AFTER the successful launch of the latest generations of Ranger and Everest, Ford Philippines took select members of the motoring media on an experiential test drive to Clark Freeport Zone.
We took top variants of these models to the smooth stretches of the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), all the way to roads less traveled in San Marcelino, Zambales.
“The next-generation Ford Drive Experience was designed for participants to get up-close and personal with the next-gen Ford Everest and make them truly appreciate its features. With its bold and rugged look, spacious and comfortable interiors, and purposeful technology, the next-gen Everest is truly meant for families who are looking for a safe and reliable SUV for their adventures,” said Ford Philippines managing director Mike Breen.
In and out design overhaul, platform mods
What comes with the latest generation models, of course, is Ford’s new global truck design DNA. Prominent upfront is the model’s signature C-clamp headlight and new grille unified by a horizontal bar. Even the bonnet received new treatment along with the shoulder lines and wider wheel arcs. Moreover, the numerous changes at the rear with new sets of LED taillights. Interestingly, the all-new Ranger now has rear box steps for easier rear bed access, which also has clamp pockets and other provisions to accommodate better loading. Platform-wise, Ford extended it to 50mm longer and the tire track to 50mm wider.
Inside, more changes were made, like the dashboard and console layouts, entirely a departure from the predecessors. Ford did a great job utilizing different materials and finishes and created that polished ambiance for the Everest and the rugged sportiness of the Ranger. Of course, the highlight inside is the best-in-class 12-inch touchscreen complementing the digital instrument panel. This tablet-like infotainment unit has Ford’s latest SYNC® 4A with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity. Then other amenities are helpful in today’s daily driving, such as the new climate system, wireless charger, clever storage bins, and door pockets, among others.
Steadfast drivability
The top variants commissioned for the drive boast a powerful 2.0L Bi-Turbo mated with a 10-speed automatic transmission. With 207 hp and 500 N-m of maximum torque at its disposal, speed increments are swift and unrelenting, no question about that, even in Eco mode. But what elevates the highway drive for these models is its T6 platform’s known ability to provide stable and planted highway speed drives. That 50mm wider tire track made it even better and more reassuring.
The stretches of NLEX and SCTEX enabled us to test Ford’s suite of smart driver-assist technologies on both the Ranger and Everest. Throughout, the Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go and Lane Centering became beneficial. The system was smart enough to control the speed depending on the leading vehicle’s speed and distance. Yes, the system is even programable to select the safe following distance. Moreover, the Lane Keeping System with Road Edge Detection, Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Aid & Lane Departure Warning, among others, demonstrated real-time alerts. At some point, even ahead with our timely reaction. Noteworthy is how the system’s semi-autonomous function operates the steering with enough movement to alert the driver.
Parking made easy
Upon arriving at the hotel, Everest’s New Active Park Assist 2.0 was up for the task. With an orchestrated tight parallel spot, the vehicle scans the space and alerts once done. Then, with a button press, the system impressively steered itself into the area and settled. We like how the button acted as the main switch for the driver to still have complete control of the system. Then, it was time for the New Reverse Brake Assist. No matter how difficult it was not to react, this intelligent feature autonomously applied the brakes upon detecting the object behind. Interestingly, the vehicle also demonstrated its ability to automatically move the shift lever back to Park when the driver forgets to while unbuckling the seat belt and exiting.
Off-roading supremacy
The following day, the convoy traveled to a remote, lahar-stricken area in Zambales. It was that time again to subject both the Ranger and the Everest to several off-roading courses and rough paths. After vehicles were enabled on 4H with Mud/Rut drive settings, we initially took the rugged pickup through a downward slope followed by a series of deep puddles. With Hill Descent Control engaged, we went off while the vehicle automatically applied enough brakes to control the momentum. Afterward, we galloped through the deep puddles effortlessly, thanks to the vehicle’s high ground clearance.
Next was a long series of soft sand paths and shallow riverbeds where we alternately tested the Ranger and the Everest. During the drive, even with traction control engaged, and despite losing momentum at times, the vehicle still managed to sliced through soft spots. All we did was operate the throttle, steered, and counter-steered correctly while the drivetrain remarkably took complete control.
Then came the shallow riverbeds. With safety markers to follow, we launched and drove thru water splashes with rocky paths. Not even a sign of momentum was lost. Both the Ranger and the Everest effortlessly sliced through. When we arrived at the tight dirt paths necessitating a slow crawl, we engaged the 4L setting and let the system take over while we steered correctly. We found the bigger infotainment screen better in engaging the 360-degree view during the entire session. We also liked how Ford integrated some off-road functions for ease of operation.
Then came the Camp Ford set up in Lake Mapanuepe, where we settled and did more exercises. There, the Ranger demonstrated its rear bed’s versatility to work with a handyman, while the Everest showcased its ability to provide versatile and voluminous cargo space.
We left the camp, went through the same paths, and did the same exercise again as if it was a norm for the all-new Ranger and all-new Everest. While we have tested the previous generation models to more extreme off-road scenarios, this year’s version still proved the Ranger’s and Everest’s off-roading supremacy and, as drive-it-anywhere vehicles, straight out from the showroom.
Image credits: Randy S. Peregrino