New 2023 Ford Everest is bigger and more comfortable

Ford has taken the wraps off its all-new 2023 Ford Everest which promises to be more comfortable than its predecessor.

Key to its comfort is a longer wheelbase, while a 50mm (1.9-inch) wider track than the outgoing model is said to make the Everest better to drive around town and on the freeway.

However, the Everest hasn’t forgotten its Ranger-based roots, either, with all variants equipped with underbody protection, a rear locking differential, selectable off-road drive modes, and two functional tow hooks at the front.

Its off-road credentials are also bolstered with 800mm (31.4-inch) of wading depth along with an array of features designed to make towing easier than ever before, including a dedicated Tow/Haul drive mode to optimise gear shift timing to maintain ideal power delivery and engine braking and a camera that helps guide the SUV in reverse parking when hitched to a trailer. There’s also an optional Tow Pack that brings an integrated trailer brake controller and offers 3,500kg (7,716 lbs) of towing capacity.

Power- and drivetrain

When it launches, the Everest will be offered with two engine options – a 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel four-cylinder and a 3.0-litre turbo-diesel V6 – both connected to a 10-speed automatic transmission. However, Ford is keeping the power output until closer to launch.

Entry-level Ambiente and Trend variants will feature rear-wheel drive while all other variants will have a permanent four-wheel drive system that utilises an electronically controlled on-demand two-speed electromechanical transfer case.

All-new interior and technology

Inside, the latest Everest’s interior will be a big step up from the outgoing model, with a large portrait style infotainment screen taking centre stage on the fresh new dashboard. It measures 10.1-inches in the Ambiente model and 12.0-inches in the Trend, Sport and Platinum models.

As expected, all variants now comes with a digital instruments cluster measuring 8.0-inches in the Ambiete, Trend and Sport, and 12.-4-inch in the range-topping Platinum. Both screens run Ford’s latest SYNC 4A system.

Other highlights include wireless phone charging, heated and ventilated front seats (Sport and Platinum). Platinum buyers will further luxuriate in 10-way power adjustable driver’s seat with memory function, heated second-row seats, a heated steering wheel and a 50:50 split third row that fold with a touch of a button.

Safety

The 2023 Everest comes with nine airbags, including a centre airbag between the driver and front passenger, adaptive cruise control with lane centering, Stop & Go and evasive steering assist, reverse brake assist, pre-collision assist with intersection function, and a blind-spot information system with trailer coverage.

Full pricing and specifications will be announced closer to its launch later this year.