Ford expands the Everest lineup, here’s what we think

By Miles Downard

What’s this?

The Ford Everest is becoming something of a family favourite off the back of huge success Ford has enjoyed with the Ranger. So to keep the momentum going Ford has now introduced a baby to the range in the form of a 2.2 turbo diesel, expanding the lineup to include eight derivatives available with two engine choices, three specification levels, manual and automatic transmissions, as well as the option of two or four-wheel drive.

What’s the new engine like?

Well it’s been in the Ranger for quite some time – and in fact is a favourite for the bakkie. It’s proven itself to be just as tough as the bigger 3.2 turbo diesel as well. In this form it produces 118kW and 385 torques; good enough for a 3 ton towing capacity as well. Honestly it does feel a little underpowered in an overtaking scenario, it just doesn’t feel like there’s oodles of torque waiting about the fringes. But for all other purposes I’d say it’s got enough get up and go.

Read also: Ford Ranger: Best bakkie on sale today? Includes video.

How do all the derivatives work?

Well there are five 2.2-litre versions in XLS or XLT trim. The 2.2 XLS is available in three versions, comprising a two-wheel drive derivative with six-speed manual gearbox, along with an automatic model that uses Ford’s SelectShift automatic six-speed transmission. The XLS can also be had in a 4×4 model for those owners that intend heading far off the beaten track.

The intelligent four-wheel drive system provides permanent drive to all four wheels, using an active transfer case with high and low range, a rear differential lock and Torque on Demand to deliver optimum performance and traction in all conditions. This is bolstered by the 225mm ground clearance and substantial 800mm water wading depth. It’s an exceptionally capable system, trust me. There won’t be many situations which the Everest can’t master.

Lastly customers desiring an added measure of luxury and exclusivity can opt for the higher-specification Everest 2.2 in XLT guise, available in two-wheel drive form with either manual or automatic transmissions.

Read also: Toyota Fortuner – Missing the mark or best of both?

What sort of fancy kit can I get?

Entry level customers get Ford’s SYNC1 system, which is basic in its appearance with a modest 4 inch display, but it comes with Bluetooth with voice controls, plus mobile and multimedia device integration.

The XLT has SYNC3, which involves an 8 inch display and all kinds of fancy mobile device integration like Apple’s CarPlay. Parking sensors are also on offer across the range with reverse camera’s. The Everest definitely aims to deliver car-like technology to a segment that has previously been left to live with the bare minimum.

All well and good, but what’s it like to live with?

Having only spent a day in the 2.2 litre lineup it’s tough to make a final call. What I can say is that there’s loads of interior space, remembering that 7 seats are on offer across the range in a neat fold-into-the-floor arrangement rather than upright stacking.

Read also: Ford Everest: taking the fight to Toyota’s Fortuner

It’s an exceptionally comfortable and refined car with which to cover long distances. We drove for a solid 5 or 6 hours across varying terrain including dirt roads and I was exceptionally impressed by how quiet the cabin is. All round the Everest, especially in 4×4 format, really does cover all the basis I can think of for a true family vehicle that could literally take you anywhere.

Right, the big one, what’s it all cost?

There are quite a few of them, so here’s the pricing in a simple format:

Everest 2.2 TDCi XLS 4X2 6MT R         453 900
Everest 2.2 TDCi XLS 4X2 6AT R         470 900
Everest 2.2 TDCi XLS 4X4 6MT R         529 900
Everest 2.2 TDCi XLT 4X2 6MT R         478 900
Everest 2.2 TDCi XLT 4X2 6AT R         495 900

The obvious competitor is the Toyota Fortuner that comes with a 2.4 litre turbo diesel as its lower spec. Pricing there ranges from R454,000 to R472,000. Toyota will also sell you a 2.7 litre petrol version for R438,000. There’s no 4×4 version of the entry level Fortuner though, you’ll need to pay R600,000 for that honour, nor is it as well spec’d as the Ford.

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