Ford Everest XLT: Summiting the mid-size SUV segment

Ford Everest XLT: Summiting the mid-size SUV segment

A rugged but refined SUV with plenty of practicality and authentic off-road ability, the Ford Everest may be a well known quantity in Australia, South Africa and other automotive markets, but has finally made its anticipated Middle East debut in its third generation. Bridging the gap between Ford’s luxuriously family-friendly Explorer and dedicated and iconic Bronco off-road SUVs, the Everest’s abilities are many cuts above now popular car-based crossovers, and made its point in a most impressive fashion during a recent and grueling regional launch event test drive in Oman.

Like the Bronco, the Everest is based on a modified version of the same basic platform as the Ford Ranger mid-size pick-up truck, but with its performance, design, equipment, comfort and capability, it punches above many pick-up truck-based would-be rivals. Heavily related to the Ranger at the front, the Everest utilises tough body-on-chassis construction, but adopts a coil-sprung Watt’s link live axle rear suspension set-up in place of leaf springs, for enhanced comfort and handling dynamics. Its integrated wagon-style body is meanwhile expected to provide for improved refinement and rigidity.