Ford's 2019 Edge will arrive with a more intelligent all-wheel drive system that improves traction and fuel economy for the midsize SUV, Ford has announced.

The new all-wheel drive system can disconnect power to the front wheels depending on the driving conditions, so the vehicle can operate in two-wheel mode. The system can send up to 100% of engine power to the rear wheels. The technology will be offered on the new Edge ST, a performance-oriented variant.

The Edge and Edge ST are receiving additional technology that also helps improve fuel economy, including a new eight-speed automatic transmission; a feature known as "active transmission warm-up" that uses reclaimed heat energy to warm up the transmission faster; standard automatic stop-start, fuel shut off when the vehicle is reducing speed, and exhaust gas recirculation to reduce emissions.

Three engines will carry over from the 2018 model, including the 2.0-liter EcoBoost inline-four, 2.7-liter EcoBoost V-6, and 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V-6. The Edge ST will pair the turbocharged V-6 with the new all-wheel-drive system. The vehicle will continue to be available in front-wheel drive.

The all-wheel Edge should achieve EPA fuel economy ratings of 21 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined, according to Ford. That would represent a significant improvement from the 2018 Edge Sport, which provided an EPA-rated 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. The front-wheel-drive Edge should achieve 22 mpg in the city, 29 mpg on the highway, and 25 mpg combined.

The 2019 Edge models will be available in showrooms later this month.