Ford launches new Everest models in South Africa – Including the first-ever Wildtrak

Ford has launched four new Everest derivatives in South Africa, bringing the range up to a total of six units.

The next-generation SUV was first launched at the end of 2022 with two models on offer – the Sport and the Platinum – both of which feature all-wheel drive.

Now, the blue oval is adding to the line-up the more affordable XLT specification, as well as a new 4×2 layout for both the XLT and the Sport.

Arguably the most exciting addition, though, is the introduction of the Wildtrak trim to the Everest – something which the automaker has never done before.

Performance

Just as before, the Everest is available with a choice of two engines consisting of a 2.0-litre, bi-turbo diesel or a 3.0-litre, V6, turbo-diesel, both of which are connected to a 10-speed automatic gearbox.

The 2.0-litre can be found on the XLT and Sport, while the 3.0-litre is reserved for the range-topping Wildtrak and Platinum.

The bi-turbo units generate a considerable 154kW and 500Nm, but the V6 improves upon this with an even greater 184kW and 600Nm, though regardless of the drivetrain selected, the SUV is capable of towing up to 3,500kg.

Other shared attributes among the Everests include a ground clearance of 226mm, a wading depth of 800mm, and a wheelbase of 2,900mm.

The 4×4 XLT and Sport then use a part-time shift-on-the-fly system with 2H, 4H, and 4L modes, and come standard with a rear differential lock, hill descent control, and six driving modes for Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, and Sand.

The Wildtrak and Platinum, meanwhile, have a permanent 4WD layout and are fitted with Ford’s new “E-shifter” gearstick.

Features

Despite being the cheapest variant in the Everest line-up, the new XLT is still packed with features including LED headlights and daytime running lights, 20-inch alloy wheels, chrome styling elements, partial leather upholstery, eight-way electric front seats, an 8-inch digital driver display, dual-zone climate control, a wireless phone charger, keyless entry and start, and a 10-inch portrait infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The seven-seater also comes standard with pre-collision assist, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, hill assist, front and rear parking sensors, and a reverse camera.

The new Wildtrak, on the other hand, slots in just below the range-topping Platinum, and boasts a number of items designed for off-roading like additional underbody protection and a silver front bash plate.

By default, the SUV is available with 20-inch alloys, but buyers are given the option to swap these with smaller 18-inch rims and all-terrain tyres if they so desire.

The cabin has a premium finish with soft-textured surfaces, leather upholstery finished in a model-specific yellow contrast stitch pattern with accompanying logos, and a dual-panel electric moon roof.

On top of the features mentioned in the lower specifications, the Wildtrak receives a larger 12-inch media screen, an eight-speaker stereo, adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera, and a stop-and-go function.

The option also exists to install Ford’s Active Park Assist 2.0, which allows the 4×4 to park itself in both parallel and perpendicular arrangements.

Pricing

The South African pricing for the expanded Ford Everest range is as follows:

Ford Everest XLT 2.0L BiT 4×2 10AT – R832,400
Ford Everest XLT 2.0L BiT 4×4 10AT – R896,300
Ford Everest Sport 2.0L BiT 4×2 10AT – R918,500
Ford Everest Sport 2.0L BiT 4×4 10AT – R984,800
Ford Everest Wildtrak 3.0L V6 4WD 10AT – R1,084,000
Ford Everest Platinum 3.0L V6 4WD 10AT – R1,146,500

Each purchase comes with a 4-year/120,000km warranty and a 4-year/unlimited kilometre roadside assistance plan. Customers can also purchase a service or maintenance plan for up to 8 years or 165,000km.