Based on the success of double-cab pick-up-based Sports Utility Vehicles in the local market (take a bow Toyota Fortuner), it makes plenty of sense for Ford to make a similar play into the segment with the Everest, which is said to combine traditional Ford toughness with SUV comfort.“Everest is a vehicle with attitude to take on any challenge with an endless pursuit for the next family adventure. It is the type of vehicle many South Africans identify with because it suits our environment so well. It is well-suited to daily urban use thanks to its refined comforts, but has the ruggedness to take on any adventure thrown at it. It’s the ultimate family adventure tool,” says Ben Pillay, Ford Marketing Manager.
The Everest’s bold styling in line with the company’s Kinetic design elements (very much similar to the front-end treatment you’d find on a Ranger except that it now features a revised chrome grill and detail. The interior seats seven, with a third row that is either completely removable, or folds to offer what Ford claims is the largest luggage volume in its segment.
Three models in two trim levels, all powered by Ford’s Duratorq 3,0-litre turbodiesel engine, will be available. Driven through a five-speed manual gearbox, the Everest XLT comes in either 4×2 or 4×2 guise. The 4×4 only Everest LTD boasts a five-speed automatic transmission with electronic shift-on-the-fly. The Duratorq unit employs advanced injection technology, an intercooler and variable-geometry turbocharging to produce 115 kW and 380 N.m of torque at 1800 r/min.
The interior seats seven, with a third row of seats that is either completely removable, or folds flat to offer what Ford claims is the largest cargo volume in its segment. The side-hinged rear door is also a unique feature, as opposed to the traditional tailgate that is usually featured in this segment.
Specifications for each trim level are not yet known, but expect standard leather upholstery, an audio system with MP3 capability and auxiliary inputs, electrically-folded exterior mirrors with integrated turn indicators, all-round electric windows and air conditioning. Four airbags and ABS with EBD heads up the Everest’s safety specifications.
Although its official introduction is sometime in November, early units of the Everest have already been sent to selected dealers countrywide.
Prices
Ford Everest 3,0 TDCi XLT 4×2 Manual – R 324 990
Ford Everest 3,0 TDCi XLT 4×4 Manual – R 364 990
Ford Everest 3,0 TDCi LTD 4×4 Automatic – R 382 990
The Ford Everest comes with a five-year/90 000km Service Plan and a comprehensive four- year/120 000 km warranty with service intervals of 10 000 km. Three years of Roadside Assistance and a five-year corrosion warranty is standard as part of the package.