Ford’s seven-seat Everest SUV was highly regarded at launch but the large SUV’s range was rather limited – last month saw the arrival of two-wheel- drive and five–seat versions of the entry Ambiente model – the Everest range now kicking off at a more affordable 47,990.

Importantly, the Ford Everest Ambiente has been expanded from one entry model to four different grades including two and all-wheel- drive and five or seven seat capacity. The good news is this Thai-built SUV now kicks off $7,000 lower while all-wheel drive models get a price shave – the Ambiente dropping by $1,000, while Trend and top-grade Titanium models drop by 2,000. The good news is an 8-inch colour touch screen with full colour reversing camera is now standard on all models as is Apple Car Play and Android auto. Just one powertrain, a 3.2-litre five-cylinder turbo-diesel and six-speed automatic and it has a very smooth and progressive power delivery that gives the Ford Everest a lot of class – a very nice driver. The new two-wheel- drive Ford Everest is lighter and feels more nimble – and this is where the model changes make this large SUV more versatile for around town motoring – with the same ride height as the 4WD the 2WD can still tackle a rough track if needed. A good tow vehicle with 3,000 kg braked capacity, and standard with Trailer Sway Control for safer towing. Importantly, the Everest platform is based on Ford’s Ranger ute which represents nearly 50 per cent of Ford Australia sales. I’m David Berthon

Download this podcast here