After Thailand, Ford is testing the 2018 Ford
Everest (2018 Ford Endeavour) in the USA now. The Drive has released spy shots
of a test mule that was spotted near the company’s research and engineering
facilities in Dearborn, Michigan.
The T6 platform-based Ford Ranger and next-gen Ford
Bronco are confirmed for the USA, but not the Ford Everest. Mike Levine, Ford
North America Product Communications, said: “Ford is a global automotive
company and Dearborn is one of our Global Product Development centers, where we
occasionally review and test global products.”
The 2018 Ford Everest features subtle visual
updates. At the front, it has a new radiator grille and silver frame for the
lower air intake. On the sides, there are shiny new six-double-spoke alloy
wheels. The interior should remain mostly unchanged. Ford will introduce
passive keyless entry and engine start-stop button for more convenience and
engine auto stop-start technology for reduced fuel consumption with the
mid-cycle refresh.
The current Ford Everest is available with two
diesel engines: 2.2L TDCi (160 PS/385 Nm) and 3.2L TDCi (200 PS/470 Nm). Ford
will offer the facelifted model with the new 2.0L TDCi diesel engine that
produces 180 PS and 420 Nm of torque and the new 2.0L TDCi Bi-Turbo diesel
engine that develops 213 PS and 500 Nm of torque as well. The 2.2L TDCi engine
will deliver 150 PS (-10 PS) and 375 Nm (-10 Nm) of torque in the new model,
while the 3.2L TDCi engine’s maximum power and maximum torque will remain
unchanged. Transmission choices will include a new 10-speed automatic unit. The
2.0L TDCi Bi-Turbo engine will likely pair with this transmission.
The 2018 Ford Everest will go on sale in Thailand
first, towards the middle of the year, followed by global sales.
