The New Ford Everest seven-seater created a stir in the SUV segment when it was launched as a fully imported vehicle in September last year. "Following an investment of R2.5-billion in the Ford Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, we are delighted to officially launch the locally produced Everest – which will be available in Ford dealers this month with a bigger and better line-up that will appeal to a much wider range of customers," says Tracey Delate, general manager, Marketing - Ford Motor Company sub-Saharan Africa region.
Local production of the Everest has enabled Ford to significantly expand the line-up, which is now on sale in South Africa, and will be exported to markets across sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).
Along with the two original high-spec 3.2 XLT and Limited 4x4 models (originally built in Thailand), localised assembly sees the addition of a further six derivatives. This includes five all-new 2.2-litre versions in XLS or XLT trim, as well as the option of a new 3.2 XLT 4x2. There's also the option of manual or automatic transmissions, as well as 4x2 or 4x4 models.
Ford says it expects the Everest 2.2 XLS to be a popular seller. 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 smooth-shifting SelectShift six-speed transmission, with the added benefit of Sport and Manual modes.
For owners that intend heading far off the beaten track, there's the Everest 2.2 XLS 4x4, equipped with a manual transmission. 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 performance and traction in all conditions. This is bolstered by the 225mm ground clearance and 800mm water wading depth.
Common to all 4x4 models is Ford's Terrain Management System with four driving modes: Normal, Mud, Sand and Rock Crawl. These modes are selected via a rotary dial adjacent to the gear lever. It adapts throttle response, gear shift patterns on the automatic models, the intelligent four-wheel drive system and traction control to tackle any terrain.
Those 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.
New to the Everest line-up is a 4x2 version of the 3.2-litre model, also in XLT trim and paired with the six-speed automatic gearbox. Ford says this derivative is ideally suited to drivers looking for the space, comfort, performance and luxury of the high-spec Everest, but don't require extreme off-road capability.
As before, the two top-end models are both matched to Ford's intelligent four-wheel drive system, automatic gearbox and impressive 3.2-litre engine, in either XLT or range-topping Limited specification.
Alloy wheels are common across the range, with 17-inch rims on the XLS, 18-inch units on the XLT and 20-inch versions on the Limited.
Fitted as standard on all XLT and Limited models is Ford's latest-generation SYNC®3 integrated communications and entertainment system, available for the first time in sub-Saharan Africa. It includes a total of 10 speakers and two USB ports for multimedia connectivity. The technology remains the entry-level system on the XLS models, and offers Bluetooth with Voice Activation, plus mobile and multimedia device integration.
Other sophisticated technologies fitted as standard on the Ford Everest include Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Traction Control, Hill Launch Assist and Trailer Sway Control. Further safety features encompass dual front, side and full-length curtain airbags. A driver's knee airbag is standard on the XLT and Limited, and optional on the XLS.
Ford MyKey is standard on the XLT and Limited, enabling vehicle owners to programme a variety of functions into a secondary key, such as a maximum speed limit, audio volume limit, and to prevent the ESP system from being deactivated. Smart and safe driving technologies on the Everest Limited include Adaptive Cruise Control with Heads Up Display, Forward Alert, Collision Mitigation and Distance Alert.
Hands-free parallel or perpendicular parking manoeuvres are easily completed courtesy of Active Park Assist, while the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Alert informs drivers when there is a vehicle in their blind spot while driving or when preparing to reverse out of parking spots. Additionally, the Limited is equipped with Xenon headlamps with Auto High Beam Control, LED daytime running lights, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, a 230-volt power inverter and the spectacular dual panel power moon roof.
Load space is rated at 1,050 litres with the third row seats folded, expanding to 2,010 litres with both second and third rows folded completely flat.
The new Ford Everest shares its Duratorq TDCi engine range with the Ford Ranger, with the engines produced at Ford's Struandale Engine Plant in Port Elizabeth.
New to the Everest line-up is the 2.2-litre four-cylinder unit, which produces a maximum power output of 118kW at 3,700r/min, linked to a torque peak of 385Nm from 1,500 to 2,500r/min. The mighty 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbodiesel engine remains the range-topping choice, delivering 147kW and 470Nm.
Ford Everest 2.2 TDCi XLS 6MT 4X2 - R453 900
Ford Everest 2.2 TDCi XLS 6AT 4X2 - R470 900
Ford Everest 2.2 TDCi XLS 6MT 4X4 - R529 900
Ford Everest 2.2 TDCi XLT 6MT 4X2 - R478 900
Ford Everest 2.2 TDCi XLT 6AT 4X2 - R495 900
Ford Everest 3.2 TDCi XLT 6AT 4X2 - R554 900
Ford Everest 3.2 TDCi XLT 6AT 4X4 - R634 900
Ford Everest 3.2 TDCi LIMITED 6AT 4X4 - R698 900
All models come standard with Ford Protect, including a four-year/120,000km comprehensive warranty, five-year/100,000km service plan, three-year/unlimited km roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. Service intervals are every 20,000km, while 4x4 models include free 4x4 training.
