Bill Pierre Ford

* 2009 Ford Edge Sport
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By Paul Eisenstein Paul Eisenstein, Executive Editor

Ford is giving a sharper Edge to its popular new crossover vehicle, as the Windy City sees the fourth version of the new Edge CUV blow in for the annual show on the lake.

The Ford Edge Sport will become the first crossover ever offered with an optional 22-inch wheel-and-tire combination — 20-inchers remain standard. The aggressive look is further enhanced by low-profile, 40-series Pirelli Scorpion Zero rubber.

While that might complete some custom option packages, it’s just the starting point for Edge Sport, which follows up with an eight-piece body kit that includes a unique front air dam — with integrated fog lamps — side skirts, lower door caps and a rear skirt, all in body color. The exterior look is completed with “Founder Gray” smoked head- and taillamp lenses, special Sport badges, and chromed dual exhaust tips.

For the Chicago Auto Show, the first-off Edge Sport is shown in Sport Blue, though three other special paints will be available during the 2009 model-year.

Inside, the Sport edition features dark gray leather seats with suede-feel inserts. Contrasting light gray stitching is designed to give the cabin an upscale feel.

The interior package is completed by the edged-metal look of the Sport’s instrument panel.

“The new Ford Edge Sport is designed to instantly appeal to crossover customers who want a sportier custom look and feel,” said John Felice, general manager, Ford Division. “This specialty design reflects the growing popularity of personalization and more customers’ interest in industry shows like the annual Hot Import Nights around the country and the Specialty Equipment Market Association Show inLas Vegas.”

Like the rest of the edge line-up, the Sport edition will be offered with a variety of other options, including the huge Vista roof and the SYNC infotainment system, developed in a joint venture between Ford and Microsoft.

Notably the powertrain package on the Sport remains the same as the other versions of Edge. For those who’d like a little more, hang tight, hints Ford’s global product development czar, Derrick Kuzak, who tells TheCarConnection.com, “You’ll see (something different) in the future.”

How far ahead, he’s not saying, but the 2009 Ford Edge Sport reaches dealers in autumn.