TWO years ago, during the Ford SUV Regional Drive held inside Clark in Pampanga, I asked Martin Gunsberg, Ford Asia-Pacific product communications manager, if there was an agreement between Ford and GM about the launch dates of their respective sport-utility vehicle’s in midsize segment. As I noticed that it took Ford a year to launch the Everest after introducing the Ranger in comparison with GM, which launched the Chevrolet Colorado and Trailblazer almost simultaneously.
This elicited a hearty laugh from Gunsberg, who said that there was no such thing and went on to say that they really took their sweet time in developing the Everest, which was largely based on their rugged pickup Ranger. “To make sure that it will have a personality on its own,” he finished.
Indeed, the Everest was worth the wait as it became the yardstick for other SUVs competing in the lucrative midsize segment, with its rugged truck look that mirrors Ford’s “Built Tough” image, choice of powerful diesel engines, class-leading ground clearance, spacious and flexible interior and a long list of features not found in the competition.
The implementation of the TRAIN law early this year posted a major challenge to Ford and other manufacturers as well, as it targeted the midsize SUV segment that makes up the bulk of vehicles sold in the country. The price increased made the top-of-the-line Titanium variant somewhat out-of-reach for some planning to get an Everest.
But buyers shouldn’t fret though, as this scribe had found out that the 4×2 Trend variant, which is equipped with 2.2-liter Duratorq Diesel engine and six-speed automatic transmission, make a fine alternative for those eyeing to get the Everest during its stay with me.
Exterior-wise, there is very little to differentiate it from its more expensive Titanium brothers both available in 2.2 and 3.2 engines. The truck styling remains fresh three years after its introduction. The raise hood, the chrome grille that prominently displays the famous blue oval logo, halogen projector headlamps and the foglamps below the bumper all meld nicely to form a unique truck design upfront that cannot be mistaken for anything but a Ford, even if you cover the logo.
The same goes for the rear, which features a rounded styling, the C-shaped taillights use LEDs, same as those in the Titanium variant (the entry-level Ambiente still uses bulb), the chrome tailgate trim with the words Everest written on it gives an impression that it’s a one-piece design as it also melds nicely with the taillights too. Keen-eyed observers will notice that the rear bumper with built-in reverse sensor is quite similar with the one up front. The spoiler with the central high mounted stop lamps complements the overall look.
The 18-inch alloys, which use a slightly thicker 265/60 all-season tires, have the same design as those 20-inch alloys found on the higher Titanium variant. The modern-looking alloys look at home at the pavement but seem out of place off-roads.
Inside, the Trend comes pretty loaded with a lot of features again found on the more-expensive Titanium variant. That includes Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control with separate controls for the rear vents; rain-sensing wipers, which is one of my favorites; automatic headlights; cruise control; semi-digital instrument panel with multi-info display and a trip computer; an eight-way power adjustable driver seat; power folding side-mirrors, which I wish my SUV has; and an eight-way adjustable driver seat.
The SYNC 3 infotainment system connected easily with my Windows smartphone although is was specifically designed for Apple and Android phones. The thick leather-wrapped steering wheel houses the control for the infotainment system and phone functions as well—making it easy to answer a call or select a song. All the seats are covered with soft leather with contrast stitching that adds a more premium feel.
The only letdown is the hard plastic used throughout the vehicle, although it is of good quality, newer models now uses the softer variety.
The gem of this vehicle is its engine, I like the way the 2.2-liter Duratorq Turbo Diesel with Common Rail Injection (TDCI) pulls. It reminds me a lot of the one found on our Ford Focus, which coincidentally has the same name. It is rated at 160 hp and 380 N-m of torque and mated to the six-speed automatic transmission that delivers all that power seamlessly. It also has less vibrations and noise when compared to other diesel engines.
Fuel consumption is good if driven sedately averaging 9.5 kilometers per liter in city driving and even better on the highway, as it returns 15 kilometers to a liter average when driven steadily at 110 kph.
The electronic power steering or EPAS, on the other hand, returned a good feedback but it felt a bit light on highway speeds. The suspension soaked up most of the road irregularities and I am glad to report that despite racking up more than 12,000 kilometers, the body still felt solid.
The Trend presents an excellent value for those who want an SUV without breaking the bank. It is priced competitively at P1.718 million.
Image credits: Patrick P Tulfo