The original Ford Everest line-up of two increased to six with the addition of four new derivatives in 2023. One of these is the Everest Wildtrak which slots in just below the range topping Everest Platinum. It has the same engine and permanent four-wheel drive the Platinum does.
An upmarket feel is created in the Wildtrak variant and also has more differentiation from its nearest competitor. These additions do take the Everest Wildtrak pricing to over a million.
The drive
The ride and handling of the Everest Wildtrak is extremely impressive, particularly for its size. You are not aware of its significant size (despite Ford calling it a midsize SUV). It is easy to forget its size because the impressive. You may find yourself glancing over at another driver in a bakkie and be surprised that you are at a similar height.
It handles corners with ease, responds energetically and feels like there is always more power available in the Everest Wildtrak. In fact, to avoid costly consequences do not forget to keep an eye on the speed as it creeps up without easily noticing. Overall, you can expect an agile and effortless drive.
As mentioned, the engine specifications of the Everest Wildtrak are the same as those in the Platinum. It features a 3L, V6 turbopetrol engine. This has a power output of 184 kW and 600 Nm of torque.
It is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that sends power and torque to the permanent 4-wheel drive – another feature specific to the Wildtrak. This system automatically distributes the power between the front and rear axles.
The claimed fuel consumption is 8.5L/100km. Yet, during our travels on a variety of roads and traffic conditions we never managed to get the consumption below double digits.
The design
Exterior
The new derivative is intended to be sportier, more rugged and athletic. It incorporates a Wildtrak-specific bold front grille with horizontal bars and mesh, all of which is painted in signature ‘Bolder Grey.’
This colour features on the front bumper design and is unique to this model. It contrasts the ‘Super Alloy’ silver finish of the front. This brings attention to the additional underbody protection fitted as standard.
The newest addition features ‘WILDTRAK’ raised lettering on the leading edge of the bonnet, finished in a dark grey accent which is also applied to the mirror caps, rear bumper and the WILDTRAK and 4×4 scripts on the rear tailgate.
C-clamp headlights and LED daytime running lights reinforce the strong and muscular design theme. Added visual appeal is provided by the bright-finish side steps, stand-off roof rails and privacy glass.
An additional paint colour, Luxe Yellow, is exclusively available on the Everest Wildtrak. Machine-faced, two-tone 20-inch alloy wheels are standard. All-terrain tyres are optional for regular off-roaders.
Stepping inside
My two-year-old niece often travels in the test vehicles and I assumed because that is all she has ever known she never noticed the different cars. When we put her into her carseat in the Everest Wildtrack she looked around and said ‘this one is nice.’ Thus, it has a toddler’s approval.
It has my approval too. The interior very successfully creates a sense of luxury and driver-focused comfort. The modern design is created with the new-gen’s coast-to-coast dashboard. Ford also makes use of good-quality, soft touch materials on the dash. The dark colouring of the roof lining and full-size sunroof add to the aesthetic.
Another addition to this luxurious aesthetic is touches that also give it a sporty feel. This is created with yellow stitching on the dashboard, steering wheel, gear lever, door trims and on the leather seats.
The third row of the seven-seater is suitable for children or shorter occupants – essentially what you would expect from the extra row. The boot capacity is effective whether this row is up or not, of course, depending on how much space you need. A useful feature is the ability to lower one section of the third row if you need extra space and still need the third row as well.
Technology
The Everest Wildtrak has a built-in 400W/240v inverter. For many other countries that sell the SUV, this would be a nice-to-have, especially for those indulging in an outdoor lifestyle. For the South African market this will come in extremely useful when loadshedding returns.
The new derivative is the ultimate vehicle for the active family. True to South African needs it is the ultimate vehicle for towing. One of the driving modes includes an option for this. You can select between Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud and Ruts and Sand. It also has blind spot monitoring with trailer monitoring. The braked towing capacity is 3 500kg.
A 360-degree camera system in the Wildtrak is not only useful to assist with parking but allows drivers access to view areas around their vehicle. This is possible as the infotainment screen has an built-in modem. Using the FordPass app you can view your vehicle remotely.
Other features in the Everest Wildtrak include a 12-inch infotainment screen, 8-way electrically adjustable seat, dual-panel Moon Roof (sunroof), USB-A and C ports in the front and rear, wireless charging pad, climate control, keyless entry/start and an electrically operated tailgate.
Safety
The SUV has a respectable array of driver assistance and safety features:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Stop & Go and Lane Centering
- Cross Traffic Alert
- Evasive Steer Assist
- Lane Keeping System with Road Edge Detection
- Pre-Collision Assist
- Forward Collision Warning
- Reverse Brake Assist
- Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
- Ford’s Active Park Assist 2.0 with full autonomous parallel and perpendicular parking
- 5-Star ANCAP programme
The Everest Wildtrak just makes sense. I still question calling a spacious 7-seater a mid-sized SUV but as vehicles get larger and larger this may soon be true. It lacks nothing that a family vehicle needs. A great driving experience, comfort and luxury and various other for families that enjoy weekend adventures often. The Wildtrak is the perfect option for drivers who want the benefits of a bakkie but the versatility of an SUV.
Good to know
The specs
Engine: 3L, turbocharged petrol
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
Fuel consumption: 8.5L/100km
Power: 184 kW
Torque: 600 Nm
Price: starting from R1 084 000
Warranty and service plan: standard four-year/120 000km warranty, four-year/unlimited distance Roadside Assistance and five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty.
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