The Ford Everest has long been competing with the Toyota Fortuner and the Isuzu MU-X but the latest generation has moved the goal posts to such an extent that even the Toyota Prado can't match it..... its seriously knocking on the German Executive SUV segment, its that good.
I had initial doubts with having the Everest front so similar to the Ranger but in Platinum trim, the chrome accents around the grille, fog light surrounds and Platinum lettering on the bonnet front makes the Everest stand out. In the Equinox Bronze (R1330 extra), most onlookers said the Everest looks like US-only, large SUVs like the Escalade. Ford might not think of that as a complement but in terms of street cred, that's a major plus. The C-Clamp LED Daytime lights are a signature for the latest Fords and you notice them from afar (just as you do in the bakkie Ranger). The Everest comes with Full LED headlight but not the Raptor Metrix LED technology, which is weird considering the status of the Platinum.
The 21 inch alloys look the part and add to that "Escalade" look. On road the tyres give a very quiet and comfortable drive however due to them being more on road biased, off the beaten track they easily limit off road ability (traction) but then who would take a R1m plus SUV for serious off road. The panoramic sun roof gives an airy feel to the interior whilst the rear privacy glass adds a premium look. The rear is ok but compared to the front, one would have expected a bit more "dynamic" design. All models come standard with a tow bar which for someone who doesn't tow at all, might be an unnecessary parking hindrance (360 degree parking helps though).
Inside, the Everest has certainly grown more premium with LED ambient lighting that gives it a very Executive feel when driving at night. The front seats are electrically operated with the drivers getting memory function.
Front seats are heated and cooled with the middle row heated.
The large infotainment touchscreen dominates the centre console and once you get used to how it works (selecting menus and functions) it proved more user-friendly than at first drive. The B&O sound system is a revelation in this segment with great bass and clarity. Wireless mobile charging is useful in this day and age of mobile tech. The unique door handle works a charm and makes getting back to other normal cars seem like a very noticeable step back. Some of the dash trimmings could be better for this segment.
The e-shifter and the driving mode selector are well placed for the driver and make easy selection even when on the move
The Platinum Everest gets the standard 7 seat arrangement with the last row electronically operated for ease. I definitely felt the new Everest has been designed to appeal to a wider audience not just the masculine one judging by its interior layout and tech included. The large digital instrument cluster takes a bit of time to get used to but once done, it's ok. I do feel the Amarok set-up should have been copied by Ford for the Platinum as that is more intuitive.
On road as mentioned earlier, the Everest rides very well with very good imperfect road absorption keeping occupants well insulated from the "corrupt" roads. Handling is not the Everest forte and can be found wanting when one pushes it hard. Understeer sets in early to warn you to curb the enthusiasm but then again, its a class above the Fortuner and MUX in this regard.
The V6 3.0 Turbodiesel engine is credited with 184kW/600Nm mated to the excellent 10-speed auto transmission that drives all wheels (2WD and 4WD - 4Auto, 4H & 4L modes). There are also modes for every driving condition (Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud & Ruts, and Sand) but I would have loved a Sport mode just to sharpen the transmission. Speaking of which, the gear mounted manual changes just don't work.....oh why oh why does Ford not install steering wheel mounted paddles (Raptor has them so...). We averaged 9.7l/100km which is higher than the claimed 8.5l/100km but impressive nonetheless for a 3.0 V6 Turbodiesel motor.
In terms of back up support, Ford offers the Platinum with Ford Protect comprising a four-year/120 000km warranty, four-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance and five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty. The recommended service interval is 15 000km or annually, whichever occurs first. Customers have the option of purchasing service or maintenance plans up to eight years or 135 000km. The warranty can be extended up to seven years or 200 000km, while the Roadside Assistance can be extended for an additional one or two years.
R1.169 630 incl VAT might seem high but the long in tooth Fortuner 2.8GD 4x4 Auto in top spec costs R953 400 (R216k less) but can't match the Ford for power, tech, drive, functionality. The next Fortuner has a clear target for class leader cause even the Prado will struggle to keep the Everest at bay.
Overall the Platinum Everest is a class above its previous competitors and it's so good that at the quoted price, you get a lot of Premium SUV. Its not perfect but its damn good.