When it comes to rugged capability and family practicality, few vehicles strike a balance as well as the Ford Everest. Based on the same platform as the Ranger ute, the Everest has evolved into a refined, feature-packed SUV that can tackle Australia’s toughest terrains — from dusty outback trails to coastal highways.
In this in-depth Ford Everest review, we’ll explore what makes it a standout among 4WD SUVs in Australia, diving into its performance, design, interior comfort, technology, towing capacity, and overall value.
The Ford Everest at a Glance
The Ford Everest lineup offers a wide range of trims to suit different buyers — from the entry-level Ambiente to the range-topping Platinum. Each variant offers something distinct for drivers seeking adventure, family comfort, or both.
Key Highlights:
- Engine Options: 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel or 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drivetrain: 4x2 or 4x4
- Seating Capacity: 7 seats
- Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 kg (braked)
- Fuel Efficiency: 7.1–8.5L/100 km (combined cycle)
- Warranty: 5 years / unlimited km
The Everest competes directly with other popular 4WD SUVs like the Toyota Prado, Isuzu MU-X, and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, but Ford’s combination of tech, comfort, and ruggedness gives it an edge.
Exterior Design: Bold and Commanding
The latest Ford Everest makes a powerful first impression. It inherits Ford’s global truck DNA, with a bold grille, C-clamp LED headlamps, and wide stance that conveys confidence on and off the road.
Design Details:
- Front Fascia: A more upright grille and squared-off headlights emphasize the SUV’s toughness.
- Wheel Options: From 17-inch alloys on the lower trims to stylish 21-inch wheels on the Platinum, the Everest looks equally capable and premium.
- Lighting: Full LED setup with adaptive high-beam assist, giving better visibility during night drives.
- Functional Design: Integrated roof rails, large mirrors, and high ground clearance ensure both practicality and aesthetics.
For those who love accessorising, Ford’s official accessories catalogue offers bull bars, snorkels, roof racks, and towing kits to further enhance its off-road personality.
Interior and Comfort: A Premium 7-Seater Experience
Step inside, and you’ll immediately notice the leap in interior quality. Ford has clearly worked to ensure the Everest feels just as comfortable on a long highway trip as it does crawling over rocks.
Cabin Comfort:
- Seating: Plush leather upholstery (in higher trims) with power-adjustable front seats and ventilated options in the Platinum.
- Dashboard: Dominated by a large touchscreen, soft-touch materials, and smart storage areas.
- Space: Generous room across all three rows, making it one of the few true 7-seaters that can comfortably seat adults in the back.
- Noise Insulation: Enhanced cabin quietness due to improved acoustic glass and insulation materials.
The Everest’s interior rivals even some luxury SUVs, blending practicality with a touch of sophistication — perfect for Aussie families who love to travel.
Technology and Infotainment
Ford’s SYNC 4A infotainment system takes centre stage in the Everest, providing cutting-edge connectivity and convenience.
Key Features:
- Touchscreen: Massive 12-inch portrait display (on most variants) with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- Digital Instrument Cluster: 8-inch or 12.4-inch configurable display depending on trim.
- Connectivity: Over-the-air software updates, wireless charging, and multiple USB-C ports.
- Audio System: Premium Bang & Olufsen 10-speaker setup in higher models.
- Driver Convenience: Keyless entry, push-button start, and a powered tailgate.
Tech-savvy drivers will appreciate the system’s responsiveness, intuitive layout, and integration with FordPass — allowing remote start, lock/unlock, and vehicle status monitoring from your phone.
Engine and Performance: Built for Power
The Everest offers two diesel powertrains — each tuned for specific driving needs.
Engine Options:
- 2.0L Bi-Turbo Diesel: Produces 154kW and 500Nm of torque — smooth and efficient, ideal for everyday driving.
- 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel: The powerhouse of the range, pushing out 184kW and 600Nm, offering effortless acceleration and towing strength.
Both engines are paired with Ford’s 10-speed automatic transmission, ensuring a balanced combination of power and efficiency.
On-Road Performance:
On highways, the Everest feels refined and composed. The suspension absorbs bumps effectively, while the steering provides confidence at higher speeds. Ford’s advanced chassis tuning makes it one of the best-handling 4WD SUVs in its class.
Off-Road Capability: Ready for Anything
This is where the Ford Everest truly shines. Its off-road credentials are backed by real engineering rather than marketing fluff.
Off-Road Features:
- Full-Time 4WD System with selectable drive modes (Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, Sand).
- Terrain Management System automatically adjusts throttle response, traction, and transmission mapping.
- Locking Rear Differential provides extra grip on uneven surfaces.
- Wading Depth: Up to 800mm — perfect for river crossings.
- Ground Clearance: 226mm — among the highest in its segment.
Whether you’re exploring the Blue Mountains, navigating the Kimberley, or tackling Fraser Island’s sandy stretches, the Everest’s confidence-inspiring setup ensures nothing feels out of reach.
Towing and Payload
For many Australian buyers, towing ability is crucial — and the Ford Everest delivers with flying colours.
- Braked Towing Capacity: 3,500 kg (V6)
- Payload: Around 650–700 kg depending on variant
- Trailer Sway Control: Built-in stability management system keeps everything steady.
- Tow Mode: Adjusts gearbox mapping and throttle response for smoother hauling.
This makes the Everest a superb choice for towing caravans, boats, or trailers, making it ideal for family getaways or tradies who need a versatile vehicle.
Ride and Handling: Balancing Comfort with Control
Despite its size and off-road focus, the Everest is surprisingly comfortable in city driving. The steering feels light at low speeds, visibility is excellent, and the turning radius is smaller than you’d expect for a large SUV.
On rough country roads, the suspension tuning shines — absorbing corrugations and potholes with ease. The optional adaptive damping on the Platinum variant further refines the ride, automatically adjusting firmness based on terrain and load.
Safety: Top-Class Protection
Safety is one of the Ford Everest’s strongest suits, with the SUV earning a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Standard Safety Features:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go function
- Blind Spot Monitoring & Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
- Lane Keeping Assist & Lane Departure Warning
- 360-Degree Camera and front/rear parking sensors
- Driver Attention Alert
Families will appreciate the combination of passive and active safety systems, making the Everest a dependable daily driver as well as an off-road companion.
Fuel Efficiency
Given its size and power, the Everest manages to maintain respectable fuel economy figures:
- 2.0L Bi-Turbo: Around 7.1–7.5L/100km
- 3.0L V6 Diesel: Around 8.5L/100km
Real-world consumption will depend on load and terrain, but Ford’s efficient diesel tuning ensures it doesn’t guzzle fuel unnecessarily.
Pricing and Variants in Australia
As of 2025, here’s a quick look at pricing (approximate drive-away):
- Ambiente (4x2): From $55,000
- Trend (4x4): From $65,000
- Sport (4x4): From $72,000
- Wildtrak (4x4): From $75,000
- Platinum (4x4): From $82,000+
Each variant justifies its price point, offering incremental upgrades in comfort, capability, and technology.
Maintenance and Ownership
Ford’s capped-price servicing program offers predictable ownership costs.
- Service Interval: 12 months / 15,000 km
- Average Service Cost: Around $350–$450 per visit
- Warranty: 5 years, unlimited km
Ford also provides roadside assistance and optional service plans, making the Everest a worry-free investment for long-term owners.
Verdict: Should You Buy the Ford Everest?
If you’re after a rugged 4WD SUV that’s equally at home in the city and the outback, the Ford Everest deserves serious consideration. It combines off-road prowess, premium comfort, advanced tech, and strong towing capability in one well-rounded package.
Pros:
- Powerful and refined diesel engines
- Excellent off-road performance
- Premium, spacious interior
- Strong towing capacity
- Comprehensive safety features
Cons:
- Slightly higher price in top trims
- Fuel economy drops under heavy load
- Large footprint for city parking
Final Thoughts
The Ford Everest is no longer just a ute-based SUV — it’s evolved into one of the most complete family 4WDs in Australia. Whether you’re planning long-distance touring, weekend camping, or simply want a commanding presence on the road, the Everest ticks every major box.
For those seeking a reliable 4WD SUV that can genuinely go anywhere, the Ford Everest stands tall among its rivals.
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *
