There is space for days...
There's space, and then some. Even in the rearmost row, where you would normally only squeeze in the smallest and shortest members of the family, two average-sized adults will be seated comfortably. Teenagers would probably enjoy being as far away form the parents as possible! The rearmost seats can also be removed quite easily should you require more luggage space.
Related: Read our 2019 Ford Everest launch report here
Excellent standard specification on each model in the line-up
XLS models
The most affordable XLS model, powered by Ford's trusty 2.2-litre Duratorq diesel engine, is remarkably well-equipped. It has a six-speed automatic transmission and 4x2 drivetrain with a rear diff lock to get you out of trouble should the need arise.
Included in the XLS package are 17-inch wheels, front fog lamps, side steps, roof rails, parking sensors and a rear-view camera. The XLS model is fitted with four-inch colour screen which forms part of Ford's SYNC 1 system. It has eight speakers and the cabin is quiet thanks to Ford's Active Noise cancellation system. Bluetooth, AUX/USB ports and audio streaming are standard, but should you want the SYNC3 with its sat-nav system, you will pay for the privilege.
In the second row, occupants have their own air-conditioning controls, and both second and third row have one 12V power socket at their disposal. There are two more in front, bringing the total to four.
Related: Check out this Everest XLS 2.2 6MT 4WD video from 2017
XLT models
XLT variants can be had in 4x2 or 4x4 guise with Ford's 2.0-litre single- or bi-turbo engine, mated to a 10 speed auto-'box, or the trusty 3.2-litre five-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed auto. The XLT has a few more blingy bits, including 19-inch alloys, heated side mirrors with puddle lamps, silver roof rails and daytime running lamps and LED tail lamps.
On the inside, messy kids won't get told off too often when there are spills, since leather seats are standard in this model as well as the Limited variant.
Other features include dual-zone electronic climate control, automatic headlamp activation, rain-sensing windscreen wipers, an electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, high-level full-colour digital instrumentation and rear-view camera with parking sensors.
SYNC®3 with Navigation is standard on the XLT, incorporating 10 speakers, dual USB ports and an eight-inch touch screen display.
Related: Ford Everest new vs. used: Top ten differences
Limited models
The range-topping Limited model gets all the bells and whistles, including the bi-turbo engine, 20-inch wheels (you can spec 18-inchers if you're keen on the great outdoors), HID headlamps with auto-levelling and high-beam control, LED daytime running lamps and LED tail lights.
Other highlights include a dark roof lining, illuminated front scuff plates, eight-way power and heated front seats, a panoramic glass moon roof, and adaptive ambient lighting with multiple colour choices.
Access to the load compartment is easy thanks to a powered tailgate, while the 50:50 split third-row rear seats can be lowered or raised electrically.
It has class-leading safety credentials
The standard safety package across the entire Everest range incorporates Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with Traction Control (TC), Trailer Sway Control (TSC), Hill Start Assist (HSA), Adaptive Load Control (ALC) and Roll Over Mitigation (ROM). Seven airbags (dual front, side, curtain and driver’s knee airbags) are standard. All seven seats have three-point seatbelts. ISOFIX points are available for your child seat(s).
Should you occasionally lend your Everest to a son or daughter, the Ford MyKey in XLT & Limited models "provides peace of mind when the vehicle is being driven by secondary drivers, as it can be configured to inhibit incoming phone calls; restrict top speed; prevent deactivation of driver assistance and safety features; reduce audio system maximum volume, and disable the audio system altogether if occupants are not using safety belts", says Ford.
The safety features on the Limited models are endless. These include Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Alert with Autonomous Braking (enhanced to detect pedestrians), Lane Keeping Aid and Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Monitoring System (BLIS) with cross-traffic alert, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and Semi-Automatic Parallel Park Assist (SAPPA).
Its off-road abilities are legendary
If you're the kind of family who likes weekends away in far-off and hard-to-reach places, the Everest is the right choice. 4x4 Models are equipped with Ford’s Terrain Management System with Normal, Rock Crawl, Mud and Sand modes to suit whatever road you find yourself on.
The Everest has 225 mm of ground clearance and a wading depth of 800m.
Verdict
As far as family SUVs go, the Everest is an excellent choice. For those who are concerned about the longevity of their Everest, Ford has recently increased their warranty. Every Everest is sold with a 4-year/ 120 000 km warranty and a 6-year 90 000 km service plan.
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Source: Ford South Africa. Check out the Everest microsite on the Ford website here.
