Next-generation Ford Everest reaches new heights
The Next-generation Ford Everest rounds out the Ranger range, blending adventure-ready capability with customer focused technology in a rugged, refined and fun to drive SUV.
Ford’s objective for the Next-gen Everest was clear: Tough on the outside, a sanctuary on the inside, amazing capability underneath.
Three variants will make up the Everest ‘chain’ in New Zealand – Trend, followed by
Sport and culminating in the new flagship variant Platinum, which Ford says offers the ultimate in luxury and comfort.
Platinum features a premium flagship interior and is powered by the new 3.0L V6 turbodiesel, backed with a 10-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive.
The 3.0L V6 turbodiesel will also be available on Sport, which – like the Trend – utilises the proven 2.0-litre Bi-turbo diesel. Both engines are backed by Ford’s efficient 10-speed automatic transmission.
Platinum’s luxury interior incorporates a panoramic roof along with10-way power adjustable heated and ventilated premium leather accented front seats, with quilted inserts and signature Platinum badging, while heating extends to the seats in the second row.
Ford has prioritised flexible seating in the Next-gen Everest. Access to the third-row seats is now easier thanks to second-row seats that slide further forward than before.
All occupants now have places to store their things and charge devices with power outlets in all three rows.
Importantly, both the second and third row seats have been designed to fold flat to allow for long loads to be carried safely.
Ford has incorporated the latest connectivity and technology features into the Next-gen Everest.
Everest comes with an 8 or 12.4-inch digital instrument panel that replaces the traditional analogue clusters and incorporates the new generation Ranger’s signature high-resolution portrait 12-inch touchscreen.
The portrait-orientated screen is also linked to a 360-degree camera with split-view display to make parking a breeze in tight urban spaces or to assist when negotiating particularly tricky terrain while out exploring.
And speaking of exploring; Next-gen Everest with underbody protection and off-road selectable drive modes, along with rear locking differential, two functional tow hooks upfront, and an auxiliary switch bank for accessories.
Everest’s 4WD powertrain features an advanced, permanent system with an electronically controlled on-demand two-speed electromechanical transfer case (EMTC) sporting selectable drive modes.
As well as being able to tow up to 3500kg (braked) the Everest can be equipped with a factory Tow Pack, with an integrated trailer brake controller and a new tow-haul drive mode to improve gearshift response.
With new integrated roof rails – or Platinum-specific stand-off roof rails – Everest’s roof can now support static loads of up to 350kg and dynamic loads of up to 100kg, for increased versatility.
Everest comes loaded with new and enhanced driver assist technologies and safety features such as the new far-side airbag positioned between the driver and front passenger provides additional protection in the event of a side impact. This addition brings the number of airbags up to nine, including front driver and passenger, dual seat side thorax airbags and dual side curtain airbags which cover all three rows.
Next-gen Everest Platinum is equipped with Active Park Assist 2.0.
The system takes care of the steering, shifting, acceleration and braking to navigate into parallel or perpendicular parking spaces with ease. It will also drive itself out of a parallel parking spot when prompted.
New to Everest is Ford’s intelligent
Adaptive Cruise Control system with Lane Centring which helps you maintain the correct speed when you are on the road.
The IACC Stop & Go system can slow down your Everest if traffic ahead has stopped or slowed and speed sign recognition is now part of the IACC package.