Ford expands Everest range with Wildtrak and XLT models

Ford are expanding the Everest range, which was launched late last year, from two to six derivatives. This expansion includes the introduction of Ford’s legendary Wildtrak specification on the Everest for the use of the same 3.0 litre V6 turbodiesel engine and permanent four-wheel drive system. It is complimented by the addition of a 4x2 version of the Everest Sport and the launch of the XLT series in 4x2 and 4x4 as the entry point into the Everest line up, all of which use the renowned 154kW 2.0 litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine.

Everest Wildtrak

The Everest Wildtrak is an exciting new derivative that is athletic, sportier and more rugged than the core models while capturing the dynamic flair of the Wildtrak series that has been so popular with Ranger bakkie owners over the years.

The design incorporates a Wildtrak specific front grille with horizontal bars and tough mesh, finished in a bolder grey colour. This liquid metallic accent colour is also applied to the front bumper design, which is unique to this model and provides an eye-catching contrast to the super alloy silver finish of the front bash plate, which houses dual recovery points. The bonnet now features raised Wildtrak lettering finished in the same dark grey accent as the mirror caps, rear bumper, Wildtrak and 4x4 scripts on the rear tailgate. C-clamp full-LED headlights with their trademark LED daytime running lights, fog lamps and taillight clusters and a modern look and feel. Added visual appeal is provided by bright-finished side steps, stand-off roof rails and privacy glass. Wheel options include two-tone 20-inch alloys or 18-inch rims fitted with all-terrain tyres for those that are more inclined to venture off-road.

The interior of Wildtrak models gains additional sporty flair courtesy of contrasting yellow stitching on the dashboard, door trims, steering wheel, gear lever and eight-way power adjustable front seats that now incorporate the Wildtrak logo. A dark roof lining along with dual panel powered Moon roof further enhance the upmarket ambience.

The Wildtrak also boasts the full-colour 12-inch touchscreen that operates the latest-generation SYNC 4A infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A dedicated SYNC screen and rotary selector control six driving modes labelled Normal, Eco, Tow, Slippery, Mud & Ruts and Sand. An impressive range of driver assistance technologies includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go and Lane Centering, Blind Spot Monitoring with Trailer Coverage, Cross Traffic Alert, Evasive Steer Assist, Lane Keeping System with Road Edge Detection, Pre-Collision Assist and Tyre Pressure Monitoring System.

The Everest Wildtrak is powered by Ford’s powerful yet silky smooth 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine that produces 184kW and 600Nm and is paired to a 10-speed automatic transmission. The four-wheel drive system uses an electronically controlled on-demand two-speed electromechanical transfer case.

Everest XLT

The addition of the XLT, which is the least expensive model in the series, makes Ford’s exceptional seven-seater accessible to a broader range of customers.

In terms of styling, the Everest XLT is distinguished by a classy chrome finish on the horizontal grille bars, offset against colour-coded treatment in key areas such as the door handles and mirrors. Privacy glass is provided from the rear windows backwards and it shares the same high-tech full LED treatment for the daytime running lights, headlamps, fog lights and rear clusters as the high-spec models.

The interior is similar to that of the Everest Sport, which includes partial lather seat trim for all seven seats, with eight-way power adjustment for the front seats. In addition to an eight-inch digital instrument cluster, the XLT is fitted with a user centric portrait-format 12-inch colour touchscreen that features SYNC 4A and the SYNC off-road screen on the 4x4 model.

The Everest XLT is powered by Ford’s 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel engine that produces 154kW and 500Nm and is combined with a 10-spesd automatic transmission.

In XLT specification, the Everest is available in a choice of two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive versions. The 4x4 model uses a part-time electronic shift on the fly four-wheel drive system, which includes 2H, 4H and 4L modes, as well as a rear differential lock. Its all-round capability is further enhanced by the six selectable drive modes.

Everest Sport

Ensuring that there is a model to suit every customer’s needs, Ford now offer the Everest Sport in 4x2 configuration in addition to the 4x4. Both models are powered by a 154kW/500Nm 2.0-litr Bi-Turbo diesel engine in combination with a 10-speed automatic transmission.

The two-wheel drive Everest Sport is visually identical to the 4x4 model and includes the use of black finishes for the front grille, mirrors, roof rails and 20-inch alloy wheels.

Model range and pricing

All models are sold with a four-year 120 000m warranty. Customers have the option of purchasing service or maintenance plans up to eight years or 165 000km.

 

Everest XLT 2.0L BiT 4x2 10AT                    R 832 400

Everest XLT 2.0L BiT 4x4 10AT                    R 896 300