By Khulekani Dumisa

The Ford Everest has been a decent performer for Ford and now the company has expanded the range with a new Everest XLT 4×4 derivative to ensure that the large SUV remains to of mind for the consumer looking at options in the segment.

“This new derivative slots in perfectly between the existing XLT 4×2 with the same 2.0 Single Turbo engine and the powerful 157kW 2.0 Bi-Turbo derivatives, thereby offering the ideal combination of sure-footed all-terrain capability along with exceptional fuel consumption and superb value for money,” says Doreen Mashinini, General Manager Marketing at Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA).

Range upgrades

With the new model joining the range, Ford has sought to upgrade Everest’s lighting technology with the introduction of high-tech LED headlamps as standard on all XLT models, as well as the range-topping Everest Limited.

Everest XLT 4×4

The new model is equipped with a 2.0 Single Turbo diesel engine that makes 132kW of power and 420Nm of torque, and that is paired with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission. The transmission incorporates Progressive Range Select (PRS) which gives the driver the ability to lock out gears from the automatic shifting range. This provides greater control when driving in slippery conditions, when towing or climbing steep gradients.

XLT Trim features

As a refresher, the XLT trim comes with a number of safety, comfort and convenience features as standard, these include Passive Entry and Passive Start (PEPS) with keyless unlocking and push-button starting, front and rear parking sensors, and rear-view camera.

Additional safety features include Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system with Traction Control (TC), Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Hill Descent Control (HDC) on the 4×4 models, Load Adaptive control (LAC) and Roll Over Mitigation (ROM).

Finally, the interior boasts an eight-inch touch-screen infotainment system with Ford’s SYNC3 and Navigation as standard. Smartphone integration is provided through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Pricing

The updated Ford Everest range is priced as follows:

2.2 TDCi XLS 6AT 4×2                                               R552 500

2.0 SiT XLT 10AT 4×2                                                R637,800

2.0 SiT XLT 10AT 4×4                                               R679,400

2.0 BiT XLT 10AT 4×2                                                R693,300

3.2 TDCi XLT 6AT 4×4                                               R715,300

2.0 BiT XLT 10AT 4×4                                                R744,500

2.0 BiT Limited 10AT 4×4                                         R819,400

All models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a four-year/120,000km comprehensive warranty, three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance, a five-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty and a six-year/90,000km service plan.