Ford South Africa has been quite specific with the derivative spread for both the Everest and the Ranger, trying to position certain vehicles into specific user slots and to equip each of those with just the right levels of luxury and tech for the intended user.
The Ford Everest Sport is just one of those and the example that arrived for review came with the optional 255/65 R18 on and offroad wheels and tyres (in place of 255/50 R20) and, from moment I began driving, I realised this vehicle was built to handle both the adventurous trails and the everyday city commute.
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Its off-road capabilities are impressive, allowing it to tackle rugged terrains with ease. Yet, when transitioning to city streets, the ride remains smooth and composed. This dual nature makes it a versatile option for those who enjoy weekend escapades but also need a reliable vehicle for their daily routine. The vehicle's design and features cater to an active lifestyle, providing comfort and reliability regardless of the environment.
Higher profile tyres are a feature worth noting for those who prioritise comfort in their driving experience and, unlike low-profile tyres, which often sacrifice ride comfort for aesthetic appeal and performance, higher profile tyres offer a more cushioned experience on the road. They are designed to absorb shocks and vibrations more effectively, making for a smoother journey, particularly on uneven or rough surfaces – the same experience and comments made when I reviewed the Ranger Tremor..
When driving through city streets riddled with potholes or navigating rural roads with unpredictable terrain, these tyres come into their own. They reduce the impact felt inside the vehicle, enhancing overall ride comfort. This is especially beneficial for longer drives, where road fatigue can become an issue.
Additionally, higher profile tyres provide better traction and stability, contributing to safer handling in various driving conditions.
Another advantage is the reduced risk of rim damage. The increased tyre sidewall height offers an extra layer of protection against kerbs and road debris, which can be a significant advantage in both urban and off-road settings.
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Whilst the allure of the top-tier Ford Platinum version is undeniable, this vehicle demonstrates that you do not need to stretch your budget to enjoy a satisfying driving experience.
The core attributes, including its dependable off-road prowess and city-friendly comfort, are retained. The Platinum version may boast a few additional features, such as advanced driver-assistance systems or more luxurious interior finishes, but these extras do not fundamentally alter the driving dynamics or the vehicle's overall utility.
This model delivers a robust performance that meets the demands of various driving conditions, from rough trails to smooth highways. The differences in trim levels become apparent mostly in the finer details and added conveniences, which, whilst pleasant, are not essential for a fulfilling motoring experience. The standard features provided already ensure a high level of functionality and satisfaction.
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Taken in the role of being a daily commuter and a weekend adventurer, the the 154 kW/500 Nm 2,0-litre Bi-Turbo diesel engine in combination with the 10-speed automatic transmission provides more than enough power and torque to competently handle the requirements of both worlds.
Possibly the only scenario that may cause it to falter slightly against the 3,0-litre V6 engine derivatives would be when towing a caravan or boat, even though it does have the same 3 500 kilogram braked towing capacity as the Platinum.
Claimed fuel consumption puts in 1,0 l/100 km better than the Platinum at 7,5 l/100 km for a tank range in excess of 1 000 km. In reality – and excluding any low range rock crawling – the overall average on the review cycle came in at 9,3 l/100 km on a mix of urban, freeway and dirt roads with some sections navigated in 4H.
In standard trim the Everest Sport is priced at R1 079 500 and, on the price ladder, compares to the likes of the Jeep Wrangler 3.6 Rubicon (R1 086 900) and Toyota Land Cruiser 76 2.8GD-6 station wagon VX (R1 091 400)
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For those who prioritise value over extravagance, this vehicle offers an excellent alternative. It maintains the essential qualities that make it a versatile choice for both daily commutes and adventurous outings. The higher price tag of the Platinum version may appeal to those seeking the utmost in luxury and technology, but for practical purposes, this model covers all the necessary bases effectively.
It comes with anti-lock braking, traction control, hill start assist, electronic rear diff lock, hill descent control and six crash bags as standard safety features. Automatic climate control with four-zone rear climate controls, electric power steering, multi-function steering wheel, cruise control, lane-keeping system, auto dimming headlights and eight speakers are all standard.
The large central ‘tablet’ screen is fairly ease to navigate with sound volume a centrally positioned rotary knob. It supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as well as the proprietary FordPass functionality.
In real terms it is quite difficult to identify what absolutely necessary piece of tech is missing from the list compared its more luxurious siblings – probably something a savvy 10-year-old would point out immediately!
In terms of storage, the boot space goes from 259 litres with all seats in place to 1 823 litres when they are folded flat.
After evaluating the vehicle in various driving scenarios, its strengths lie in its versatility and comfort, particularly when considering the higher profile tyres that significantly enhance ride quality. The vehicle's ability to transition smoothly between rugged terrains and city streets makes it a solid option for those with an active lifestyle.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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