Ford supplements the Everest lineup with the introduction of the XLT and Wildtrak derivatives while bolstering the range with the addition of a 4×2 format Sport model. Whether you're on a budget or looking for some added style, the Ford Everest now has you covered.
The Next-Gen Ford Everest has been with us since September 2022 but only in top-tier Platinum and Sport 4×4 trims. Ford has elected to expand the range, offering more choices for consumers who are in the market for what Ford calls a Medium Traditional SUV ie: a 7-seater SUV with off-roading abilities. They’ve expanded the range to now include a Wildtrak version, XLT trim in both 4×4 and 4×2 configurations and added an Everest Sport in 4×2 guise.
Rather than offering extensive options lists for core features that never translate on the second-hand market, Ford is offering the Everest in these four trims now, each with its own merits and benefits in configurations that allow both the urban commuter and serious off-roader to capitalize on the design execution.
To recap, the Everest is available with either a 2.0-litre BiTurbo diesel or a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine with no single turbo variant on offer. You now get the choice of 4×4, 4×2, or 4WD (in the case of the 3.0 V6 models). The T6.2 chassis has been revised to move the front suspension mounting points forward by 50 mm and the rear shock absorber mounting points rest outside of the chassis legs, rather than inside them. This provides a longer, more stable wheelbase and improves interior space for both passengers and cargo.
The off-road credentials remain impressive with an approach angle of 30.4-deg, a departure angle of 25.3-deg, a break-over angle of 22.2-deg, and a wading depth of 800 mm. The new electromechanical permanent four-wheel-drive system fitted to the 3.0 V6 variants allows for driving in the 4A (4-wheel-drive Auto) mode with the Everest left to calculate how much power to send to each wheel to ensure the best traction possible, no matter the circumstances.
Ford Everest Wildtrak
The Wildtrak trim was formerly reserved for the Range alone but based on the sales success of the Ranger version, Ford has created the Everest Wildtrak that carries the same adventurous, out-doors appeal as that of its double- (and now Super) cab offerings. This model is only available with the 3.0-litre, 184 kW and 600 Nm turbodiesel V6 and this is mated to a 10-speed automatic gearbox – as you would find in the Platinum variant. Power is sent to all four wheels through the aforementioned 4WD system with shift-on-the-fly and that auto mode.
LED Daytime Running Lights complement the C-Clamp LED headlights and the grill bar and grill surround are finished off in a metallic dark grey, the same as one would find on a Ranger Wildtrak. The front bumper is unique to the Wildtrak version and features a large, H-shaped element, also finished off in the same grey. Stand-off roof rails and a brushed silver garnish on the running boards further separate the Wildtrak from the rest of the crowd while a set of 20-inch alloy wheels rest in the corners. These can, for no additional charge, be switched out at the time of purchase for 18-inch alloy wheels with all-terrain tyres should you wish to be a little more adventurous with your new Wildtrak.
The interior gets the same Wildtrak treatment and that sees the addition of the bright orange stitching and Wildtrak logo on the back of the leather upholstery. The Wildtrak gets the same fare of a 12-inch portrait infotainment system with SYNC 4A installed, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as wireless charging and connectivity to the FordPass app via the integrated modem.
The 3.0 V6 is a gem and the low-down torque delivery makes it simple to drive both in traffic and off-road. The rather intuitive 4WD system in 4A mode makes the rough stuff absolute child’s play and still offers traditional 2H, 4H, and 4L options. This is the pic of the litter and feels far more off-road ready than the more upmarket and elegant Platinum version. Both trims offer similar in the way of features but it’s clear to see that the Platinum will be preferred by those who have no intention of venturing off the beaten path.
Ford Everest XLT
When the Next-Gen Ford Everest launched, the intention was to only offer two model trims; Sport and Platinum, the former with the smaller, 2.0-litre BiTurbo diesel engine, an entry point into Everest ownership. Customer demand, and a gap that Ford identified in the market, has led them to offer a trim level one rung lower than that of the Sport, saving customers money by excluding certain features that were deemed frivolous. This places the XLT trim below the Sport models, saving nearly R100 000 over the equivalent Sport, and almost R200 000 over a similar Wildtrak.
The XLT is available with the 154 kW 2.0-litre BiTurbo engine that produces 500 Nm torque. It’s still able to tow a braked load of 3 500 kg and sends power to the wheel through a 10-speed automatic gearbox. You will also be able to choose between 4×4 and 4×2 so if the off-road adventures are not your thing, save yourself some additional money and opt for the 4×2. Be warned though, as much as the XLT is equipped with body colour door handles and mirrors, the 4×2 has to make do with black mirror caps and door handles. It still gets a partial chrome treatment to the front grille bar and receives slimline black roof rails.
The interior is still well equipped though and the LXT models also get a large infotainment screen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Synthetic partial leather seats still get 8-way electric adjustment with lumbar support for both driver and passenger. There are still multiple USB power outlets scattered throughout the cabin catering for both Type A and Type C connections. The XLT does forego the 400-watt inverter system though.
You will still benefit from the advances in the chassis and drivetrain in the XLT model and at no point in our launch drive through the Pilanesberg area did we want for anything. Power delivery is smooth and the gearbox is where it needs to be; out of mind and unobtrusive. The fuel consumption savings of the 2.0-litre engine further appeal to those who are budget conscious.
Pricing
Further bolstering the Everest range is the introduction of a 4×2 format Sport model, allowing for money to be saved should you prefer the Sport look to the XLT but have little need for the full 4×4 capabilities of the Everest.
| Model | Price |
| Everest XLT 2.0L BiT 4×2 10AT | R832 400 |
| Everest XLT 2.0L BiT 4×4 10AT | R896 300 |
| Everest Sport 2.0L BiT 4×2 10AT | R918 500 |
| Everest Sport 2.0L BiT 4×4 10AT | R984 800 |
| Everest Wildtrak 3.0L V6 4WD 10AT | R1 084 000 |
| Everest Platinum 3.0L V6 4WD 10AT | R1 146 500 |
Keyword: Ford Everest Wildtrak & XLT (2023) First Drive Review - Everest range expands offering more choice