2019 Ford Everest – 2.0 biturbo diesel, 10-speed auto

Ford has unveiled an updated version of its Everest body-on-frame SUV in Australia, bringing with it a mildly revised look and extra kit. The big news, however, is the introduction of the new 2.0 litre twin-turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine, first seen on the Ranger Raptor.

The new EcoBlue mill, part of the new Panther engine family that replaces the old Puma line, serves up 213 PS and 500 Nm of torque from just 1,750 Nm. It’s paired to a Getrag 10R80 10-speed automatic transmission with a wider ratio span that improves refinement (on top of the continued use of active noise cancellation) and performance, both on and off the road. Towing capacity has also increased slightly, from 3,000 to 3,100 kg.

Standard on the range-topping Titanium variant and optional on the mid-spec Trend, this engine and transmission combination results in a combined fuel consumption figure of as low as 6.9 litres per 100 km on the Trend 4×2. The old 3.2 litre TDCi Duratorq five-pot turbodiesel remains a standard fitment on the base Ambiente and Trend, mated to a six-speed auto; other markets will likely get a 2.2 litre four-pot option as well.

Elsewhere, the Everest gains blink-and-you’ll-miss-them upgrades for the exterior, including a new three-slat grille and a revised skid plate design. Previously available only on the Titanium variant, xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights are now standard on the Trend as well, while the Titanium receives new 20-inch split-spoke alloy wheels with a two-tone machined finish.

On the inside, soft-touch materials on contact points improve the feeling of comfort and quality, while a new ebony colour scheme enables interior brightwork and contrast stitching to stand out even more. Keyless entry and push-button start have been introduced as a standard feature across the range, while Trend and Titanium models gain a hands-free powered tailgate.

Also fitted as standard across the range is the SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity as well as a navigation system with a “breadcrumbs” feature for unmarked off-road routes. Rear parking sensors and a reverse camera remain standard features, while Active Park Assist is available as an option, as before.

In terms of safety, Trend and Titanium variants now with Inter-Urban Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) system with Pedestrian and Vehicle Detection, operating at speeds above 3.6 km/h. These models were previously available with Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keeping System (LKS) and Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with rear cross-traffic alert, so expect these features to soldier on.

Lastly, all Everest models come with revised suspension geometry, improving ride and handling both on and off the road. Additionally, the Everest receives up to seven years of free navigation map upgrades in Australia, as well as a five-year, unlimited-mileage warranty for all models purchased after May 1.

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