New rugged Wildtrak and XLT join expanded Ford Everest line-up

Ford SA has expanded the Everest range with four new models. The cousin of the Ford Ranger accommodates seven passengers in a 2+3+2 configuration with 176l of cargo space. Drop down the rearmost seats to create a 2+3 configuration with 571l of boot space.

There are two new entrylevel XLT models in 4x2 and 4x4 derivatives, a Sport 4x2 derivative to join the existing 4x4 Sport, and the first-time availability of the Everest Wildtrak 4WD. The latter model slots below the range-topping Everest Platinum.

The Wildtrak is touted as a more rugged version aimed at active lifestyles but with added premium amenities and styling. This includes 3D Wildtrak badges on the bonnet, tailgate, wheel lip mouldings and fender vents; grey accents on mirror caps and front H-bar; and 20inch alloys as standard. Smaller 18-inch alloys with all-terrain tyres are optionally available.

Nine exterior paints are offered for the range and the Wildtrak can be had with an exclusive Luxe Yellow hue. If optioned, it matches the leatherclad seats with Cyber orange embossment of “Wildtrak” on the seat backs and stitching.

The Wildtrak also gets a panoramic sunroof, an e-shifter for the 10-speed automatic transmission, stop/start system, adaptive cruise control and a tyre pressure monitoring system as standard. Options include a driver assist upgrade pack which adds a 360° view camera, active park assist and those smaller 18-inch wheels.

The Sport models have a model-specific styling pack including a black radiator grille, door handles and 20-inch alloys. Also included is a 400W inverter with a household socket for laptops or other devices. Options include 18-inch alloys and underbody protection.

Despite the standard fitment of the smaller 18-inch alloy wheels, the new pair of entrylevel Everest XLTs aren’t poorly specified nor dull in look and feel. They get partial leather power-operated seats, a colour touchscreen, Ford Sync with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, FordPass connect and drive modes. Safety systems include lane-keeping assist, pre-collision assist, cruise control, power tail gate and a tow bar, among others.

All Everest models are equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission, and the 154kW and 500Nm four-cylinder 2.0l engine fitted in both the XLT and the Sport models felt capable for effortless shifting of the large SUV even when laden with passengers and their cargo, whether on road or rock-hopping.

The Wildtrak is available exclusively with the 3.0l V6 engine and 4WD, and is the better choice if you intend towing a caravan or trailer with its meatier 184kW and 600Nm outputs.

In or out of town, the new Ford Everest cruises happily. At the media launch the vehicle’s soft damping made for comfortable progress on rougher roads and was smooth on tarmac. There are huge ground clearances all round, low-range gearing in 4x4 models and all Everest models can wade up to 800mm deep and tow a braked trailer up to 3,500kg.

A standard four-year/ 120,000km warranty, extendable by up to seven years or 200,000km is sold with all Ford Everest models. Customers can purchase service or maintenance plans up to eight years or 165,000km.

Pricing

● Everest XLT 2.0L BiT 4x2 10AT — R832,400

● Everest XLT 2.0L BiT 4x4 10AT — R896,300

● Everest Sport 2.0L BiT 4x2 10AT — R918,500

● Everest Sport 2.0L BiT 4x4 10AT — R984,800

● Everest Wildtrak 3.0L V6 4WD 10AT — R1,084,000

● Everest Platinum 3.0L V6 4WD 10AT — R1,146,500