Latest news with #Wildtrak
IOL News
21-07-2025
- Automotive
- IOL News
Discover the Ford Wildtrak Super Cab: a new era in bakkie performance and comfort
The Ford Wildtrak Super Cab, heading north on the N12 back to Johannesburg. Image: Kevin Ritchie The age-old questions about bakkies have always been: what do you do with only two seats in front, and how do you protect the stuff in the back? The answer for the first was the double cab, which started hitting South African roads in the 1980s, evolving from a cab and a half with facing jump seats behind the driver and passenger until it effectively became a sedan with a 'bak' in terms of quality and space. The second answer was the either/or option of a tarpaulin or a fibre glass canopy, clipped onto the load bay of a single cab, which, with the addition of a foam mattress, could double as a kid's playground or a teenager's fantasy at the Drive-In. This was the general fate for single cabs, which for much of their history seemed relegated to a life of commercial drudgery, with the same lack of respect as those destined to operate them. Breaking preconceptions Ford's Wildtrak Super Cab shatters all these preconceptions. Equipped with a lockable, retractable tonneau cover, the load box is as secure as any boot in any car, while the Super Cab, effectively a 11½ cab, is a revelation of ergonomics, technology and luxury. Accessed through oppositional hinged 'suicide doors', the space behind the two seats is generous in the extreme. There's space for pets or two small children or a rather small adult if absolutely needed. It's a great space for the transport of the kind of personal effects you'd prefer to have closer to you on a long journey, rather than in the load box, such as laptops, cameras and picnic bags. You can put your entire luggage behind your seat, leaving the load box free to carry anything else. The load box is equipped with tie-down points for securing cargo, as well as a three-prong plug point and a cigarette charger outlet to run anything from a fridge for the camper to power tools for a small business. There are also down lights that assist with nighttime access to whatever you have put within the load box. Ford The general build quality of the vehicle is top class, there is no road noise whatsoever in the cabin and the sound system is sublime. Image: Supplied Build quality The general build quality of the vehicle is top class, there is no road noise whatsoever in the cabin, and the sound system is sublime. The attention to the smaller details is understated, though omnipresent, like the courtesy lights that come on beneath the side mirrors to illuminate the ground as you get in or out of the vehicle in the dark. There's just about every mod con you could hope for within the cabin, including a range of driving aids that literally make you stay in your lane with more interactive backseat driving/hectoring than even those that have been married for many years would be used to – including nanny like injunctions to stop for a coffee when the Wildtrak thinks you're tired. The Apple CarPlay is seamless, projecting onto an iPad-sized screen in the middle of the console that effectively becomes an extension of your phone, ensuring there's no awkward relearning of other onboard GPS or music systems. You literally arrive, pair and drive off. For those without either Android or iPhone, the Wildtrak does come with its own independent systems, all of which can be controlled via the oversized screen or directly from the steering wheel. The only thing the steering wheel doesn't control is the aircon; everything else is accessible without having to move your hands too far down (or God forbid, for the onboard nanny, to take one hand off). There's just about every mod con you could hope for within the cabin, including a range of driving aids that literally make you stay in your lane. Image: Supplied Effortless driving This is a big bakkie by any metric, but after a very short while, it feels like an extension of the driver because everything is so intuitive. There are very helpful sensors and cameras fore and aft, with a panoramic one above, which are vital for parking – and especially when carrying a load that obscures the back window. Having said that, the big side mirrors have sensors in them that light up when vehicles come up close behind you and overtake. Despite its size, this vehicle is nimble; the 2-litre bi-turbo engine and the 10-speed automatic gearbox ensure there's plenty of power, but at the same time, the engine is very efficient. 1200kms on the clock, of which 200 were in town and 1000 were down to Kimberley and back, returned figures of 8.5l/ 100kms, but on the open road this dropped to 8l/100kms, making the Wildtrak the same cost to run as that of a much smaller vehicle over the same distance. Versatile The Wildtrak is incredibly versatile. Fully 4x4 with a substantial road clearance, dirt roads are no challenge and the off-road beckons with no trepidation, but it won't look out of place either in the executive parking bays of a blue-chip company. Its very clean lines, unlike some of the aerodynamic-defying lines of some of its competitors, add further allure to a vehicle that refuses to be pigeon-holed. Adept in different settings, versatile without compromising on performance or build quality, the Wildtrak Super Cab is a shape shifter that changes perceptions about what a bakkie can do and, more importantly, should do. The answer is that the best bakkies do everything and do it very well.
The Citizen
11-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
What you need to know before taking your Ford Ranger off-road
If you stick to a few basic rules, you'll stay safe and preserve the environment. It's already month three of our time with the Ford Ranger XLT. And we are racking up the miles all over the place. One thing South Africa offers is some beautiful outdoor escapes and some rugged terrain thrown in for good measure. This country is a paradise for off-road enthusiasts. And the Ranger bakkie is built to go off-road. Proper off-road driving, not dirt road and game reserve stuff, demands not only a capable vehicle like the Ford Ranger. But it also requires that you have some skill, are prepared, and that you respect the nature around you. So, whether you're joining a local 4×4 club for a weekend trail or planning an extended overland expedition, understanding the fundamentals of off-road driving is crucial to ensuring safety, preserving the environment and maximising enjoyment. The Citizen Motoring has compiled an easy list of things you need to know to make the most out of your bakkie. Understanding your Ford Ranger The foundation for off-roading starts with knowing your vehicle's capabilities and limitations. Familiarise yourself with your vehicle's 4×4 drive capabilities (4H, 4L), diff locks, traction control systems, ground clearance, as well as approach and departure angles. The Ford Ranger has an impressive front approach angle of 30 degrees and rear departure angle of 25.6 degrees – the latter is 23 degrees when a towbar is fitted. Certain models, such as Tremor, Wildtrak and Platinum offer an on-demand four-wheel drive system. This system offers 2H, 4A, 4H, and 4L. Modern 4x4s often come equipped with advanced Terrain Management Systems, and for Ford Ranger this comprises Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud/Ruts, Sand and Rock Crawl modes. The Ford Ranger XL, XLT and Wildtrak feature an electronic rear-differential lock. The Ford Ranger Raptor is equipped with a front and rear differential lock for extra traction. Reading the terrain Learning to 'read' the terrain ahead, whether it's assessing how deep a mud patch is or how loose gravel might affect grip, can be the difference between a successful climb and getting stuck. Certain Ford Ranger models are equipped with the off-road SYNC screen with a 360-degree camera system that makes manoeuvring in tight spaces an absolute cinch. Also available on certain Ford Ranger models is the new Trail Turn Assist feature. This system applies the brakes to the inside wheel when negotiating tight bends in off-road conditions below 19km/h. Reducing the vehicle's turning radius by up to 25% to help navigate around obstacles. Throttle control and momentum Gentle, steady throttle control is essential. The golden rule of 4x4ing safely is tackling challenges or obstacles 'as slow as possible, and as fast as necessary'. In many cases, too much power can cause wheels to spin and lose traction. Understanding when to use momentum such as driving in sand dunes and when to take it slow such as descending a rocky slope is the key to safe and efficient driving. Here certain Ford Ranger models offer Hill Descent Control and selectable driving modes to easily facilitate such tasks. Know how to recover your Ford Ranger Even the most skilled drivers can get stuck. Basic recovery skills and equipment are essential. These includes knowing how to use a recovery strap, and where to find your recovery points. Every Ford Ranger has a recovery point, and certain models have dual recovery points. Never go off-roading alone; having another vehicle nearby can be a lifeline in tricky situations. ALSO READ: Easy-going Ford Ranger XLT the perfect camping companion Top tips for a safe and enjoyable off-road experience Before you hit the trails, here are some essential tips to help you stay safe, protect the environment and make the most of your journey. Tyre pressure matters: Adjusting your tyre pressure can significantly improve traction. Lowering it slightly when driving on sand or rocky surfaces increases the tyre's contact patch, enhancing grip. Just remember to inflate them again before returning to the road. Pack smart: Always carry basic recovery gear (snatch strap, shackles, spade), a first-aid kit, air compressor, and enough water and food. A GPS, maps and a reliable communication device (like a satellite phone or two-way radio) are also highly recommended, especially in remote areas. Tread lightly: Respect the environment. Stay on designated trails to avoid damaging sensitive ecosystems and always leave a place as you found it. Join a community: Off-road clubs, like the Ford Adventure Club and forums are great places to learn, share experiences and find adventure companions. They also host regular training days and events to help drivers improve their skills in a safe and supportive environment. ALSO READ: Even without a fancy badge, Ford Ranger XLT is a lot of bakkie Ford adventure club For customers purchasing new Ford 4×4 vehicles, the Ford Adventure Club offers complimentary level 1 training. This course is included as part of the vehicle purchase and is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. The training is specifically designed for owners of Ford Ranger and Ford Everest 4×4 vehicles, as well as the Raptor.
Mail & Guardian
03-06-2025
- Automotive
- Mail & Guardian
Ford Everest Wildtrak: Brawny and powerful with a touch of luxury — but it's thirsty
Big and beautiful: The Ford Everest Wildtrak combines rugged and sporty elements to make it a very attractive car. In May 2023, when Ford released the next-generation Everest, it added a Wildtrak derivative to the Everest line-up for the first time. The Wildtrak was placed above the Sport and just below the Titanium variants. It was meant to capture the dynamic flair of the Wildtrak series that has been so popular in the Ranger bakkie over the years. The arrival of the Wildtrak variant also saw Ford give it some unique design features. The front is painted in a bolder grey and this is also applied to the bumper, which is exclusive to the Wildtrak. While this does add more dynamism to the styling of the vehicle, the C-clamp headlights, the raised roof rails and the side step still make it clear that this is a huge vehicle and not for the faint-hearted. In true Ford fashion, everything on the body of the vehicle feels solid. Visually, the Everest Wildtrak gives off exactly what Ford wants it to, and customers have the option of 20-inch alloy wheels or 18-inch all-terrain tyres, should they want to venture off-road often. The interior combines rugged, sporty and luxurious elements. The steering wheel, seats and gear lever maintain that solid, brawny feel but the centre console, the infotainment system, the dashboard with its soft-touch materials and the airconditioner vents get a touch of luxury. The Wildtrak gets contrasting yellow stitching on the dashboard, door trims, steering wheel, gear lever and on the seats, which adds to the sporty atmosphere of the interior. I especially love how Ford has integrated the 12-inch portrait infotainment screen into the cabin. On many vehicles, it protrudes, but Ford has stashed it neatly in the dashboard. Another really cool element is the hidden door handles which are positioned inside the armrest on the doors and need to be pressed to open them. This was especially helpful when travelling with my toddler — he could not find the handles, so there was no need for a child lock. The interior of the Ford Everest Wildtrak. Space will never be an issue with this vehicle. It is huge. Front and back passengers get a ton of head and legroom and there is a third row of seats, which provides sufficient room for children, but takes away from the large boot space. With its 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel engine that delivers 184kW of power and 600Nm of torque the Everest Wildtrak does not lack power. At times, I wished that the engine was slightly more refined, but then I realised that Ford does offer the Everest in a 2-litre bi-turbo with the XLT and Sport variants. While the drive is exceptional due to its all-wheel-drive capabilities (and there's no real wind noise), the engine is a touch noisy, but then again, it is a V6. Road imperfections are almost non-existent and the 10-speed automatic transmission gives the vehicle seamless gear changes with very little drag on the engine. One thing that impressed me is that, although this vehicle thrives on its rugged nature, it doesn't feel particularly bulky. Because you sit in such an elevated position, you always know that you are driving a huge vehicle, and the engine noise will remind you of that too, but the drive itself is extremely smooth and comfortable. Its large torque figure means that towing with this vehicle will be relatively comfortable. I feel the 2.0 litre bi-turbo variants are sufficient for the Everest and the 3.0 litre V6 on the Wildtrak and Titanium models are just superb flexes from Ford. However, it also makes the vehicle a tad thirsty. Ford claims 8.5 litres/100km. I managed around 10 litres/100km but if you are doing extensive off-roading, you might find that figure moves up to around 12 litres/100km. The Everest Wildtrak can do the extensive off-roading when you want it to. Based on the driving conditions, 4H (for four-wheel drive high-range) can be selected by simply pushing a button, to improve grip and control on loose surfaces, or low-range 4L, for steep or rocky tracks and deep sand, where low-speed control is required. There's also a 2H mode which engages rear-wheel drive only. The Everest Wildtrak has a bunch of drive modes including Normal, Eco, Tow/Haul, Slippery, Mud & Ruts and Sand. The vehicle comes standard with safety features such as adaptive cruise control with stop and go and lane centring; blind-spot monitoring with trailer coverage; cross traffic alert; evasive steer assist; a lane-keeping system with road-edge detection; pre-collision assist; reverse brake assist and a tyre-pressure monitoring system. The 360-degree camera with park assist is an optional extra. The Everest Wildtrak is that muscular friend in the group that can do everything. Even though it sits as the mid-range model below the Titanium, Ford has put a lot of effort into the product and given it its own identity. It makes me question why anyone would go for the Titanium, and pay more, when the Everest Wildtrak has everything you need. It comes in at a price of R1 084 000. However, if you feel the V6 is too much for you, the XLT starts from R832 400 and the Sport starts from R918 500. The range-topping Titanium will set you back R1 146 500. All models come with a four-year/120 000km warranty, four-year/unlimited distance roadside assistance and a five-year/unlimited distance corrosion warranty.
The Citizen
01-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Citizen
Leisure Wheels tests Ford Everest Sport 4×4: Perfect balance between rugged and refined
The Ford Everest Sport 4×4 walks the line between rugged and refined with impressive composure. Now two months into its time as the Leisure Wheels long-term test vehicle, the seven-seat, ladder-frame SUV has been tasked with more city driving than open-road exploration, and it has responded with grace. Cederberg Trails to Urban Daily Duties When […] The Ford Everest Sport 4×4 walks the line between rugged and refined with impressive composure. Now two months into its time as the Leisure Wheels long-term test vehicle, the seven-seat, ladder-frame SUV has been tasked with more city driving than open-road exploration, and it has responded with grace. Cederberg trails to urban daily duties When we received the Everest Sport to test, we had a solid month of driving lined up, including an Easter weekend in the Cederberg. The Sport variant hits a sweet spot for adventure-minded buyers who are happy to forgo the luxury trimmings of the Wildtrak or Platinum, but still want serious off-road capability. While the Sport doesn't include Ford's '4A' automatic all-wheel-drive mode (available in the higher-spec trims), it does offer selectable four-wheel high and low modes via the rotary dial next to the gear shifter. An electronic rear differential adds confidence for trickier trails. We've yet to take the Everest Sport into technical 4×4 territory, but the gravel roads of the Cederberg proved a good test of its light off-road ability and comfort. Fully loaded with passengers and camping gear, the SUV handled the terrain with ease. The suspension absorbed dirt road imperfections well, and the light all-terrain tyres delivered stable performance over corrugations and loose gravel. Related: Ford Everest Sport 4×4: Long Termer Introduction – Leisure Wheels Real-World Fuel Consumption One of the 2025 Everest Sport's highlights remains its drivetrain: the smooth, 10-speed automatic paired with Ford's familiar 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel. Last month, fuel consumption averaged 9.2L/100km. This month, largely limited to short city trips and uphill commutes in Cape Town, we're sitting at 10.8L/100km. While that's up, it's still respectable for a vehicle of this size and weight. Ford claims a combined fuel economy of 7.5L/100km, which we'll aim to test more accurately with some longer highway trips scheduled next month. Refined, Understated Design Two months in, I remain a fan of the Everest Sport's appearance. Finished in Aluminium Metallic with subtle black 'Sport' detailing, it strikes a clean yet assertive look. If you want to stand out a bit more, 'Blue Lightning' is the boldest option in an otherwise grey, black, white, and bronze-inspired colour palette. Three Highlights of the Ford Everest Sport 4×4 Even beyond the capable drivetrain and composed ride, there are a few standout details that make this SUV a strong daily driver. Quick-Access Lane Departure Control Being able to turn off the lane-departure prevention with a quick double click of one's left thumb on the steering wheel is such a pleasure. Many vehicles have overly-aggressive lane-assist safety features, which you have to dig around in the central infotainment system or digital display behind the steering wheel to turn off. Being able to do it on the fly is a massive bonus. Refinement and Responsiveness The sport's well-tuned suspension and responsive drivetrain make it an awesome daily driver, and it transfers this on-road elegance to off-road conditions too. Along with the drivetrain, the pedals are responsive and well-balanced, never lagging on acceleration nor too sensitive in stopping. The steering remains composed and precise for a vehicle of nearly five meters long. Well-Mannered Safety Features While some modern SUVs overwhelm drivers with overly sensitive warnings and interventions, the Everest Sport's safety features are intuitive and restrained. From blind spot monitoring to motion sensors and lane assist, everything works cohesively without being intrusive. 2025 Ford Everest Sport 4×4 – At a Glance Price: R1,109,500 (Recommended Retail Price) Engine: 2.0-litre Bi-Turbo Diesel, four-cylinder Power: 154 kW @ 3,750 r/min Torque: 500 N·m @ 1,750–2,500 r/min Transmission: 10-speed automatic Driven Wheels: Full-time four-wheel drive with selectable drive modes Fuel Efficiency: 7.5 L/100 km (claimed) Wheels: 20″ Black Alloy Wheels Key Features: Wireless Charging, Rear View Camera, 12-inch Touchscreen Display Service Plan: Standard 6 years / 90,000 km; Optional extension up to 8 years / 165,000 km Click here and browse thousands of new and used vehicles here with CARmag! View this post on Instagram A post shared by Oliver Keohane (@oliverkeohane_) The post Ford Everest Sport 4×4: Long termer update – Leisure Wheels appeared first on CAR Magazine.
