By Xolile Hopa

The Ford Everest Sport V6 is being retired from the Everest line-up. It is a seven-seater, mid-tier derivative of Ford’s large adventure SUV and it leaves with a strong reputation for blending rugged capability with a more stylish, upmarket look. We appreciate that balance and it is a big part of why this derivative will be missed.

Design

The Sport has always been about visual impact. Its gloss-black exterior treatment includes a blacked-out mesh grille, paired with Ford’s signature C-clamp daytime running lights and matching LED headlamps. Together they give it a darker, more aggressive face than other Everest derivatives.It is a look that has aged well. Years on, the Sport still appears modern and that lasting appeal is something we have come to appreciate.

Blue Lightning, a colour reserved exclusively for the Sport, gave the model an identity that set it apart from the rest of the range.

Interior

Inside, the Sport favours a modern, sporty feel over outright ruggedness. Seven two-tone, leather-accented seats are fitted and the driver gets a 10-way power-adjustable seat with heating and ventilation.

A 12-inch portrait touchscreen running Ford’s SYNC 4A infotainment system dominates the dashboard. Behind the steering wheel, an 8-inch digital instrument cluster keeps key information in front of the driver. The cabin feels contemporary without being overcomplicated.

The design and technology have aged over the years, but the cabin remains charming and still fits comfortably with the times.

Performance

Lift the bonnet on the Everest Sport V6 and you’ll find its best trick: a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 delivering 184 kW and a hefty 600 Nm of torque. Ten gears and four driven wheels turn that muscle into momentum whether you’re cruising on tar or tackling gravel.

Throttle response is sharp, the pull is relentless and the fuel economy seems to be better than you’d expect from a big seven-seater. The drive modes let you tune the SUV to the terrain and the Sport never looks flustered. It’s strong, smooth and always ready for the next road.

Pricing

The Everest 3.0L V6 Sport 4WD 10AT is priced at R1,149,000.

With its V6 power, distinctive styling and well-equipped cabin, the Sport V6 leaves the Everest range on a high.