Comfort and safety scale new heights
FORD EVEREST SPORT ATHOME ONOROFFROAD
The next-generation Ford Everest Sport has hit the showroom floors, now boasting the option of a 3-litre turbodiesel with 10-speed automatic transmission.
Idrove the Sport version from Fairview Motors— priced at $79,490— abold, new, bigSUV with off-road and urban creds.
For a start the V6 offers more power and torque: 184kW at 3250rpm and600Nmat 1750–2250rpm. Those were numbersHSVwere boasting in their first HoldenCommodoreV8 offerings.
The 10 speed ensures power and torque is applied with little or no fuss and helps with a claimed fuel economy of 9.7l/100km.
I can only say I'm informed Ford's proven chassis is designed to handle a range of off-road applications.
In fact the Everest has a tractioncontrol system has specificmodes to handle the most difficult situations— utilising diff locking and low-range options, plus it can wade through 80cm-deep water.
All of this while carrying seven occupants in relative comfort. I say relative because the back row of two seats are suitable for small humans only, but it is a roomyfiveseater with a lot of storage.
Having said that, Ford has given the Everest's third row more legroom than previous models, and improved seats and easier access. Overhead vents keep the air circulating and the rear passengers cool and comfortable.
The cabin is quieter, and for safety side curtain airbags are standard. As well as the4WD abilities, the important features of the new-generation Everest include design, comfort and safety.
Starting with the looks; the Everest is wider and bulkier than the previous model. Ford says the updated chassis and refined suspension are tougher, and the bold, rugged exterior reflects that.
Lighting plays a part in the design — highly designed front lights show the way and the LEDtail lamps accentuate the extra width. Ablacked-out grille, skid and side plates give Sport extra “toughness” and it rides on 20-inch high-glossblack alloys.
Next comes the interior, designed to be a sanctuary.
In pride of place is a 12-inch touchscreen. The Everest has a cloud-connected in-vehicle communication, navigation and entertainment system. There's a host of features, which are controlled intuitively, and a fully customisable display.
Especially good is the 360degree camera view— safety and security in tight situationsmade easy.
Excellent seating, easy-to-reach controls and adjustable steering wheel help make it perfect for every driver and passenger.
Wireless andUSBcharging options, zone lighting, Ford Pass connectivity and Apple and Android systems complete the package.
As well as those drive modes, an uprated towing capacity to 3.5 tonnes is another benefit.
Afull suite of safety features aid the driver and keep everyone safe. Included in the blind spot monitoring system is a setting for when towing.
The Ford Everest has a 5-Star ANCAPsafety rating.