Ford is mounting a new challenge in the rugged SUV market with the latest Everest. Due to go on sale in South Africa in 2015, the seven-seater model combines a more road bias suspension while retaining an all-wheel drive layout that functions through the intelligent Terrain Management System. 
“The Ford Everest will help to expand our product footprint in the region with a tough and refined vehicle that enables drivers, their families, friends and colleagues to go anywhere comfortably – whether on urban roads or far off the beaten track,” said Trevor Worthington, vice president, Product Development. Designed from a blank piece of paper the Everest has been built to operate across myriad conditions. A class-leading ride height of 225mm and wading depth of 800mm are just two of its strengths. The Terrain Management System incorporates modes for snow, gravel, grass and mud/rock but drivers can still manually engage the low-range transfer case for more control. 
Perhaps more appealing, considering that the Everest will inevitably spend most of its time on smoother roads, is the coil spring front and rear suspension configuration which will make for a more comfortable and safer car. South Africa can expect to get the Everest in a choice of three engines; a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine, a 2.2 TDCi and the five-cylinder 3.2-litre TDCi which will be a big hit for those needing to use the Everest as a tow vehicle. The Everest will be one of the first models to bring technology like blind spot detection, lane departure warning, active cruise control and cross traffic alert to this market. Inside occupants will be greeted by a bigger infotainment screen, better connectivity and, in a vehicle of this nature, crucially more storage. Active Noise Cancelling (think headphones) ensures a quieter cabin by first measuring the road noise and then playing the opposite sound wave through the speakers. 
“With its safe and smart features, a refined interior and incredible on-road and off-road capabilities, the new Ford Everest sets a new standard in the medium SUV segment and represents a compelling addition to our global lineup of SUVs” said Worthington. “Taking advantage of our global design and development expertise, and our proud heritage in the utility segment, we’ve created a vehicle that goes far beyond customer expectations.”
Ford previews next Everest
