VEHICLE
DIESEL, DRAMA, AND THE DRIVE
After refuelling, I hit the road again towards Riversdale. This stretch is where the Everest truly shone. The adaptive cruise control made long-distance driving almost meditative, smoothly adjusting the speed to match traffic.
The Bi-Turbo diesel engine was a revelation. There’ s something addictive about that steady surge of torque, especially when overtaking trucks or climbing hills. Press the pedal and the Everest responds instantly, as if it’ s saying,“ I’ ve got you.”
Fuel consumption is about 7.1L / 100km – impressive for a seven-seater of this size. I reached Knysna with only one refuel, and that’ s with a full load.
INTO THE WILD
By the time I reached Goukamma Nature Reserve, the trip had become a full-blown adventure. The gravel roads didn’ t bother the Everest. Its terrain management system allows you to switch between drive modes – Normal, Eco, Tow / Haul, Slippery, Mud / Ruts, and Sand. I tested“ Mud / Ruts” for scientific reasons, of course, and the grip was superb.
You know that moment halfway along a dirt track when you start regretting every life choice? That never happened. The Everest’ s suspension absorbed every bump effortlessly. It was smooth, steady, and solid. Parking near the river, I swapped the steering wheel for a kayak paddle, but my heart remained with the Everest. It had proven itself the perfect companion for a journey: tough enough for the wild, yet refined enough for comfort.
SEDGEFIELD AND SLOW LIVING
Next, I arrived in Sedgefield, South Africa’ s official“ Slow Town”. The Everest looked slightly out of place among the small cafés and cottages. Parked under a milkwood tree, I enjoyed a laidback breakfast. A few locals stopped to admire the car. One said,“ This one looks like it means business.” He wasn’ t wrong.
The XLT trim is all about balance – premium cloth seats, chrome accents, keyless entry, and a reversing camera more accurate than your dating app algorithm. That commanding driving position is perfect for spotting dolphins or asserting dominance on the N2.
KNYSNA: THE FINAL FLIRT
Rolling into Knysna, with its shimmering lagoon and salty air, felt like a grand finale. The Everest glided along coastal roads with grace, navigating every bend smoothly. Later, parked near Thesen Island, I watched the sunset reflect off the Everest’ s metallic paintwork. There’ s something undeniably striking about a car that can handle mud, highways, and city lights – all without breaking a sweat.
A CRUSH WORTH HAVING
The Ford Everest XLT isn’ t just a car. It’ s an experience. A perfect blend of power and elegance, capable of conquering off-road trails while offering comfort. It’ s the type of SUV that makes you take the long way home. IB
SPECS AT A GLANCE
• Engine: 2.0L Bi- Turbo Diesel
• Power: 154 kW
• Torque: 500 Nm
• Transmission: 10-speed automatic
• Drive: Rear-wheel or optional 4WD
• Fuel Consumption: ± 7.1L / 100km
• Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 kg
• Seating: 7
DECEMBER 2025 / INBOUND SA 73