 I live in a mountainous area and have been struggling a few mos. a year with my FWD.It was time to go for an AWD.I also need room for 2 dogs, musical instruments, groceries, grandkids on occasion and was struggling with my smaller FWD sedan.I'd put the back seats down on my sedan and the dogs (Border Collies) would slide into the trunk.Needed a bigger car that could hold the road and get up all these hills while filled with stuff...In making my decision, I looked at several vehicles but liked the Edge. Had rented one and was very happy after a week of driving in snow and up and down some big hills.Also loved the tech.