- New Ford Everest range includes eight derivatives, three specification levels: XLS, XLT and Limited
- Choice of 2.2-litre and 3.2-litre Duratorq TDCi engines, manual or auto, 4×2 or 4×4 models
- Introduces latest-generation SYNC®3 integrated communications and entertainment system as part of trend-setting smart technologies
PRETORIA, South Africa, 2 November 2016 – The Ford Everest is set to become a more compelling and competitive choice in the highly contested sport utility vehicle market, now offering a broader range and better value for money than ever before.
This is thanks to the launch of the expanded model line-up comprising a total of eight derivatives available with two engine choices, three specification levels, manual and automatic transmissions, as well as the option of two or four-wheel drive.
“The New Ford Everest seven-seater created a huge stir in the SUV segment when it was launched as a fully imported vehicle in September last year, delivering outstanding levels of sophistication, luxury, all-terrain performance and versatility,” says Tracey Delate, General Manager, Marketing – Ford Motor Company Sub-Saharan Africa Region.
“Today, following an investment of R2.5-billion in the Ford Silverton Assembly Plant in Pretoria, we are delighted to officially launch the locally produced Everest – which will be available in Ford dealers this month with a bigger and better line-up that will appeal to a much wider range of customers.
“As one of the most sophisticated vehicles in its segment, the Everest is the first model to feature the latest-generation SYNC®3 integrated communications and entertainment system that provides even more innovative ways of staying connected on the move,” Delate adds.
Model range
Local production of the Everest has enabled Ford to significantly expand the line-up, which is now on sale in South Africa, and will be exported to markets across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).
Along with the two original high-spec 3.2 XLT and Limited 4×4 models (originally built in Thailand), localised assembly sees the addition of a further six derivatives, all built to Ford’s stringent global quality standards. This includes five all-new 2.2-litre versions in XLS or XLT trim, as well as the option of a new 3.2 XLT 4×2.
“Our new and much broader line-up for the Ford Everest meets the need for high-value mid-range models, which dominate the sales in this segment,” Delate says. “Buyers now also have the option of manual or automatic transmissions, as well as 4×2 or 4×4 models to suit their specific needs.
“We expect the Everest 2.2 XLS to be an extremely popular seller. It offers the practicality of a seven-seater configuration, impressive levels of standard specification, great performance and outstanding value for money.”
The 2.2 XLS is available in three versions, comprising a two-wheel drive derivative with six-speed manual gearbox, along with an automatic model that uses Ford’s smooth-shifting SelectShift six-speed transmission to deliver seamless power and refinement, with the added benefit of Sport and Manual modes for ultimate control.
For owners that intend heading far off the beaten track, there’s the Everest 2.2 XLS 4×4, equipped with a manual transmission. The intelligent four-wheel drive system provides permanent drive to all four wheels, using an active transfer case with high and low range, a rear differential lock and Torque on Demand to deliver optimum performance and traction in all conditions. This is bolstered by the 225mm ground clearance and substantial 800mm water wading depth.
Common to all 4×4 models is Ford’s innovative Terrain Management System that boasts four driving modes: Normal, Mud, Sand and Rock Crawl. These modes are easily selected via a convenient rotary dial adjacent to the gear lever. It adapts throttle response, gear shift patterns on the automatic models, the intelligent four-wheel drive system and traction control to confidently tackle any terrain.
Customers desiring an added measure of luxury and exclusivity can opt for the higher-specification Everest 2.2 in XLT guise, available in two-wheel drive form with either manual or automatic transmissions.
New to the Everest line-up is a 4×2 version of the powerful 3.2-litre model, also in XLT trim and paired with the six-speed automatic gearbox. This derivative is ideally suited to customers looking for the space, comfort, performance and luxury of the high-spec Everest, but don’t require extreme off-road capability.
As before, the two top-end models are both matched to Ford’s intelligent four-wheel drive system, automatic gearbox and impressive 3.2-litre engine, in either XLT or range-topping Limited specification.
Alloy wheels are common across the range, with 17-inch rims on the XLS, attractive 18-inch units on the XLT and striking 20-inch versions on the Limited.
Smart technologies including all-new SYNC®3
In line with its sophisticated character, the Ford Everest boasts a high level of standard comfort, convenience and safety features that make it one of the smartest and most advanced SUVs on the market.
One of the most exciting new technologies, available for the first time in Sub-Saharan Africa, is Ford’s latest-generation SYNC®3 integrated communications and entertainment system, fitted as standard on all XLT and Limited models. It includes a total of 10 speakers and two USB ports for multimedia connectivity.
SYNC®1 remains the entry-level system on the XLS models, and offers Bluetooth with Voice Activation, plus mobile and multimedia device integration.
Numerous other sophisticated technologies fitted as standard on the Ford Everest include Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Traction Control, Hill Launch Assist and Trailer Sway Control.
Further safety features encompass dual front, side and full-length curtain airbags. A driver’s knee airbag is standard on the XLT and Limited, and optional on the XLS.
All three specification grades include rear parking sensors linked to a full colour rear view parking camera on the 4-inch display for the XLS or the 8-inch touch screen for XLT and Limited – the latter also featuring front parking sensors.
Ford MyKey is standard on the XLT and Limited, enabling vehicle owners to programme a variety of functions into a secondary key, such as a maximum speed limit, audio volume limit, and to prevent the ESP system from being deactivated.
The extensive range of smart and safe driving technologies on the Everest Limited make it stand out even further. These include Adaptive Cruise Control with Heads Up Display, Forward Alert, Collision Mitigation and Distance Alert.
Hands-free parallel or perpendicular parking manoeuvres are easily completed courtesy of Active Park Assist, while the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross Traffic Alert informs drivers when there is a vehicle in their blind spot while driving or when preparing to reverse out of parking spots.
Additionally, the Limited is equipped with Xenon headlamps with Auto High Beam Control, distinctive LED daytime running lights, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System, a useful 230-volt power inverter and the spectacular dual panel power moon roof.
A powered rear tailgate and power-fold third-row seats on the Limited add optimal convenience and ease-of-use for the seven-seat layout. On the XLS and XLT, the rear seats can be collapsed manually, while the second row can be slid and tipped forward to aid access to the rear, reclined for added comfort, or folded flat.
Load space is rated at 1 050 litres with the third row seats folded, expanding to 2 010 litres with both second and third rows folded completely flat.
Efficient performance
The new Ford Everest shares its outstanding Duratorq TDCi engine range with the Ford Ranger, with the engines produced at Ford’s Struandale Engine Plant in Port Elizabeth.
New to the Everest line-up is the refined and extremely capable 2.2-litre four-cylinder unit, which produces a maximum power output of 118kW at 3 700r/min, linked to a torque peak of 385Nm from 1 500 to 2 500r/min – thus ensuring impressive performance in all conditions.
The mighty 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbodiesel engine remains the range-topping choice, delivering 147kW and a massive 470Nm for superlative all-round performance.
Both versions are rated for a maximum towing capacity of 3 000kg, reinforcing the Everest’s exceptional all-round capabilities – particularly as a lifestyle vehicle.
Ford Everest expanded model range
Ford Everest 2.2 TDCi XLS 6MT 4X2
Ford Everest 2.2 TDCi XLS 6AT 4X2
Ford Everest 2.2 TDCi XLS 6MT 4X4
Ford Everest 2.2 TDCi XLT 6MT 4X2
Ford Everest 2.2 TDCi XLT 6AT 4X2
Ford Everest 3.2 TDCi XLT 6AT 4X2
Ford Everest 3.2 TDCi XLT 6AT 4X4
Ford Everest 3.2 TDCi LIMITED 6AT 4X4
All models come standard with Ford Protect, including a four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty, five-year/100 000km service plan, three-year/unlimited km roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty.
Service intervals are every 20 000km, while 4×4 models include free 4×4 training.
