The Wildtrak nameplate was made popular by the Ranger models, garnering much love in Mzansi. Ford has now put the nameplate on the new Everest, promising a more off road lifestyle over the luxury spec Platinum, we tested it.
The front gets a unique front design over the Platinum with an X style design on the lower bumper where the Platinum has more horizontal lines in its design. Interestingly the Wildtrak front is unique in the Everest range as other models follow the design of the Platinum. The C-clamp LED headlights with C-line LED daytime lights are same as other Everest and Ranger models. The Wildtrak name on the bonnet front is unique.
Where the Platinum and Sport models get colour coded wheel arch surrounds, the Wildtrak has black accents that hints to its off road intentions as these are more scratch resistant. Stylish black and silver 20inch wheels come standard but for those that seek more off road performance, Ford offers 18" Alloy wheels with All Terrain Tires as a no cost option. Side steps, roof rails and privacy rear glass come standard. The Wildtrak comes standard with a detachable tow-bar. If installed, it tends to scrape the ground quite easily but if left installed, it would come handy in traffic rear end accidents. The Wildtrak V6 has a 3,500kg Maximum Towing Capacity.
The Wildtrak features the same high-end full colour 12-inch touchscreen with Navigation as seen on other high spec Everest models. First seen on the Ranger models, the infotainment still gets positive notes from passengers new to the latest generation of Fords. Ambient lighting is a welcome feature however the "basic" digital instrument cluster shared with lesser spec models is a let down. I am not sure how much of a saving this means compared to the premium spec cluster found on the Platinum. Wireless mobile phone charging is a welcome feature in today's smartphone world and it makes everyday life easy. Even though the Wildtrak doesn't feature the premium sound system as found in the Platinum spec, it still has very good sound quality.
Wildtrak naming on the seats is a neat touch with the drivers seat getting electric adjustment but with no memory function. The 7 seater has good space for the first 2 rows on long trips with easy access to the 3rd row seat (could be better if the 2nd row folded forward) but space on the 3rd row is minimal at best. Dual zone climate control has vents neatly placed around the cabin for passenger comfort irrespective of outside weather.
The Wildtrak Everest comes standard with a large panoramic sunroof that aids a spaciousness feeling from passengers.
Powering the single spec Wildtrak Everest is the new 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). Power is available at all revs with no lag when overtaking. During the weeks test, we averaged 11l/100km which even though high is good for a V6 Turbo engine. On the road comfort is very good with little wind noise around the mirrors but overall its a long distance cruiser SUV of note.
Priced at R1,180,200, the Everest Wildtrak is only R60,000 cheaper than the R1,240,600 Platinum Everest. That makes the selection rather interesting but against its natural rivals from Toyota Fortuner and Isuzu MU-X, the Wildtrak wipes the floor.