It is hard to be impressed in this line of work. That is not my jaded side talking. Test driving the latest models gives me a handle on current vehicle technology, and once you have tried a piece of equipment, it is almost the same for all of them. The real trick is getting all the components to work together seamlessly and harmoniously to deliver a worthwhile user experience. That is what the Everest Titanium+ 4x4 gave me over the last seven days.
The exterior did not change much — one could even mistake it for a shinier 2nd-generation model — despite this being an all-new model. Sure, the surface is less curvy than its predecessor — especially the façade. It has a flatter nose and new C-shaped matrix auto on/off LED headlamps, but the overall dimensions and shape do not veer too far from the previous model.
Other notable and highly appreciated exterior features include LED taillights, rain-sensing wipers, puddle lamps, a panoramic moonroof, and a hands-free power tailgate.
As loaded as the Everest Titanium+ 4x4 is on the outside, it does not have the kind of visual impact (most) all-new models have. The oomph is missing from its looks. Do not get me wrong, it does not look bad. But Ford seems to have forgotten to incorporate qualities like sexy and bold when they penned its design. If you have this model on your shortlist, do not worry because it makes up for it is so many more ways.
Ford was one of the first automakers to use smart keys, and like other brands, have the key on you (pocket or bag), and it unlocks when you reach for the front door handles.
For a mid-size SUV with so much state-of-the-art equipment, it has a reasonably-sized center tunnel that gives front passengers plenty of elbow room. If you are wondering what gadget I am talking about, check out its 12-inch colored portrait touchscreen with SYNC 4A, Bluetooth audio streaming, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also has a wireless charger and a device holder beside it. Dual USB ports are available in the first and second rows.
The touchscreen is sweet and is probably one of the best (and largest) in the segment. The display is vivid, highly responsive, configurable, and has an intuitive menu system. But therein also lies the problem. I had to dig through a few layers to turn off auto-hold and disable CarPlay. Connectivity issues are not essential and can be a few clicks away. But something like auto-hold should have a physical button so it is easy and, most importantly, quick to disengage.
I love the design of the leather multi-function steering wheel, including the thickness and placement of the audio controls — volume is on the left, and back/forward buttons are on the right. The automatic dual-zone air-conditioning system has physical knobs, which is good, and the wide air vents were able to cool me without giving my fingers frostbite.
It has power-adjustable leather seats with lumbar support, but I was disappointed there was no ventilation. The fit is not as snug as other SUVs I have ridden, so additional bolstering, perhaps on the next update. But I like the extra compartment above the glovebox that can accommodate loose items and even extra devices, the colorful 12-inch instrument cluster, and the audio from the eight-speaker system.
But the reason to spend P2.525 million for this top-of-the-line Everest is the engine and safety features. It has a 2.0-liter Bi-Turbo diesel engine sending 210 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque to its part-time 4WD layout via a ten-speed automatic transmission. It is smooth from start to finish and can take you easily past the speed limit if you are not careful. The best part is I did not even feel it because noise/vibration/harshness levels are near zero. It would be highly unjust to simply describe the ride as comfortable, quiet, and powerful.
Then there is the comprehensive Advanced Driver Assist Technology (ADAT). No other mass-market mid-size SUV blends it so seamlessly into the drive. It was not the case a few years back when the alerts were startling and may actually cause an accident or two. Its latest iteration in the latest Everest Titanium+ 4x4, the ADAT feels more like a concerned friend that taps you gently if you change lanes without signaling.
If you have the cash to spare, the attributes of this model make it a value-for-money purchase. That is why my two neighbors have the same model, down to the color. My only concern is the vehicle’s over-reliance on the touchscreen by handing it control of many vehicle functions. How durable is it, and what happens if it breaks down? How do you switch the systems on or off?
Ford says the touchscreen, like any other component, underwent a battery of tests, including real-world simulations, to remove weaknesses and improve.
The 2023 Ford Everest Titanium+ 4x4 is a pricey SUV but not any more than competitors in the segment, and it will not even be a stretch to say that it offers a better and safer driving experience than its rivals.