stability control, front and rear head airbags and dual front side-mounted airbags. A post-collision safety system is standard on all trims, while the SEL and above are eligible for a blind-spot information system (BLIS), high-intensity-discharge (HID) headlights and LED turn-signal-integrated mirrors. Finally, the Limited is also available with adaptive cruise control.

Numerous owners of the 2012 Edge complain vociferously that mileage is far from advertised, while its undersized gas tank means more stops at the pump. Surprisingly, Ford's SYNC system, ordinarily a popular convenience item, comes in for some owner criticism in its difficulty of use, especially in combination with the work-in-progress MyFord Touch system.

Owners do, however, find the Edge to be stylish, practical, and well-stocked with gizmos and goodies. Available AWD, a decent ride and above-average handling also come in for a share of owner kudos.