By: Tarek Hawchar
While most of its rivals are getting mid-cycle facelifts, the all-new 2024 Ford Everest is already a next-generation SUV
In busy, mid-size SUV territory where the likes of Toyota Fortner and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport are arguably dominating the scene, no other has had an impact on this market segment like the Ford Everest.
When it first hit the streets back in 2003, the Ford Everest quickly became one of the Blue Oval brand’s top-selling vehicles in places like Thailand, India, Australia, and the Philippines. However, while most of its rivals are getting mid-cycle facelifts, the all-new 2024 Ford Everest is already a next-generation SUV, which gives it the ability to set the tone in this segment for at least a few years until its competitors launch their new generation models.
We had the chance to climb behind the wheel of this irresistible mid-size SUV and discovered what makes the latest generation Everest the perfect SUV for off-road adventures. We put it to a proper test, pushing it in muddy, graveled, and sandy roads on our trip from the Omani desert to Wadi Al Khoud, a beautiful valley located about 20 minutes away from Muscat Governorate in Wilayat Al Seeb.
Though it has a 2.3-liter engine under its fresh sheet metal, the next-gen Everest stepped up to the challenge and tackled every terrain with confidence and finesse. It was really an invigorating and breathtaking ride, and the off-road adventure was as exciting as the destination!
The 2024 Ford Everest has a more muscular look compared to its predecessor, thanks to its large grille and the unique C-Clamp LED headlights
Exterior
Visually, the 2024 Ford Everest has a more rugged and muscular look than its predecessor, thanks to its large grille and unique C-Clamp LED daytime running lights surrounding the adaptive matrix LED headlights. The next-generation Ford Everest also offers a choice of 18-inch or 21-inch alloy wheels, depending on the trim level. Other notable design features include the chrome accents on the grille, underbody shields, attractive LED taillights, and chrome roof rails on the range-topping Limited variant, to name but a few.
Dimensionally speaking, the new Everest is a tad bigger than before. It now measures 4914 mm long, 1923 mm wide, and 1842 mm tall, with a 2900 mm long wheelbase.
The second-row slides with a 60:40 split seatback, while the Limited models have a third row with a power-fold option
Interior
Taking a peep inside the 2024 Ford Everest reveals a much more refined interior than its predecessor. Immediately catching the eye is a large portrait-oriented infotainment screen measuring 10.1 inches on the XLS and XLT variants, and 12 inches on the range-topping Limited grade. Drivers can also find an all-digital instrument cluster that measures 8 inches—all screens are running Ford’s latest SYNC 4 v2 system.
Better yet, the cabin features more soft-touch materials and leatherette surfaces than hard plastic surfaces. Buyers of the flagship Limited variant can also enjoy 8-way power adjustment leather seats for the driver and front passenger. The second-row slides with a 60:40 split seatback, while the Limited models have a third row with a power-fold option. Overall, the third row has enough room for two average-sized adults. If you are an audiophile, opt for the Bang & Olufsen premium sound system with 12 speakers on the Limited models.
Among the key interior features are dual-zone climate control, a wireless charging pad, ambient lighting, a dual-panel sunroof, a 360-degree camera, zone lighting, a glove box cooler, and a hands-free power liftgate.
On the technology front, the Detroit-based automaker has installed an assortment of driver-focused technologies into the next-gen Everest, including adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go function, front and rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, a lane-keeping aid system, hill launch assist, pro-trailer backup assist, a blind-spot information system with trailer coverage, and post-collision brake functionality for automatic emergency braking, as well as six airbags.
When the third row is folded, the trunk of the new Everest can swallow up to 898 liters of luggage. However, if the second row is folded down, there is a generous 1823 liters of cargo space available.
Under the fresh sheet metal, the 2024 Ford Everest features a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 296 hp and 420 Nm of torque
Engine and Performance
Under the fresh sheet metal, the 2024 Ford Everest features a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that delivers 296 hp and 420 Nm of torque. The four-cylinder powertrain is also linked to a ten-speed Selectshift automatic transmission, sending power to a permanent four-wheel drive system.
All next-gen Everest models come equipped with underbody protection, a rear locking differential, off-road drive modes, a low-range gearbox, and front and rear functional tow hooks. When riding on the muddy, graveled, and watery roads of Wadi Al Khoud, the new mid-size SUV was the perfect vehicle for this type of adventure. Thanks to its 800 mm wading depth, 3.1-ton towing capacity, body-on-frame construction, and best-in-class ground clearance, the 2024 Ford Everest showed steadfast agility and grip in the worst and toughest conditions.
Our verdict
One can say that the 2024 Ford Everest has a few advantages over the competition. First of all, it's already a next-generation SUV. Second, it is stylish, comfortable, and capable. Finally, when it comes to interior space, luxury, and on-board technology, the next-gen Everest is one step ahead of the competition.