The new 2019 Ford Edge, with available all-wheel drive, is smart enough to detect driving conditions and automatically shift between two-wheel and all-wheel drive. The feature provides all-wheel-drive traction when it is needed, and helps reduce fuel consumption when it's not.

The system is called all-wheel-drive disconnect, a first-for-Ford technology that uses a form of artificial intelligence that can calculate quicker than the human brain. Based on information received from dozens of high-tech sensors, the new Edge can determine in a fraction of a second whether all-wheel drive is needed.

With standard all-wheel drive and a 2.7-liter V6 EcoBoost engine, Edge ST, the first SUV from the Ford Performance team, has EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway/21 mpg combined.

Fuel-saving tech features on the new Edge include the following: New 8-speed automatic transmission introduces two overdrive gears, which decrease engine rpm for improved fuel economy during highway cruising; Active transmission warm-up uses reclaimed heat energy to warm up the transmission faster; Standard Auto Start-Stop helps save fuel by shutting off the engine when the vehicle comes to a stop and automatically restarts when the driver releases the brake pedal; Deceleration fuel shut-off stops fuel flow to the engine when the vehicle is reducing speed; Exhaust gas recirculation not only reduces harmful emissions, but increases efficiency by allowing a larger throttle position, thereby reducing pumping losses.

To improve Edge aerodynamics, 2019 models are equipped with active grille shutters, full underbody shields and air curtains that create a high-pressure region of air around the outer surface of the wheels and tires for reduced drag.