The new seven-seater Ford Everest is set to arrive in the Australian market in 2015, billed by Ford as one of the “most technologically advanced off-road SUVs ever made”.Ford’s latest model Everest is designed for both everyday commuting and off-road conditions, with Ford stating a combination of strength and smart features offer consumers “a tough and versatile SUV”.
The Everest is decked out with a range of “intuitive and practical” technologies, from in-car entertainment and connectivity to driving control.
SYNC 2, Ford’s latest in-car connectivity system, lets drivers use natural voice commands to control the car’s entertainment system, climate controls and connected mobile devices, while also featuring an 8-inch touchscreen with colour-coded corners designed for easy menu navigation.
By way of example, Ford states users can tell SYNC “I’m hungry”, and the system will provide a list of nearby restaurants.
“With these simplified commands, SYNC 2 lets drivers keep their focus where it needs to be – on the road,” commented Trevor Worthington, Ford Asia Pacific vice president, product development.
“The entire experience is more intuitive than ever, allowing drivers to smoothly move between using voice control, the touchscreen, and controls on the steering wheel and instrument panel to personalise their driving experience.”
The touchscreen’s four corners provide passengers display information to control the audio system, paired phones, navigation (if equipped) and the car’s climate settings, while a personal touch can be added to the touchscreen’s wallpaper by uploading photos via USB or SD card.
The Everest is available with a 10-speaker sound system, featuring an integrated subwoofer for “powerful and accurate sound reproduction”, with music playable via radio, CD, USB or Bluetooth.
Meanwhile, a number of safety technologies are designed for driving in a range of conditions.
Curve Control is designed to help drivers maintain control when approaching turns too quickly, while Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Aid help prevent drivers from unintentionally drifting out of a lane.
The Everest’s Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert informs drivers when there is a vehicle in their blind spot while driving or when preparing to reverse out of parking spots.
Other features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Alert with Collision Mitigation, Roll Stability Control and Electronic Stability Program, which works with traction control to help the driver stay in control.
Active Park Assist enables drivers to parallel park hands-free, requiring only accelerating, shifting and braking from the driver.
Featuring a “bold, sculptural design”, Ford states the Everest’s exterior is paired with a “modern interior that makes use of refined materials and emphasises horizontal lines to create a comfortable, harmonious environment for up to seven adult occupants”.
The Everest can be equipped with one of three petrol and diesel engines, mated to six-speed automatic or manual transmissions, which Ford states deliver “uncompromised power and torque with excellent fuel efficiency”.
“This engine line-up demonstrates Ford’s commitment to offering the power of choice to customers in different markets with different needs and preferences,” Worthington commented.
“We’ve selected the engine technologies from Ford’s global powertrain range that deliver the best combination of performance and efficiency to meet and exceed the demanding requirements of SUV customers.”
