FORD claims that the latest Edge is the most technologically advanced SUV it has ever produced and after a first drive over some testing moorland roads, I can see why they're proud of it.

It's the first Canadian or US-made SUV to Europe for many years, and competes with the likes of the Land Rover Discovery Sport, Audi Q3 or Mazda CX-5.

I drove a mid-range ST-Line with the range topping 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine driving all four wheels through an eight speed automatic gearbox.

And it impresses in many ways, not least the very high level of standard equipment, excellent comfort and impressive performance.

The bluff nose with its upper and lower intakes is very Ford but in this instance perhaps not the best looking.

However, the way it drives it very, very good in every way. The automatic box suits the high output 238bhp engine perfectly, and has a very good kickdown that will drop one or two gears simply by the amount of pressure on the accelerator.

The engine is smooth and quiet and with that amount of power, while a zero to 62mph acceleration time of 9.6 seconds doesn't sound very special, the in gear urge is brilliant.

The drive system takes power to the front wheels most of the time, but sensors monitor grip and add power to the rear wheels in a split second whenever it's needed.

ST-Line spec has sports suspension, which in many cars, spoils what is otherwise a good ride. The Edge is the exception that proves the rule, with wonderful comfort over all surfaces at all speeds, aided by excellent part leather, heated and cooled front and rear seats.

And those seats are hip and back hugging so that the marvellous cornering ability can be fully exploited. It holds beautifully to the road surface through a series of rough curves, with strong body control and excellent grip.

The technology I've already mentioned seems to have thought of just about everything!

Driver assistance includes automatic cruise control with lane centring and a stop and go system that automatically brings the Edge to a stop in heavy traffic and pulls away again.

There is an evasive steering system using radar and a camera to detect slow moving or stationary vehicles ahead and help the driver steer around.

And a post collision braking system helps reduce the impact of a potential secondary collision and reduce possible injury to occupants.

Models in the range are also available with parking assistance that helps with both car park and on-street spaces.

Other equipment in the ST-Line includes 20-inch alloys, automatic headlights and wipers, front and rear parking sensors plus a rear camera, electric tailgate, special exterior trim and a black painted roof.

It comes with a Quickclear heated windscreen, sat nav and a 1,000 watt sound system, DAB radio, Bluetooth, aux in and USBs, mobile wifi, wireless phone charging, keyless entry and starting, traction control and start stop.

That's a heck of a range of equipment and it would probably put a number of more expensive SUVs to shame at the £42,995 the Edge is priced from.