MANY OF US ARE starting to think of Ford as the “Mustang, Ranger, Everest Company” as they continue to focus on these big-selling models, apparently to the exclusion of some other commendable models in their range.
It continues with Ford Australia confirming that the newest addition to its award-winning Everest SUV family is the new Wildtrak special edition. Revealed earlier this year, the Everest Wildtrak is designed with those wanting to conquer everyday front of mind – building on the variant’s 14-year history with the Ranger ute.
The Everest Wildtrak enters the Australian line-up as the top adventure trim, with exclusive exterior and interior detailing and a recommended price of $73,090 (plus on road costs). The Everest Wildtrak has a ‘best of both worlds’ mentality with finishes perfect for the customer that wants an SUV that blends go-anywhere ability with eye-catching design.
“The 2022 Everest set new standards for performance, comfort and versatility in the seven-seat, large SUV segment,” said David Grice, chief platform engineer for Ranger and Everest. “With the addition of Everest Wildtrak, Australian families can now choose an SUV without compromise when it comes to combining work and play.”
Available in limited numbers, the Everest Wildtrak is offered exclusively with the muscular 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel engine, full-time 4WD, and 10-speed automatic transmission. With 184kW and 600Nm on offer, the Everest Wildtrak retains an impressive maximum braked towing capacity of 3500kg (braked) when fitted with the optional factory Tow Pack, which includes an integrated trailer brake controller.
The Ranger Wildtrak variant was first introduced in 2009, blending tough-truck credentials with family-friendly comforts. Influenced by that vehicle’s design language, the Everest Wildtrak boasts a range of design and styling enhancements that help broaden Everest’s appeal. Along with unique front grille and bumper design, the bonnet, doors and rear tailgate are all adorned with bold Wildtrak badging. Like its ute sibling, the Everest Wildtrak is now available in Luxe Yellow – a first in the nameplates’ history.
“Australians understand what the Wildtrak badge means – which is why it is one of our most popular Ranger variants – and we’re thrilled to add it to the Everest family for the first time,” added Andrew Birkic, President and CEO, Ford Australia and New Zealand. “Everest Wildtrak will give customers a vehicle that helps them go wherever their adventurous spirit takes them, and puts a smile on their face while doing it.”
Ford Everest Wildtrak owners will have a pair of wheel and tyre packages to choose from. As standard the seven-seat SUV is fitted with 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. For peace of mind, both offerings are provided with a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System as standard. Similarly, the bumper 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.
Unique styling additions for the Everest Wildtrak also extend to the inside of the luxurious and tech-filled cabin, headlined by ebony leather with striking Cyber Orange stitching. The driver of the Everest Wildtrak is treated to a 10-way powered adjustable seat with memory function, while the front passenger has eight-way adjustability. Both front seats benefit from heated and ventilated functionality. A panoramic roof is standard, along with 360-degree camera, exterior zone lighting, and ambient interior lighting.
Final specification will be announced closer to launch.