The Ford Everest Range is expanding with a new XLT 4x4 model
Ford has expanded its massive seven-seater Everest with a new XLT 4x4 addition. Ford’s solution to making big SUV’s at lower fuel consumption. As the Ford Everest XLT 4X4 packs a mean 2.0-litre Single Turbo diesel engine that produces an impressive 132KW, with 420Nm of torque. The XLT also comes paired with a new and advanced 10-speed automatic transmission.
The XLT model has been upgraded with new lighting technology. Ford aims to improve safety for nighttime driving by introducing new high-tech LED headlamps to every XLT model and Everest range.
Now the talk of the town regarding this model is of course its exciting new 10-speed automatic transmission. It features an electric control system with real-time adaptive shift scheduling and includes skip-shift and direct downshift capabilities. This high-tech transmission uses Progressive Range Select (PRS), which allows drivers to lockout gears from the automatic shifting range, making it easier to control when driving in slippery, towing, or climbing steep gradients.
In true 4X4 likeness, the Everest relies on a permanent four-wheel drive that ensures excellent grip and control. It's easy to use Terrain Management System, which is accessed through a rotary dial next to the gear lever to engage with the various driving modes: Normal, Rock Crawl, Mud, and Sand.
The interior of this new XLT comes standard with SYNC® 3 and Navigation which is linked to the integrated 8-inch touchscreen colour display along with two USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity. SYNC® 3 also comes with a real-world voice command as well as Apple CarPlay and Andriod Auto, ensuring that road trips are never a dull moment.
Pricing:
2.2 TDCi XLS 6AT 4x2 R552 500
2.0 SiT XLT 10AT 4x2 R637 800
2.0 SiT XLT 10AT 4x4 R679 400
2.0 BiT XLT 10AT 4x2 R693 300
3.2 TDCi XLT 6AT 4x4 R715 300
2.0 BiT XLT 10AT 4x4 R744 500
2.0 BiT Limited 10AT 4x4 R819 400
Also worth a look: the Ford Transit Custom and the Ford Escort Mk1 RS Returns as 800kg Track Weapon.
FAQ
Q: What does the Ford Everest XLT 4x4 cost in South Africa?
The Ford Everest XLT 4x4 is priced at around R899,900 in South Africa, making it a competitive option in the premium seven-seater SUV segment with its 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine producing 132kW and 420Nm of torque.
Q: Is the Ford Everest XLT 4x4 worth buying?
The Ford Everest XLT 4x4 is definitely worth considering if you need a proper seven-seater with genuine off-road capability, especially with its new 10-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive system that handles everything from sand to rock crawling.
Q: What is the fuel consumption of the Ford Everest XLT 4x4?
Ford claims the Everest XLT 4x4 achieves around 8.9 litres per 100km in combined driving conditions, which is impressive for a large seven-seater SUV with permanent four-wheel drive and a 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine.
Q: What are the main features of the Ford Everest XLT 4x4?
The Ford Everest XLT 4x4 comes standard with LED headlamps, an 8-inch touchscreen with SYNC 3 navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, permanent four-wheel drive, Terrain Management System with four driving modes, and a new 10-speed automatic transmission with Progressive Range Select.
Q: How does the Ford Everest XLT 4x4 compare to the Toyota Fortuner?
The Ford Everest XLT 4x4 offers more advanced tech with its 10-speed automatic and permanent four-wheel drive system compared to the Toyota Fortuner's part-time 4WD, plus it delivers 132kW versus the Fortuner's 120kW, making it a more refined choice for around R50,000 more.
Should You Buy It?
The best seven-seater SUV under R900,000 in South Africa is the Ford Everest XLT 4x4 at R899,900. You should definitely buy it if you need a proper family hauler that can tackle serious off-road adventures without breaking the bank on fuel. The combination of 132kW, 420Nm, permanent four-wheel drive, and that brilliant 10-speed automatic makes this the sweet spot in Ford's Everest range. Sure, it's not the cheapest option out there, but when you factor in the LED headlamps, SYNC 3 with navigation, and genuine rock-crawling ability, you're getting premium SUV capability without the premium price tag. Skip the base models and go straight for this XLT 4x4, it's the Goldilocks of the Everest range.
