“It slots between the existing XLT 4×2 with the same 2.0 Single Turbo engine and the 157kW 2.0 Bi-Turbo derivatives”.

Ford South Africa is expanding its Everest range with the addition of a new XLT 4×4 model that carries a R679 400 price tag.

The new model comes fitted with a 2.0-litre single turbo engine with 132 kW of power and 420 Nm of torque plus a 10-speed automatic transmission.

It slots between the existing XLT 4×2 with the same 2.0 Single Turbo engine and the 157kW 2.0 Bi-Turbo derivatives.

The high-tech transmission incorporates Progressive Range Select (PRS), which gives the driver the ability to lock out gears from the automatic shifting range. This provides greater control when driving in slippery conditions, when towing or climbing steep gradients.

In 4×4 guise, the Everest relies on a permanent four-wheel drive system that ensures optimal grip and control in all conditions.

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In terms of safety, the XLT comes fitted with standard Passive Entry and Passive Start with keyless unlocking and push-button starting. Front and rear parking sensors are provided, linked to an integrated rearview camera.

It also boasts ESC system with Traction Control, Trailer Sway Control, Hill Start Assist, Hill Descent Control on the 4×4 models, Load Adaptive control and Roll Over Mitigation.

Inside, it comes with a SYNC®3 with Navigation as standard on the XLT and Limited models, linked to the integrated eight-inch touch-screen colour display, along with two USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity.

The system incorporates a fully-featured embedded navigation, convenient multi-touch gestures (such as swipe, slide, scroll and pinch-to-zoom), plus voice recognition that uses simple, real-world voice commands. SYNC®3 also offers the benefits of smartphone integration provided through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

On the other hand, Ford has upgraded the Everest’s lighting technology with the introduction of high-tech LED headlamps as standard on all XLT models as well as the Limited model.

“We have also enhanced the lighting specification of all Everest XLT and Limited models, which now feature LED headlamps as standard along with LED daytime running lights and automatic headlamp levelling,” she says. “This further improves safety when driving at night due to the exceptional lighting performance and accuracy of the latest LED technology. Daytime visibility is also improved with the inclusion of the distinctive LED daytime running lights.”

Model Range and Recommended Retail Prices:

  • 2.2 TDCi XLS 6AT 4×2 R552 500
  • 2.0 SiT XLT 10AT 4×2 R637 800
  • 2.0 SiT XLT 10AT 4×4 R679 400
  • 2.0 BiT XLT 10AT 4×2 R693 300
  • 3.2 TDCi XLT 6AT 4×4 R715 300
  • 2.0 BiT XLT 10AT 4×4 R744 500
  • 2.0 BiT Limited 10AT 4×4 R819 400

All 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.