Ford Everest Trend: 2019 4x4 of the Year contender

THE Ford Everest is no stranger to the 4X4OTY competition, claiming the title three years ago. It returns, however, with a new powertrain, significantly changed front suspension and added safety tech.

The new powertrain is the same 2.0-litre bi-turbo-diesel arrangement (157kW/500Nm) found in both the Ranger XLT and Ranger Raptor, again mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission.

7

The seven-seat family wagon differs from the Ranger as it comes with a dual-range full-time 4x4 system, which apportions 40 per cent of the drive to the front wheels and 60 per cent to the rear on high-traction surfaces (though that can change as conditions dictate), and coil springs in lieu of leaf springs for the rear live axle.

The burly wagon gets a self-locking centre diff, and the Terrain Management system changes the drive dynamics and includes Normal, Rock, Snow/Mud/Grass and Sand modes.

The Everest Trend’s cabin is spacious and well kitted-out, and the vehicle’s capable of towing up to 3100kg and a maximum payload of 687kg. The Trend on test retails for $61,190 (plus on-road costs).

7

Is the 2.0-litre/10-speed powertrain good enough in the Everest to give the big wagon its second title?