Ford has released pictures and specifications for the much-anticipated Everest model that will square up against the likes of the Toyota Fortuner and Chev Trailblazer.
Styling-wise, it is a big departure from the Ranger bakkie and it appears both stylish and sophisticated, inside and out, but still features body-on-chassis construction.
In terms of powertrains, there’ll be the existing Ranger options of the 2,2-litre and 3,2-litre Duratorq TDCi turbodiesels as well as a new 2,0-litre, four-cylinder EcoBoost turbopetrol unit. Six-speed automatic and manual transmissions will be available. The Everest will offer both rear-wheel and all-wheel-drive configurations with a ground clearance of 225 mm and 800 mm of wading depth.
The seven-seater will feature high-end functions like curve control, lane-keeping aid, blind-spot information and cross-traffic alert.
According to Ford South Africa, the Everest will be launched locally next year.