Ford Everest Wildtrak arrives for Christmas

FORD has introduced a special edition Wildtrak version of the Everest SUV complementing the three variant Wildtrak one-tonne ute range on which it is based.

The ‘adventure’ focused Wildtrak is one step down from the range topping Platinum model but is close in features and spec, with a slightly more overt theme including an available striking metallic Luxe Yellow duco.

It hits the large SUV market priced from $74,704 plus on-road costs representing a price jump of around $1600 since the model was first confirmed way back in May this year.

Unlike the Ranger Wildtrak ute, the Everest is only available with a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 whereas the Ranger Wildtrak can be had with 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel four or 3.0-litre turbo diesel V6 with the more off-road capable Wildtrak X fitted with the 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel.

It doesn’t look like an X version of the Everest Wildtrak is in the pipeline at the moment, but anything is possible…

The model doesn’t have any direct competitors based on price or engine spec as the Isuzu MU-X, Toyota Fortuner and Prado and the Pajero Sport are all four-cylinder models with less power and torque. Nothing from Land Rover comes close on price and much of the “competition” is what could be accurately described as soft roaders.

The Everest’s 3.0-litre V6 turbo-diesel is rated at 184kW and 600Nm potentially positioning it as a “poor mans” Toyota LandCruiser 300 Series.

When compared on the inside with the top of the range Everest Platinum, Wildtrak misses out on little the seven-seater boasting Ebony leather upholstery with contrasting Cyber Orange stitching, a 10-way powered adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, eight-way power adjustable passenger seat, front seat heating and ventilation, a panoramic roof, 360-degree camera technology, exterior zone lighting and ambient LED lighting.

There are also three 12-volt power outlets, two USB outlets, wireless phone charging and dual-zone climate control with third-row vents and a handsfree powered tailgate.

On the outside, the Everest Wildtrak is differentiated by a specific front grille and bumper design, the bonnet, doors, and rear tailgate are all adorned with bold Wildtrak badging. The bumper’s H-bar, grille surround, wheel lip mouldings, fender vents and mirror caps are all finished in Bolder Grey, while chrome stand-off roof rails adorn the top of the Wildtrak.

Infotainment features include an embedded modem, FordPass Connect II, 8.0-inch colour digital instrument cluster with configurable display, 12.0-inch colour multi-function touch screen display (portrait style), 10-speaker audio system, Bluetooth with phone/audio streaming, built-In satellite navigation with one year of connected navigation services included, SYNC4A with voice-activated controls and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Safety kit is extensive in terms of active and passive technology as well as ADAS to secure a five-star ANCAP rating.

Wheel and tyre packages include 20-inch Asphalt Matt Black machined-face alloy wheels with all-season tyres, while an 18-inch Bolder Grey alloy wheel and all-terrain tyre combination is available as a no-cost option. Both wheel offerings are provided with a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System as standard.

Under the chunky two-box body, the Wildtrak runs a selectable 4WD system that includes 2WD and automatic all-wheel drive as well as 4WD low and high range.

Built on a ladder chassis like the Ranger, the Everest has coil spring rear suspension on a rigid differential with locking function. Braked towing capacity remains at a healthy 3500kg when optioned with the factory Tow Pack.

All external lights are LEDs with the headlights providing automatic illumination and high beam. Rain sensing wipers further enhance the driving experience.

“The 2022 Everest sets new standards for performance, comfort and versatility in the seven-seat, large SUV segment,” said Ford Australia chief platform engineer for Ranger and Everest, David Grice.

“With the addition of Everest Wildtrak, Australian families can now choose an SUV without compromise when it comes to combining work and play.”

Ford Australia president and CEO Andrew Birkic said the special edition model is likely to prove as popular as its Ranger ute counterpart.