The neurons in the collective brains of our editorial panel were dancing as fast as they could -- like ducks on a hot grill -- considering which permutation and configuration of SUV/Crossover should be heralded over another (off-road hard core vs. on-road soft core, sport vs. comfort, utility and towing vs. efficiency, etc.), and which automakers served up the best respective examples of each.

In the end we concluded that: A) We need more sleep; B) This is our party and we get to cry or faun over any vehicle we want to; and B) The Ford Edge is the best embodiment of a modern crossover vehicle for the North American lifestyle.

Our Editors' Choice winner combines style, room, drive-ability, comfort, safety, efficiency, thoughtful features, and the reassuring feeling that this vehicle will fit your family perfectly, without asking you to pay for something you'll not use.

The Oakville-built Edge is based on the platform that has already spawned Fusion and Mazda's CX-9. It features a re-active all-wheel-drive system (front drive default), and the first application of a new 265-hp 3.5-litre V6, mated to Ford's new 6-speed auto tranny to create one sweet powertrain. Edge is i-Pod friendly, has very flexible cargo areas, and can be ordered with the very enlightening two-panel Vista Roof (9 sq-ft of glass!).

Sweet powertrain

No third-row option