We recently had the chance to experience Ford’s recently launched Everest Sport in the city, the suburbs and on some gravel pathways. Needless to say, we’ve had ample opportunity to see what it’s all about. Before I dive into our top three takeaways from our time with the Ford Everest Sport, let’s get some of the details out of the way.
What is the Everest Sport?
The Everest Sport is the latest edition to the Ford Everest line-up and it is based on the Everest XLT model. This new addition comes with its own set of features and enhancements that, according to Ford, “introduces a new level of style” to the range.
In this iteration, the Everest comes with the Everest badge on the bonnet, black mirror caps and door handles, a black treatment on the front bumper, ebony roof rails, special Sport decals and unique 20-inch black alloys. Inside, occupants will find that the Everest Sport has its own model-specific embossed leather seats, among other key features.
Under the bonnet lies a 2.0-litre Single Turbo diesel engine, delivering 132kW and 420Nm. This is mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Customers are able to choose from 4×4 and 4×2 models.
Ok, now that that’s out of the way, let’s get into our three takeaways from the Ford Everest Sport.
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It can hold its own among its competitors
When one looks at this segment of the market, many people automatically head towards the Toyota Fortuner. And we understand why – it’s an impressive vehicle that has managed to capture the hearts of SUV-loving South Africans. But seriously, let’s not just write off the Everest in this category. In fact, it’s actually quite the popular vehicle among SUV lovers. It’s been a strong contender for many years and has a lot to offer potential owners. It is capable both on the road and off the beaten track. Granted, the controls and infotainment system feel somewhat dated when stacked side-by-side with its rivals, but if you are shopping in this category, definitely don’t be too quick to pass this one by.
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It does well at the coast AND at higher altitudes
There’s always a fear that some of your favourite vehicles won’t be much of a favourite once you drive it anywhere beyond the coast. The higher the altitude, the less power you’ll have on hand. At least that’s what we’ve come to expect. But we found that the Everest performed adequately in JHB, even after experiencing it at its best in Cape Town a few weeks prior. It served me well covering the asphalt between Johannesburg and Pretoria, plus there’s an added degree of peace of mind with a large SUV when it comes to travelling around with expensive camera gear.
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It’s still an impressive family SUV
Everyone thinks their vehicle is a great family vehicle. With five seats, a big enough boot, etc. But not everyone has three kids who are all as tall or as broad as their dad. Fitting all five of us into a five-seater is fine, but space is almost always cramped. With seven seats, a wide range of standard safety features, a comfortable cabin even when driving on gravel, Ford’s SYNC®3 infotainment system that has a variety of connectivity and multimedia options including Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, it really made the family trips a breeze. And the packing space was welcomed when we needed to pack for camp recently. Anyone who knows camping will know the amount of packing0 involved!
With this Everest Sport, Ford has done well to keep the Everest relevant in a category that is quickly being outdone by its smaller compact SUV siblings.
Recommended pricing (February 2022)
2.0 Single Turbo 10AT 4×2 R662 800
2.0 Single Turbo 10AT 4×4 R704 400
All Everest models come standard with Ford Protect, comprising a four-year/120 000km comprehensive warranty, three-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and five-year/unlimited km corrosion warranty. A six-year/90 000km service plan is included, with 15 000km service intervals.