2023 Ford Everest Wildtrak makes global debut in New Zealand
Think Wildtrak, and more than likely you'll think of the Ford Ranger with its rugged exterior, go-anywhere styling, and top-of-the-line features. Its SUV-twin, the Everest, also comes with rugged capabilities but the Blue Oval has not given it a 'Wildtrak' version...until now.
Say hello to the 2023 Ford Everest Wildtrak and New Zealand is the first market to get its hands on it. Sitting below the top-of-the-line Premium variant, the new Wildtrak version of the Everest combines ruggedness, high-tech amenities, and plenty of features.
Just like its pickup counterpart, the Everest Wildtrak is now available in the distinct Luxe Yellow paint finish that is complemented by neat touches of Bolder Gray accents throughout the exterior. It also comes with a Wildtrak-specific front grille and front bumper, side steps featuring steel inserts, alloy-style roof rails, and new 20-inch alloy wheels that also come with the Bolder Gray detailing. To remind everyone that this is indeed a Wildtrak, Ford put the variant's logo on the front doors, tailgate, and hood.
Inside the Everest Wildtrak, ebony leather and Miko suede seats give the cabin a more upscale look and feel. It is then complemented by Cyber Orange contrast stitching that makes the interior pop out more. The front seats benefit from eight-way power adjustability, complete with heating and cooling functions.
On the technology front, it gets an 8-inch digital instrument cluster along with a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system that's powered by the latest SYNC 4 software. It gets Android Auto/Apple CarPlay capability, Bluetooth, USB, navigation, a wireless charging pad, as well as a 10-speaker sound system.
Under the hood, the Everest Wildtrak for New Zealand is only available with one engine; a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V6 that's mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission and full-time AWD. The six-cylinder diesel produces a healthy 250 PS along with an impressive 600 Nm of torque.
The new model will be arriving at New Zealand dealerships this July 2023. While there's no word yet if it will be available outside 'The Land of The Long White Cloud', we won't be surprised if it will also make its way to Australia in the near future. Hopefully, Ford Philippines can also bring the new Everest Wildtrak here to the country.