Just like the battle between the Toyota Hilux and Ford Ranger so too do the Fortuner and Everest compete. Ford recently updated the Everest offering and now they have added a new model to the line-up. It’s called the Sport and it is the best looking one in our opinion. Here are all the details.
With its onslaught of Ranger offerings, attention has been given to the Everest. This, the new Everest Sport features a black mesh grille and unique Everest badge on the bonnet, along with black mirror caps and door handles – replacing the chrome finishes on the Everest XLT. Further reinforcing the dynamic appearance is the black treatment for the front bumper chin and rear valance in place of silver, along with ebony roof rails, special Sport decals on the rear doors and striking 20-inch black alloy wheels. There are six body colours to choose from: Diffused Silver, Frozen White, Agate Black, Moondust Silver, Sea Grey and Copper Red.
Befitting a vehicle of its sportier status, key interior features of the Everest Sport include model-specific embossed leather seats with distinctive blue stitching, soft-touch leather treatment for the dashboard and a driver’s seat with eight-way power adjustment.
One of the key features carried over to the Sport derivative is Ford’s pioneering SYNC3 infotainment system, which offers exceptional connectivity and multimedia options, along with intuitive voice control for ease of use. The system comes standard with embedded navigation – comprising standard mapping as well as Tracks for Africa for those venturing off the beaten track – and is linked to an integrated eight-inch touch-screen colour display that recognises multi-touch gestures such as swipe, slide, scroll and pinch-to-zoom. In addition, SYNC3 offers the benefits of smartphone integration provided through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
The extensive standard safety package features an Electronic Stability Programme with traction control, Trailer Sway Control, Hill Launch Assist and Roll Over Mitigation. Enhancing the family-oriented nature of the Everest’s seven-seater configuration, occupant protection includes a total of seven airbags (front, side, curtain and driver’s knee airbag).
Customers have the choice of 4×4 and 4×2 models, both of which are available with Ford’s frugal 2.0-litre Single Turbo diesel engine, delivering 132kW and 420Nm – with up to 340Nm available from just 1 250 r/min. This is mated to Ford’s sophisticated 10-speed automatic transmission, which contributes to exceptional fuel and all-round performance.
Further enhancing the capability of the Everest 4×4 models is the standard Terrain Management System which allows the driver to easily select the preferred driving mode to suit the terrain by simply turning the TMS dial, ranging from snow to mud, grass, rocks or paved roads. Additionally, Hill Descent Control helps owners safely negotiate steep slopes with supreme confidence.
PRICING
2.0 Single Turbo 10AT 4×2 R662 800
2.0 Single Turbo 10AT 4×4 R704 400
All Everest models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty, three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. A six-year/90 000km service plan is included, with 15 000km service intervals.
