The Ford Everest has built its name as the perfect family haulier that can take any beating hence Ford South Africa is always trying, by all means, to keep it fresh in this demanding segment.
With that said, Ford recently introduced the Sport derivative to the Everest range but do not be fooled by the ‘Sport’ insignia, the performance remains the same as the XLT model it is based on.
It is available in 4×2 and 4×4 guises with an electronic locking rear differential as standard.
We headed to George in the Western Cape to sample the new offering.
What is sporty about it?
As mentioned, the enhancements only apply to the exterior and interior of the Everest Sport and take our word, they add pizzazz to the SUV model.
It is fitted with a black mesh grille and unique Everest badge on the bonnet, black mirror caps and door handles. The black door handles replace the chrome ones on the XLT.
The front bumper has been given the black treatment as well as the 20-inch alloy wheels.
There are ‘Sport’ decals on the rear doors that compliment the overall look of the Everest Sport.
There are six body colours to choose from; Diffused Silver, Frozen White, Agate Black, Moondust Silver, Sea Grey and Copper Red. Offered as standard are LED headlights as well as daytime running lights and cruise control. Other standard features include front and rear park sensors with a rear-view camera.
The interior is bolstered with model-specific leather sears with a clean line of blue stitching. The dash gets a soft leather touch while the driver’s seat has an eight-way power adjustment.
There is the brand’s SYNC®3 infotainment system that we have found easy to use. The 8-inch system offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.
How does it drive?
Well, pretty much the same as the XLT we sampled a little while ago. Our launch drive included a jaunt through some off-road terrains, mountain passes as well as on tar.
The Everest Sport is one SUV within its segment that is comfortable to drive, yes, body roll is there but not so much – something that competitors in this segment often struggle to get right.
The 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine with 132 kW and 420 Nm with its 10-speed automatic transmission deliver adequate shove when needed to do so.
The 10-speed auto also has proven to be frugal in other models we have tested yet it has a tendency of jerking under slow-moving traffic.
What safety systems are there?
Safety comes courtesy of ESP with traction control, ABS, Trailer Sway Control, Hill Launch Assist, Roll Over Mitigation and a total of seven airbags.
Last word
On the plus side, the Everest Sport is an exceptional SUV that promises to build on the normal Everests’ success. If you are looking for a stylish offering that can accommodate seven passengers and still tow a caravan, this is worth looking at.
- 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.
