FORD Motor Company of Southern Africa (FMCSA) has bolstered its Everest seven-seater sport utility vehicle (SUV) line-up, with the addition of a new XLT 4×4 derivative, powered by the impressive and frugal 2.0 litre single turbo engine, in combination with Ford’s advanced 10-speed automatic transmission.
At the same time, the Everest’s lighting technology has been upgraded, with the introduction of high-tech LED headlamps as standard on all XLT models, as well as the Everest Limited.
FMCSA general marketing manager, Doreen Mashinini, said the Ford Everest remained one of the best equipped, most capable and versatile vehicles in its segment, “And these characteristics are especially true of the new Everest that was launched last year.”
“The new generation 2.0 litre turbo diesel engines brought even greater refinement, performance and fuel economy to the range, so we are delighted to be increasing our line-up to seven models, with the launch of the new Everest XLT 2.0 litre Single Turbo 4×4.”
Mashinini added that this new derivative slots in perfectly between the existing XLT 4×2 with the same 2.0 single turbo engine and the powerful 157kW 2.0 bi-turbo derivatives, thereby offering the ideal combination of sure-footed all terrain capability, along with exceptional fuel consumption and superb value for money.
“We have also enhanced the lighting specification of all Everest XLT and Limited models, which now feature LED headlamps as standard along with LED daytime running lights and automatic headlamp levelling. This further improves safety when driving at night, due to the exceptional lighting performance and accuracy of the latest LED technology. Daytime visibility is also improved with the inclusion of the distinctive LED daytime running lights.”
10-speed automatic transmission
As with all models equipped with the new 2.0 litre engines, the new addition boasts Ford’s trend–setting 10-speed automatic transmission. It features an electronic control system with real time adaptive shift scheduling, engineered to help select the correct gear at the right time, including skip shift and direct downshift capabilities. This enables the transmission to adapt quickly to changing conditions, enabling the optimal gear to be selected in order to deliver maximum performance, fuel efficiency and refinement to suit any driving scenario.
Progressive range select, terrain management system
The high-tech transmission incorporates progressive range select (PRS), which gives the driver the ability to lock out gears from the automatic shifting range. This provides greater control when driving in slippery conditions, when towing or climbing steep gradients.
In 4×4 guise, the Everest relies on a permanent four-wheel drive system that ensures optimal grip and control in all conditions. It boasts a terrain management system, accessed via a rotary dial next to the gear lever, to engage the various drive modes: normal, rock crawl, mud and sand.
The system tailors the engine and drivetrain according to the terrain by adjusting throttle response, gear selection and traction control, as well as the engagement of high or low range, with a standard rear differential lock, further aiding traction on uneven surfaces.
Safety features
In XLT trim, the Everest has an impressive array of safety, comfort and convenience features as standard, including passive entry and passive start (PEPS), with keyless unlocking and push button starting. Front and rear parking sensors are provided, linked to an integrated rear-view camera, to make parking the vehicle in even the tightest spaces a cinch.
The impressive standard safety package across the line-up includes electronic stability control (ESC) system with traction control (TC), trailer sway control (TSC), hill start assist (HSA), hill descent control (HDC) on the 4×4 models, load adaptive control (LAC) and roll over mitigation (ROM).
A full Category 1 Thatcham specification alarm is standard on all Everest models for enhanced anti-theft security.
Model range, recommended retail prices:
2.2 TDCi XLS 6AT 4×2 – R552 500
2.0 SiT XLT 10AT 4×2 – R637 800
2.0 SiT XLT 10AT 4×4 – R679 400
2.0 BiT XLT 10AT 4×2 – R693 300
3.2 TDCi XLT 6AT 4×4 – R715 300
2.0 BiT XLT 10AT 4×4 – R744 500
2.0 BiT Limited 10AT 4×4 – R819 400
All models come standard with Ford Protect, which comprises 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 also, with service intervals at 15 000km.
