Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa (Manufacturing) (Pty) Limited (“Ford South Africa”) will be launching a revised line-up for its Everest sport utility vehicle (SUV) range in the first half of 2026. Offering new engine choices, the introduction of a new Active series in place of the previous XLT, and various specification and feature enhancements, the seven-seater Ford Everest is set to become a more compelling choice than ever for adventurous families.

“The current Ford Everest, which was launched in 2022, has established a revered reputation for unrivalled comfort, space, versatility, safety, connectivity, performance and all-terrain capability in its segment. With the updates we will be introducing next year, the Everest gains further traction in each one of these areas,” says Sunil Sewmohan, Director: Product Marketing, Ford South Africa.

“Going forward, the current XLT models will be making way for the new Active series as the entry into the line-up. This will bring all the much-loved virtues of the Everest within reach of a broader spectrum of buyers,” Sewmohan says.

The Everest Active will be powered by Ford’s upgraded 2.0-litre single-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine, which is equipped with a timing chain for improved durability. This engine is renowned for its fuel efficiency, and produces 125kW of power and a torque peak of 405Nm. Customers will have the option of two-wheel drive and part-time four-wheel drive versions, both of which are mated to a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission.

Significant powertrain upgrades are being applied to the Everest Sport, which stands out from the pack with its spirited demeanour. The 4x2 model will be equipped with Ford’s energetic 2.3L EcoBoost four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that develops 222kW and 452Nm. It is joined by the 4x4 version, which switches to the torque-rich 3.0L V6 turbodiesel unit (184kW/600Nm) in combination with permanent four-wheel drive – a specification that was previously only available on the higher-specification derivatives.

The Wildtrak remains the more adventurous off-road-oriented model, while the Everest Platinum continues to demonstrate premium luxury and refinement. Both of these models retain the 3.0L V6 Diesel engine and permanent 4x4.

Along with the introduction of the Everest Active and engine changes on the Sport models, the entire range will benefit from tailored specification upgrades that will make this spacious family-oriented adventure vehicle even better suited to modern families and active lifestyles – whether tackling the daily urban sprawl, or relying on the Everest’s sure-footed capabilities to venture off to more remote locations and adventurous activities.

More detailed information on the model range, specifications and features will be released closer to launch in the first half of next year.

2026 Ford Everest model range:

• 2.0L Diesel Active 10AT 4x2
• 2.0L Diesel Active 10AT 4x4
• 2.3L EcoBoost Sport 10AT 4x2
• 3.0L V6 Diesel Sport 10AT 4x4
• 3.0L V6 Diesel Wildtrak 10AT 4x4
• 3.0L V6 Diesel Platinum 10AT 4x4