Should you buy a used Ford Everest Wildtrak?
The Ford Everest is a sensible 7-seater that builds on the successful recipe that is the Ranger. As capable off-road as it is on it, the Everest Wildtrak dials things up to 11 and gives you the same style and features that you would ordinarily find in the Ranger Wildtrak.
It may be less than a year old, but that hasn't stopped the Ford Everest Wildtrak from appearing on the used car floor. If you're hungry for a new set of wheels and not keen to wait in line, or you simply just want to save a few Rands, then a used example of this model may be just the ticket for you. Being rather new, the Everest Wildtrak is still a rather safe buy and will be covered by the balance of the manufacturer's warranty, giving you peace of mind. Just because the first owner has offloaded it, doesn't mean that there's anything wrong with it. On the contrary.
Related: Is the Ford Everest Wildtrak expensive to repair?
It's worth noting that the service plan on the Everest Wildtrak is an optional extra, and you will have to ensure that the used or demo version you're interested in has that option checked. Customers are able to purchase either service or maintenance plans for the Everest Wildtrak for up to 8 years and 165 000 km with an extension possible of up to 200 000 km. It will be best to check what the first owner chose before you choose to buy, or else you may find yourself spending more than you bargained for.
Key features of the Ford Everest Wildtrak
If you're looking for a 7-seater off-road capable SUV with a meaty engine, then the Ford Everest Wildtrak is for you. It's powered by a 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine and is only challenged by the Everest Platinum (which offers a drive more geared towards on-road luxury). It produces 184 kW and a stout 600 Nm torque, allowing it to tow 750 kg unbraked and 3.5 tons braked. It sends the power to all four wheels through an intelligent 4WD system that includes an Auto mode for ease of use. The 10-speed gearbox may seem excessive, but the tight spacing of the gears means that it can keep you in the RPM sweet spot or drop the revs entirely to ensure that you don't burn unnecessary fuel.
Ford claims that the Everest Wildtrak will return a combined cycle fuel consumption of 8.5 l/100km. This, in theory, should yield around 894 km from the 76-litre fuel tank.
When shopping for a used Ford Everest Wildtrak, bear in mind that 18-wheels were an optional extra, intended for those who planned on using their Wildtraks off-road. If you're also so inclined, then the 18-inch option will be a good call for you too.
