The third generation of the Ford Everest is impressive. The front with U-shaped daytime running lights and the double clasp is based on the face of the US best-selling pick-up Ford F150 and is therefore much fresher than the face of its predecessor. It is fitting that the desire to bring the Ford crossover into the digital age can be felt throughout the car. The driver looks at a 12.4-inch digital cockpit and uses a touchscreen as the command center for all infotainment and technology. The fact that the air conditioning is operated with classic analogue rotary and push buttons is pleasantly noticeable. Likewise, in addition to the usual cup and bottle holders, there is a shelf directly in front of the automatic lever that is suitable for storing a large bag of McDonald’s fries. Good idea! Especially since you can also fix your tablet vertically in the rear doors. Please imitate!
A vertical twelve-inch tablet dominates the interior. Especially when maneuvering the vehicle, the size of the screen has a positive effect on the camera views. The infotainment is based on the Sync 4 system, which is known from the e-SUV Mach-E. And that’s good. Of course, Ford’s entertainment program is still a long way from the graphic opulence of a Mercedes Hyperscreen, but we got along well with the system. Especially since the smartphone can also be integrated wirelessly via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
The name Everest is already program for the mighty seven-seater with a length of 4.91 meters and a wheelbase of 2.90 meters. Above all. Because you can move the rear bench seat 20 centimeters lengthways, which provides plenty of space when the third row is folded. It’s only for children anyway, as adults go at the very back, at best, short distances. Then the volume of the trunk shrinks to 259 liters, if you lower the backrests of the third row it becomes 898 liters and if you extend the procedure to the rear bench seat, it is a magnificent 1,818 liters.
We immediately felt at home on Everest. In the top platinum equipment (costs the equivalent of around 55,000 euros), a touch of luxury blows through the interior. It starts with the comfortable partial leather seats, with quilted fabric inner panels that can be both heated and ventilated, and the fact that the upper part of the dashboard and the doors are covered with leather enhances the ambience.
When driving, the impression is not consistently so positive. The three-liter V6 diesel with its 184 KW / 250 hp and the maximum torque of 600 Newton meters is the entry-level engine in view of the weight of the Everest of around 2.5 tons. If you think so. Because Ford also offers the doubly charged four-cylinder diesel engine for the entry-level models of the crossover, as with the technology brother, the pick-up brother Ranger. With 154 kW / 210 hp and a maximum torque of 500 Newton meters nominally, it is not that far behind the top engine.
We are on the road with six pots and are quickly convinced that it shouldn’t be less steam. Since the emission regulations are apparently also having an effect Down Under. As long as you let five be straight and are relaxed on the country roads and highways, the interaction between the drive and the well-known ten-speed automatic is relaxed and almost imperceptible. But as soon as you want to wake the tiger in the tank, the diesel announces itself with a surly growl and takes a deep breath before moving on. The permanent four-wheel drive provides the necessary traction in the tight bends of the Great Ocean Road and hides the weight so well that you don’t have to worry about making acquaintance with the crash barriers even in tight bends.
Boat owners are pleased that this Everest can pull 3.5 tons. If the ground is a bit bumpy, the crossover cannot hide its relationship to the pick-up Ranger. Due to the impressive weight, the chassis is stiffer and the 21-inch tires do the rest. The Ford SUV offers the usual driving modes for its class: In addition to the road programs such as Normal or Eco, a special setting helps when towing the trailer and “Slippery” when it gets slippery. Off-road you choose, for example, sand or mud. Ford also pours out the grab bag for the driving assistants. Almost everything is on board, from adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go function to blind spot warning and emergency brake assist.
